Crispy Cauliflower Waffle Bites with Spicy Garlic Mayo Sauce

Cauliflower has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! Its versatility and ability to absorb flavors make it a perfect base for countless dishes. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe for Crispy Cauliflower Waffle Bites served with a Spicy Garlic Mayo Sauce. These bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Waffle Bites:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option)
• 1/2 cup almond flour (or regular flour)
• 2 large eggs (flax eggs for a vegan option)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the waffle maker

For the Spicy Garlic Mayo Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free option)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Steam the Cauliflower: Begin by steaming the cauliflower florets until they are tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool slightly.
2. Rice the Cauliflower: After cooling, use a food processor to pulse the cauliflower florets until they resemble rice. Make sure not to over-process; you want a fine texture without turning it into mush.

Step 2: Make the Waffle Batter

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the riced cauliflower with shredded cheese, almond flour, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. The mixture should hold together but not be too wet.
2. Preheat the Waffle Maker: Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and lightly spray or brush it with oil.

Step 3: Cook the Waffle Bites

1. Scoop and Cook: Scoop about 1/4 cup of the cauliflower mixture and place it in the center of the waffle maker. Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
2. Keep Warm: Place the cooked waffle bites on a wire rack to keep them crisp while you finish cooking the rest.

Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Garlic Mayo Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, sriracha, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or less sriracha.
2. Chill: For the best flavor, let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Waffle Bites: Arrange the crispy cauliflower waffle bites on a serving platter.
2. Garnish: Drizzle the spicy garlic mayo sauce over the bites or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Cooking Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cauliflower mix a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good stir before cooking.
• Vegan Options: For a vegan-friendly recipe, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use vegan cheese and mayo.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the batter, such as Italian seasoning or chili flakes for extra heat.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve these crispy bites with a refreshing side salad or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. A chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon complements the dish perfectly, balancing the spice of the garlic mayo.

Photography Ideas

Capture the golden-brown crispiness of the waffle bites on a rustic wooden board, drizzled with the spicy mayo, and surrounded by fresh herbs. Close-up shots can showcase the textures and details, enticing viewers to want to try the recipe themselves.

Further Reading

For more delicious cauliflower recipes, check out Cauliflower Pizza Crust and Buffalo Cauliflower Bites.

By trying out these Crispy Cauliflower Waffle Bites with Spicy Garlic Mayo Sauce, you’re not only indulging in a tasty treat but also embracing a healthier alternative. Experiment with the flavors, share your creations, and don’t forget to subscribe for more gourmet recipes!