Air Fryer Spicy Cauliflower Stir Fry
Introduction
This spicy cauliflower stir fry is a vibrant, healthy dish packed with bold flavors and crisp-tender veggies. Using the air fryer makes the cauliflower beautifully crispy without deep frying, while the stir fry sauce adds a delicious kick. It’s perfect as a side or a main served with rice or noodles—ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Cauliflower:
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder (for mild heat)
For the Stir Fry Sauce:
3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp sriracha or other chili sauce (adjust for heat preference)
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
Veggies to Add (optional):
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup snap peas or green beans
3 scallions, sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish
Equipment
Air fryer
Small bowl for sauce
Mixing bowl
Timing & Instructions
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Prep Cauliflower (5 minutes)
Cut cauliflower into bite-size florets.
Toss with olive or sesame oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Preheat Air Fryer (3 minutes)
Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
Air Fry Cauliflower (15 minutes)
Place cauliflower in air fryer basket in a single layer (do in batches if needed).
Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15 minutes, shaking basket halfway through for even crisping.
Prepare Stir Fry Sauce (while cauliflower cooks) (5 minutes)
Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
Quick Veggie Stir Fry (Optional, 5 minutes)
If adding other veggies, toss bell pepper and snap peas lightly with oil and air fry for 5 minutes at 380°F, shaking halfway.
Combine & Toss (2 minutes)
Transfer air-fried cauliflower (and other veggies if used) to a large bowl.
Pour stir fry sauce over and toss to coat evenly.
Serve
Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes for crispness.