Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe – Quick Panch Phoron & Turmeric Snack

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe – Quick Panch Phoron & Turmeric Snack

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful snack. And honestly, this air fryer cauliflower has become a total staple in my kitchen. It’s so easy to whip up, and the combination of panch phoron and turmeric is just… magic! I first made this when I was craving something savory but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s been a hit ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s unbelievably quick – ready in under 30 minutes! The air fryer makes it wonderfully crispy without all the oil of deep frying. Plus, the panch phoron gives it such a unique and aromatic flavor that’s distinctly Indian. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy cauliflower, even if you think you don’t like it!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious air fryer cauliflower:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tablespoons oil (I prefer vegetable or canola)
• 2 tablespoons panch phoron
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec!

• Cauliflower: You’ll need about 1 medium-sized head. Don’t worry about perfectly uniform florets – a little variation is fine.
• Panch Phoron: This is the star of the show! It’s a whole spice blend originating from Eastern India (especially Bengal and Orissa). It literally translates to “five spices” and typically includes fenugreek, nigella, cumin, mustard, and fennel seeds. It adds a wonderfully complex flavor. You can usually find it at Indian grocery stores, or online.
• Turmeric: Not just for color! Turmeric has amazing health benefits and a lovely earthy flavor.
• Air Frying vs. Other Methods: I love using the air fryer because it gives you that crispy texture with significantly less oil than deep frying or even roasting. It’s also much faster than roasting! But don’t worry, I’ll cover baking as an alternative in the FAQs.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, give your cauliflower florets a good wash. Then, chop the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces and soak them in salted water for about 10 minutes. This helps to soften them up a little and get rid of any hidden critters.
2. Drain the florets really well and transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle with the oil, then sprinkle on the panch phoron, turmeric powder, and salt.
3. Now, give everything a really good mix! Make sure all the florets are nicely coated with the spices.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd it – you might need to work in batches.
6. Air fry for 14-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want them to be tender-crisp and golden brown.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the salted water soak! It really does make a difference in the texture.
• Shaking the basket halfway through is crucial for even crisping.
• If your air fryer tends to run hot, check on the cauliflower after 12 minutes.

Variations

• Spice Level Adjustment: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped green chili to the spice mix. My friend, Priya, loves adding a little red chili powder too!
• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
• Serving as a Side Dish for Festivals: This makes a fantastic side dish for festivals like Diwali or Holi. It’s a lighter alternative to some of the richer dishes.

Serving Suggestions

This air fryer cauliflower is so versatile!

• Serve it warm with a side of rice and dal for a complete meal.
• It’s also amazing as a snack on its own.
• I sometimes add it to salads for a bit of crunch and flavor.
• A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They won’t be as crispy when reheated, but still delicious! You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to try and crisp them up again.

FAQs

Is this recipe suitable for a beginner cook?

Absolutely! It’s super simple and straightforward. Even if you’ve never used an air fryer before, you’ll be fine.

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Frozen cauliflower releases more moisture, so you might need to air fry it for an extra 5-10 minutes. Make sure to pat it dry before adding the spices.

What is Panch Phoron and where can I find it?

Panch Phoron is a Bengali spice blend of five seeds – fenugreek, nigella, cumin, mustard, and fennel. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online retailers.

How do I adjust the cooking time for different air fryer models?

Air fryers can vary, so it’s always best to start with the recommended time and check for doneness. If it’s not crispy enough, add a few more minutes.

Can I bake this cauliflower instead of air frying?

Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the spiced cauliflower on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t be quite as crispy as air frying, but still delicious.