Description
These Cauliflower Tater Tots are a delicious, healthier twist on the classic potato tater tots, using cauliflower as the base. They are light, crispy, and perfect as a side dish or appetizer. Easily baked or air fried, these tots are gluten adaptable and can be made with a variety of flours, making them versatile for many dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Tater Tots
- 4 cups cauliflower florets (340g)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/3 cup flour (40g) (spelt, white, oat, gluten free all purpose, sorghum, or almond flour)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup fine breadcrumbs (30g) or almond flour
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Surface: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease your air fryer tray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Steam Cauliflower: Steam the cauliflower florets until they are fall-apart soft. Once steamed, drain thoroughly and set aside to cool completely.
- Preheat Oven or Air Fryer: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). If using an air fryer, heat it as close to this temperature as possible.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine baking powder, garlic powder, salt, flour, and dried oregano if using. This mix will add flavor and help bind the tots.
- Remove Excess Moisture: Place the cooled cauliflower in a clean dish towel or cheesecloth over a sink or bowl and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to avoid sogginess in the tots.
- Mash and Combine: Mash the cauliflower with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Stir in the spice and flour mixture. If the mixture is too dry to form, add a small amount of water gradually until it holds together.
- Shape and Coat: Form the mashed cauliflower mixture into tater tot shapes using your hands. Roll each tot in crushed fine breadcrumbs or almond flour to create a crispy coating.
- Cook the Tots: Place the shaped tots on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket. Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes or until lightly browned and crispy. If using an air fryer, cook for approximately 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even cooking.
- Serve: Serve the cauliflower tater tots hot as a tasty side dish or appetizer. They can be enjoyed plain or with your favorite toppings or dipping sauces.
- Storage: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to a covered container. Store in the refrigerator for up to five days and reheat before serving.
Notes
- You can use a variety of flours such as spelt, oat, almond, or gluten-free blends depending on your dietary needs.
- Removing excess moisture from the cauliflower is crucial for achieving crispy tots.
- These tots can be baked or air fried depending on your preference or available equipment.
- Optional oregano adds herby flavor but can be omitted if desired.
- For a gluten-free option, use almond flour both in the mixture and for coating instead of breadcrumbs.
- Serve with ketchup, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
