Crunchy popcorn cauliflower

Discover the perfect game-day snack with our Crunchy Popcorn Cauliflower! This easy recipe features crispy, golden-brown cauliflower bites coated in a savory mixture of bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, paprika, and fresh thyme, delivering a deliciously addictive, healthy alternative to traditional popcorn. Ready to delight your taste buds with every crunch!

  • 09 Apr 2025
  • Cook time 25 min
  • Prep time 10 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 6 Ingredients

Crunchy popcorn cauliflower

Crunchy popcorn cauliflower is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional popcorn chicken. This recipe transforms a simple cauliflower into a crispy, flavor-packed snack or appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh thyme, grated parmesan cheese, and paprika adds a gourmet touch to this easy-to-make dish.

Ingredients:

1 cauliflower
900g
1 egg
50g
1 cup bread crumbs
90g
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
40g
1 tsp paprika
5g
1 tbsp fresh thyme
16g

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Clean and dry the cauliflower. Cut it into small, bite-sized florets, resembling popcorn.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a medium bowl, crack the egg and beat it well using a fork or whisk until fully combined. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Breading Mixture:
- In another larger bowl, combine the bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, paprika, and fresh thyme. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
5. Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Then, transfer the egg-coated floret into the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs and cheese to the cauliflower.
- Place the coated cauliflower florets onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching to allow for even cooking.
6. Bake the Cauliflower:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. You may want to flip the florets halfway through the baking time for even browning.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the crispy cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips:

- Ensure the cauliflower florets are evenly sized for uniform cooking.

- If you prefer a spicier version, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs.

- Serve immediately after baking to retain maximum crunchiness.

- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or sriracha mayo for an added flavor boost.

With just a handful of ingredients and some simple preparation, you can whip up this crunchy popcorn cauliflower that is sure to impress. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it also makes a great healthy snack or appetizer. Enjoy the crispy texture and rich flavors with your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable treat!

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size280 grams
Energy
Calories 210kcal11%
Protein
Protein 12g8%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 30g8%
Fiber 6g17%
Sugar 6g6%
Fat
Fat 6g7%
Saturated 2.54g8%
Cholesterol 60mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 80ug8%
Choline 150mg27%
Vitamin B1 0.35mg29%
Vitamin B2 0.33mg25%
Vitamin B3 2.77mg17%
Vitamin B6 0.48mg28%
Vitamin B9 160ug41%
Vitamin B12 0.34ug14%
Vitamin C 110mg121%
Vitamin E 0.74mg5%
Vitamin K 36ug31%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 200mg16%
Copper, Cu 0.16mg18%
Iron, Fe 2.55mg23%
Magnesium, Mg 50mg12%
Phosphorus, P 230mg18%
Potassium, K 800mg24%
Selenium, Se 14ug26%
Sodium, Na 420mg28%
Zinc, Zn 1.58mg14%
Water
Water 220g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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