Deep Fried Buffalo Cauliflower Food

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER

Steps:

• For the fried cauliflower: Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot and salt generously. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Cook the cauliflower in the boiling water until al dente (check the texture), about 5 minutes once the water returns to a boil. Remove the cauliflower from the pot with a slotted spoon and transfer to the ice water bath to stop the cooking. Once the cauliflower has cooled, drain thoroughly. Once dry, transfer the cauliflower to a container and pour the buttermilk over the top. Refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.
• For the blue cheese fondue: Combine the blue cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, heavy cream, parsley, garlic, paprika and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Whisk to combine and season to taste.
• To fry the cauliflower: Pour enough oil into a deep, heavy pot to come 6 inches up the sides. Heat the oil until a deep-frying thermometer inserted in the oil reaches 350 degrees F. Meanwhile, combine the cornmeal, flour, cornstarch, spicy paprika, granulated garlic and onion, smoked paprika and 2 teaspoons salt in a shallow bowl.
• In batches, remove the cauliflower from the buttermilk, dredge in the cornmeal mixture and fry until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the fried cauliflower from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
• Combine the hot sauce and melted butter in a large bowl. Toss the fried cauliflower in the Buffalo sauce to coat. Serve with the blue cheese fondue.

BATTER DIPPED DEEP FRIED CAULIFLOWER

Steps:

• Preheat fryer oil to 375.
• Place the beaten eggs, milk and salt in a shallow bowl (or a large baggie).
• In a separate shallow bowl (or another large baggie), mix together flour, cheese, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne, and pepper.
• Place flowerets into egg mixture and toss (or shake baggie) to coat well.
• Remove and place into flour mixture and toss (or shake baggie) to coat well.
• Fry in batches for 4 - 6 minutes or until golden brown.
• Drain on paper towels and lightly salt.
• *Serve w/ dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch or blue cheese.

CAULIFLOWER TEMPURA

Steps:

• Cook the cauliflower in boiling water for 2 mins. Tip into a colander, rinse under the cold tap, drain well and set aside.
• Put the flour in a large bowl with a pinch of salt. Whisk the egg yolks and 175ml iced water together, then whisk into the flour with the oil to make a smooth batter. In a separate, clean bowl whisk the egg whites until stiff, then fold into the batter.
• Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large wok to 190C. Coat some of the cauliflower in the batter then use a slotted spoon to carefully lift into the hot oil. Deep-fry the cauliflower for 2-3 mins until golden and puffy. Drain on kitchen towel and continue with the rest in batches. Sprinkle the cauliflower with salt and serve with a bowl of aïoli or mayonnaise.