Crispy Cauliflower Pancakes

These crispy cauliflower pancakes are golden and flavorful with fresh herbs and garlic, cooked in an air fryer for a light and satisfying texture. They are a perfect option when you want something wholesome and easy to prepare with minimal oil.

I first made these pancakes when I wanted a healthier snack option, and they quickly became a favorite in my household for their crispy edges and tender centers.

Ingredients

• One small cauliflower about 500 grams cut into florets: provides a tender vegetable base rich in nutrients
• Breadcrumbs one hundred grams: help bind the mixture and add a crunchy texture
• Two large eggs: act as a natural binder for the pancakes
• Garlic powder one teaspoon: adds a subtle aromatic flavor
• Onion powder one teaspoon: enhances savory depth
• Salt to taste: balances the flavors naturally
• Black pepper to taste: adds mild heat and complexity
• Two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley: bring a fresh herbal note
• One tablespoon olive oil for spraying: helps achieve crispiness during air frying

Step by Step Instructions

Wash and Steam Cauliflower:

Wash the cauliflower thoroughly under cold running water then cut into uniform florets. Steam the florets for five to seven minutes until tender but not mushy. Allow them to cool completely to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.

Mash Cauliflower:

Transfer the cooled cauliflower to a large bowl and mash using a fork or pulse in a food processor to achieve a coarse texture. Avoid overprocessing to maintain a pleasant bite.

Combine Ingredients:

Add the breadcrumbs eggs garlic powder onion powder salt black pepper and parsley to the mashed cauliflower. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined and uniform in texture.

Form Pancakes:

Shape the mixture into small pancakes approximately one to two centimeters thick. Place them on a plate to prepare for cooking.

Preheat Air Fryer and Prepare Patties:

Preheat your air fryer to two hundred degrees Celsius or four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray both sides of each pancake with olive oil to encourage browning and crispiness.

Cook Pancakes:

Arrange the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for ten to twelve minutes flipping halfway through. Look for a golden color and crisp texture before removing.

Serve:

Remove the pancakes from the air fryer and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with yogurt garlic sauce or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.

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My favorite part is the fresh parsley which adds a lively brightness to every bite. I remember making these for a weekend brunch and watching everyone enjoy the crispy edges with delight.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer to restore their crispiness without drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

For gluten free diets use gluten free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead of traditional breadcrumbs. If you prefer vegan options replace eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer but texture may vary slightly.

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes are delicious on their own or served alongside a dollop of herbed yogurt garlic sauce or a fresh green salad. They also make great sandwich fillers or party appetizers.

Cultural Context

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable embraced worldwide in many cuisines for its mild flavor and ability to absorb spices. Using an air fryer brings a modern twist offering a healthier alternative to frying without sacrificing texture.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I get a crispy texture without frying in oil?

Air frying with a light spray of olive oil crisps the pancakes evenly without deep frying, keeping them light and healthy.

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower for this dish?

Fresh cauliflower is best for texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid soggy pancakes.

→ What is the best way to mash the cauliflower?

Using a fork yields a chunkier texture, while a food processor creates a finer mash—choose based on your preferred consistency.

→ How can I store leftovers for later use?

Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer to restore crispness.

→ What can I serve alongside these cauliflower pancakes?

They pair well with garlic sauce, yogurt, or a fresh salad to complement the savory flavors.