Air Fryer Tandoori Cauliflower

Air Fryer Tandoori Cauliflower makes a fantastic appetizer or side dish. This Tandoori Gobi Tikka is flavorful, golden, and crispy, roasted to perfection in the air fryer. It’s an easy, healthy cauliflower recipe that the whole family will adore!

Not only is this vegetarian meal packed with flavor but it can also be cooked in the air fryer in less than 10 minutes!

If you love easy cauliflower recipes in the air fryer, try my recipe for Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Cauliflower, Air Fryer Cauliflower Fritters, or Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower .

If you tried my Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken recipe, you would love this Tandoori Gobi version.

What is Tandoori Cauliflower?

Tandoori cauliflower, also known as Tandoori Gobi, is a flavorful vegetarian dish made from cauliflower marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture and then cooked. The marinade typically includes ingredients like yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala, which infuse the cauliflower with rich, aromatic flavors.

The marinated cauliflower can be roasted in an oven, cooked in an air fryer, or traditionally grilled, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior and tender interior. This dish is popular for its vibrant spices and is often served as an appetizer or side dish in Indian cuisine. It’s also a great option for those following gluten-free or low-carb diets.

This is a perfect side dish for any of your dinners; I love this as a vegetarian starter or a quick appetizer!

Pair with my recipe for Air Fryer Curry Tofu or Instant Pot Jasmine Rice, the air fryer is perfect!

Ingredients Needed

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need:

Remember the step-by-step instructions are below in the printable recipe card at the end of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Cauliflower Florets: Use a large head of cauliflower or cauliflower florets
• Oil: Use any high-heat oil, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil
• Greek Yogurt: You can also use regular yogurt that has been strained
• Seasonings and Spices: Gram Flour, Ginger Paste, Garlic Paste, Kosher Salt, Garam Masala, Red Chili Powder, Ground Turmeric, Lime Juice, and Ground Cumin, Turmeric Powder

How To Make Air Fryer Tandoori Cauliflower

Here are the step-by-step instructions:

Step One: Prepare the Spice Mix. Add the marinade ingredients to a small bowl and set aside.

Step Two: Prepare The Cauliflower Using a sharp knife, cut your cauliflower into medium size florets, and place them into a large bowl.

Step Three: Marinate Cauliflower. Add the marinate to the cauliflower florets and toss well to coat. Cover and marinate for 20 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step Four: Air Fry Place the cauliflower into the air fryer basket in a single layer, set the air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F, and set the cook time for 15-18 minutes, frequently shaking during the cooking process.

Step Five: Serving Serve with lemon juice, curry powder, red chili powder, soy sauce, or fresh lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Tandoori Cauliflower Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Cauliflower: Opt for fresh cauliflower for the best texture and flavor. Ensure the florets are of similar size for even cooking.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Coat Evenly: Make sure to coat the cauliflower florets thoroughly with the marinade to get consistent flavor and color.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
• Shake or Flip: Shake the air fryer basket or flip the cauliflower halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings in the marinade to suit your taste preferences.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the Tandoori Cauliflower right after cooking for the best crispy texture.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor: Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice before serving to enhance the flavors.

Air Fryer Tandoori Cauliflower Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.

How long does it take to cook Tandoori Cauliflower in the air fryer? Cooking time usually ranges from 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on the size of the cauliflower florets and the air fryer model.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the cauliflower and marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the cauliflower just before serving for the best results.

What can I serve with Tandoori Cauliflower? Tandoori Cauliflower pairs well with naan, rice, yogurt sauce, or as a side to other Indian dishes. It’s also great as a stand-alone appetizer.

Can I use a different type of flour instead of gram flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free alternative if you prefer. Gram flour adds a unique texture and flavor, but substitutions can work as well.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore some of the crispiness.

Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of the air fryer? Yes, you can bake the Tandoori Cauliflower in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed? You can adjust the spice mix based on what you have available. Cumin, coriander, and paprika can be good substitutes if you’re missing some ingredients.

Recipe Variations Tandoori Cauliflower Air Fryer Recipe

Tandoori Cauliflower Tikka Skewers: To transform Air Fryer Tandoori Cauliflower into Tandoori Cauliflower Tikka Skewers, first, cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in a spiced yogurt mixture. Thread the marinated cauliflower onto skewers, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Cook the skewers in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower
• Air Fryer Broccoli
• Air Fryer Crispy Cauliflower Bites
• Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
• Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings

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