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Crispy BBQ Beer Battered Cauliflower Nuggets

There is something inherently joyful about a casual gathering with friends—the laughter, the stories, and most importantly, the snacks. When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers, one dish consistently steals the spotlight in my kitchen: Crispy BBQ Beer Battered Cauliflower Nuggets.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Servings: 4 nuggets

Ingredients

  • For the Nuggets
  • 1 large head Cauliflower cut into florets
  • 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • a pinch Kosher Salt
  • 3/4 cup Beer or Sparkling Water choose your favorite brew
  • For the Sauce
  • 3/4 cup BBQ Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Dijon Mustard
  • 1/4 cup Honey
  • 1/4 cup Sour Cream Greek Yogurt, or Mayonnaise
  • 1/2 whole Lemon juice of
  • 1 tablespoon BBQ or Cajun Seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper as needed
  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper to taste

Instructions

  • How to Make Crispy BBQ Beer Battered Cauliflower Nuggets
  • In a large bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, baking powder, and a pinch of kosher salt. Pour in the beer (or sparkling water) and mix gently until just combined. Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until they’re evenly coated.
  • Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the battered cauliflower in batches. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil and let them drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
  • Preheat your oven to 450°F. Lightly rub a baking sheet with olive oil. Spread the cauliflower evenly onto the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • While the nuggets are cooking, prepare the honey mustard sauce. In a glass jar, mix together all sauce ingredients—BBQ sauce, dijon mustard, honey, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, BBQ or Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Shake or whisk until smooth.
  • Once cooked, serve your crispy cauliflower nuggets drizzled with BBQ sauce or alongside the honey mustard for dipping.