Cauliflower 65 is a popular South Indian appetizer made by deep-frying marinated cauliflower florets until golden and crispy. Inspired by the famous Chicken 65, this vegetarian version features a bold blend of spices like red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and ginger-garlic paste. After frying, the florets are tossed in a tempering of curry leaves, green chilies, and sauces for extra flavor. Cauliflower 65 is loved for its crunchy texture and spicy kick, making it...
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Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
Add 3/4 litre of water to a pot and boil it along with a little salt.
Gently drop the cauliflower florets into the boiling water and blanch them for 4-5 minutes.
Turn off the flame, strain the cauliflower, and set it aside.
In a bowl, mix besan flour, corn flour, chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, ginger garlic paste, and salt.
Gradually add water to the mixture to make a batter of medium consistency.
Heat enough oil for deep frying.
Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter and deep fry them until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Heat a pan with 1/2 tsp oil and add tomato ketchup, chilli sauce, soya sauce, and Kashmiri chilli powder. Mix well.
Add the fried cauliflower florets to the pan and toss them nicely.
Finally, add fried curry leaves and green chilli. Mix well and turn off the flame.
Ensure the batter is of medium consistency; too thick or too runny will affect the coating.
Blanching the cauliflower helps it cook evenly and retain its texture.
Fry the cauliflower in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even cooking.
Adjust the spice levels to your preference by increasing or decreasing the chilli powders.
Serve hot for the best crunchy texture and flavor.
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but ensure it is thawed and blanched before proceeding with the recipe.
What can I serve Cauliflower 65 with?
Cauliflower 65 pairs well with chutneys like mint or tamarind chutney, or it can be served as a side dish with South Indian meals.
Can I bake or air-fry instead of deep-frying?
Yes, you can bake or air-fry the cauliflower for a healthier version, but the texture may differ slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it does not use any dairy or animal products.
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