Air Fryer BBQ Cauliflower Bites

Crispy air-fried cauliflower bites coated in Kursat’s South African BBQ Paste, creating a sticky, smoky glaze with deep sweet-spiced flavour. The paste is loosened with a little water to help it coat evenly, then caramelises in the air fryer for a rich, slightly charred finish. These bites are bold, moreish, and perfect as a snack, side, or sharing plate. Served with a cooling dip, they balance smoky heat with freshness and crunch.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

For the batter:
100g plain flour
1 tbsp cornflour
½ tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
120–150ml cold water (adjust for thick coating batter)

For the BBQ glaze:
3 tbsp Kursat’s South African BBQ Paste
2–3 tbsp water

To cook:
1 tbsp neutral oil (optional, for extra crisping in air fryer)

To serve:
Fresh parsley or coriander
Garlic mayo, yoghurt dip, or vegan mayo

Method

Preheat the air fryer to 190°C.

In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornflour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add cold water until you have a smooth, thick batter that coats the back of a spoon.

Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Let excess drip off.

Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Lightly spray or brush with oil if using.

Air fry for 10–12 minutes until the batter is set and lightly crisp, shaking halfway through.

Meanwhile, mix Kursat’s South African BBQ Paste with 2–3 tbsp water until smooth and pourable.

Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and toss gently in the loosened BBQ sauce until evenly coated.

Return to the air fryer and cook for a further 4–6 minutes at 200°C until sticky, caramelised, and crisp at the edges.

Serve hot, finished with fresh herbs and your choice of dip.