Can I use frozen cauliflower florets instead of fresh?

Frozen cauliflower releases more moisture, which makes it harder to get that crispy exterior. I don't recommend using frozen cauliflower in this recipe.

What air fryer setting and cook time should I use for cauliflower tacos?

Preheat your air fryer to 370°F. Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil and seasonings just as you would for oven roasting. Cook in a single layer (you will need to work in batches) for 9 to 11 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even browning. The exact cook time varies by air fryer model. Tip: Don't overcrowd the basket. Giving the cauliflower space allows hot air to circulate, which is what creates that crispy texture. Two smaller batches will always beat one crowded batch.

Cauliflower Tacos with Yum Yum Sauce

Cauliflower Tacos | Easy Cauliflower Tacos

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4.6 from 20 reviews

These crispy cauliflower tacos with breaded cauliflower, refried beans, and creamy Yum Yum sauce are all about bold flavor and satisfying texture.

Author: Sonja
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Mexican Inspired

Ingredients

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1 recipe Crispy Breaded Cauliflower
15-ounce can vegetarian refried beans (or homemade refried black beans)
1/2 teaspoon cumin
2 cups red cabbage, shredded
2 limes (1 for the cabbage & 1 to serve)
8 corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Yum Yum Sauce

1 cup mayonnaise (vegan if desired)
1 tablespoon melted butter (use coconut oil for vegan)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon maple syrup
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons water

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Instructions

Make the Crispy Breaded Cauliflower (about 40 minutes total; use the remaining time to complete the steps below.)
If using purchased refried beans, taste and if needed, mix with 1/2 teaspoon cumin and/or a pinch or two kosher salt. (Or, you can make our Supremely Simple Refried Black Beans but for this recipe we preferred using storebought so we could focus on the cauliflower!)
Thinly slice the cabbage, enough for 2 cups. Mix it with 2 tablespoons lime juice and a pinch or two of salt. Allow it to stand at room temperature until serving.
Make the Yum Yum Sauce: mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
Warm the tortillas, or char them by placing them on grates above an open gas flame on medium heat for a few seconds per side, flipping with tongs, until they are slightly blackened and warm.
Chop the cilantro for a garnish.
To serve, place refried beans in a tortilla, top with cabbage, breaded cauliflower, Yum Yum sauce, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges to spritz prior to serving. (If you have leftover cauliflower, you can reheat them in a 350F oven for 10 minutes, flipping once.)

Notes

Air fryer method: Follow the FAQ instructions above for air fryer cook time and settings.

Sauce variations: For vegan cauliflower tacos, use vegan mayo in the Yum Yum sauce. Chipotle sauce is another great dairy-free option.

Make ahead: The cauliflower can be breaded and roasted up to 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven before serving.

Toppings bar: Set out bowls of different toppings like sliced avocado, pickled red onions, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and extra lime wedges for a build-your-own taco night.

Find it online: https://www.acouplecooks.com/crispy-cauliflower-tacos/