Buffalo Cauliflower Bites (Vegan)

1. Heat the Oil

Pour 2 quarts of vegetable or peanut oil into a large wok, Dutch oven, or deep fryer. Begin heating the oil to 350°F.

2. Prepare the Batter

Combine 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in a mixing bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients together until you have a homogenous mixture. Then, add 1/2 cup cold water and 1/2 cup vodka to the bowl and whisk again. The batter should have the consistency of thin paint and fall in thin ribbons from the whisk. If it’s too thick, add a bit more water, up to 2 tablespoons.

3. Fry the Cauliflower

Add the cauliflower florets to the batter. Be sure to let any excess batter drip off before placing the florets into the hot oil. Fry the cauliflower for about 6 minutes per batch, using a metal spider or slotted spatula to handle them. You'll know they are done when they are golden brown and crisp all over. Transfer the fried cauliflower to a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt while they are still warm.

4. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup hot sauce, 1 minced medium clove of garlic, and 1 tablespoon of oil from the fryer. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

5. Toss and Serve

When all the cauliflower is fried and seasoned, toss the pieces in the buffalo sauce until they are evenly coated. Serve the Buffalo Cauliflower Bites immediately, garnished with celery leaves if you like.