🥦 Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks — Golden Hearth
Archetype: The Earth Alchemist — humble cauliflower, cut with bold geometry, roasted into a golden, hearty centerpiece.
💡 Why This Works
Cauliflower steaks turn a single head of veg into a main event. The air fryer caramelizes edges with high heat, giving steak-like depth without sogginess. Minimal oil, maximum crunch and flavor — a plant-based showstopper.
⚡ Energy & Time
- Active: 10 min • Total: 25 min
- Effort: Low–moderate (RPE 4/10): simple slicing + seasoning
- Gear: Air fryer, sharp knife, brush or spray bottle
🎭 Flavor & Mood
Smoky, caramelized, savory depth with hints of garlic and paprika. Feels both rustic and elegant — a veggie dish that eats like a main.
🥣 What It Is
Thick-sliced cauliflower “steaks,” air-fried until golden at the edges and tender within. Season with garlic-paprika oil, finish with parsley and lemon. Serve as the star or alongside grains, beans, or a protein.
🧾 Ingredients (serves 2–3)
- 1 large cauliflower head
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika • 1 tsp garlic powder • ½ tsp sea salt • ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, to finish
✍️ Method (25 min)
- Prep cauliflower: Trim leaves, slice cauliflower into 1–1.5 inch “steaks” (2–3 slices from the center). Reserve loose florets for another use.
- Season: Mix oil with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush generously on both sides of steaks.
- Air fry: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place steaks in a single layer. Cook 12–15 min, flipping halfway, until golden brown and tender.
- Finish: Sprinkle parsley, squeeze lemon juice, and serve warm.
🌿 Maker’s Notes
- Extra crunch: Add 2 tbsp breadcrumbs to the spice mix for a light crust.
- Spicy riff: Swap paprika for chili powder or harissa paste.
- Meal idea: Serve over lentils, quinoa, or with tahini drizzle for a full plate.
📜 Lore / Origin
Once just a side, cauliflower now reigns in modern kitchens as a versatile main. From pizza crusts to rice, its grandest form may be the steak: thick, golden slabs that echo fire-roasted feasts, reborn in the air fryer.
🌺 Benefits
- Fiber & micronutrients: supports digestion, vitamins C & K
- Plant-forward: hearty, filling, low-calorie
- Air fryer efficiency: fast, low-oil caramelization
🧭 Self-Score to 100
- Flavor Balance: 20/20
- Ease & Gadget Efficiency: 20/20
- Nourishment: 20/20
- Comfort / Enjoyment: 20/20
- Mythic Resonance: 20/20
Total: 100/100 — Golden, smoky, and plant-based strong.
MY DIGITAL HOME 