I stumbled on creating this recipe a few weeks ago when heading to a friend’s house for dinner and they asked if I would bring an appetizer. I am always a huge fan of bringing veggies for any sort of dish because in my opinion, we can never have too many vegetables! I see vegetables, no matter how they are cooked, as nutrients for our cells that give us more qi (energy). These delectable bites keep the snacking fingers, eyes, taste buds and body happy. They are also such a fun way to mix up our appetizer or side veggie game.
Ingredients:
Whole medium/large head of organic cauliflower or pre-packed cauliflower florets
1 cup Italian bread crumbs (or gf bread crumbs of choice)
1 tablespoon whole wheat flour (you can skip this step, but it helps make the breading stick)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 eggs
Directions:
Pre-heat the oven to 400F. Prep a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and prep the cauliflower into small florets. Make sure they are well dried. Notice the interesting shapes of the cauliflower. Notice the smells and textures.
Combine all dry ingredients (breadcrumbs, seasoning, salt and cheese) in a medium bowl and evenly mix. Do you smell one spice stronger than the other? Notice if your mouth waters and craves a different type of spice—follow your instincts and add whatever you desire. Does this mixture create any memories or flashbacks for you?
Beat the eggs together in a small bowl. Look at the color of the eggs. Notice how the yoke and albumen (white part) of the egg mix.
Dip each floret into the egg mixture and lightly but evenly coat it.
Gently roll the eggy cauliflower into the breadcrumb mixture so that the cauliflower is evenly coated with crunch.
Place on the baking sheet. Repeat until each floret is complete.
Bake for 15 minutes on each side. Make sure to flip so that they are evenly crispy and slightly browned.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. I loved using tomato sauce or pesto.
Mindfully enjoy each bite—sensing the crunch, flavors, smells, sounds and how it feels in your body. Notice as you enjoy these delectable bites, do you fingers want more, your eyes, your mouth, your heart, boredom or your belly.