Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Tots
User Reviews
5
Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Tots
Description
Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Tots combine finely grated and cooked cauliflower with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, cornmeal, and a blend of dry spices including mustard powder, garlic, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. The cauliflower is first salted and microwaved while wrapped in a towel, then squeezed thoroughly to remove excess moisture; this step is crucial to achieving a firm texture. The mixture is portioned and baked at 425°F until golden and crispy on the outside, while retaining a tender inside.
The sharpness of cheddar and smoky bacon add depth to the mild cauliflower base, while the seasonings provide subtle heat and complexity. Serving these tots warm makes a flavorful side for meals or a tasty snack. They can also be cooked in an air fryer for convenience.
When preparing, ensure you squeeze the cauliflower thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Baking on parchment-lined trays spaced apart allows even cooking and crispy edges. This recipe was adapted from 'The Ultimate Guide to Vegetable Side Dishes' by Rebecca Lindamood.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cauliflower florets
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt divided
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese shredded, approx 2 cups, sharp
- 12 lices Bacon cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup cornmeal
- 2 egg
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Using a grater, grate the florets until they are the size of cooked rice grains. Put the cauliflower into a bowl that is lined with a clean kitchen towel.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the cauliflower and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. Fold the towel ends over the top of the bowl and microwave it for 2 minutes.
- Remove from the microwave and unfold the towel letting it cool down until it is comfortable to handle. Once cool, gather up the towel ends and twist while squeezing the cooked cauliflower to remove as much moisture as possible.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line two half-sheet pans with parchment paper.
- Empty any liquid that remains in the bowl and add the cooked cauliflower into it, add the remaining ingredients and stir vigorously until fully combined.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture and place 1 ½ inches apart on the prepared pan to allow room for spreading. Gently pat the tots to flatten slightly.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top with a dark brown on the bottom.
- Let the tots stand for 2 minutes on the pan before serving.
Notes
- Ensure to squeeze the cooked cauliflower very dry to achieve a good texture for the tots.
- You can cook the tots in an air fryer at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping after 6 minutes for even crisping.
- Baking on parchment paper spaced 1 ½ inches apart helps tots bake evenly without sticking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 635 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 635 | 32% |
| Carbohydrates | 21g | 7% |
| Protein | 31g | 62% |
| Fat | 49g | 75% |
| Saturated Fat | 22g | 110% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 185mg | 62% |
| Sodium | 1761mg | 73% |
| Potassium | 943mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 6g | 24% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 816IU | 16% |
| Vitamin C | 110mg | 122% |
| Calcium | 478mg | 48% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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