If you’re craving the crispy, golden crunch of traditional Southern-Style Fried Chicken or looking for a flavorful Southern-Style Fried Cauliflower (meat-free alternative) that still satisfies, this recipe is for you! Whichever you’ve come looking for based on your need or preferences, we’ve got you covered. With both options, you’re sure to enjoy some crunchy, crispy perfection that’ll make you sing!
What Makes Southern-Style Fried Chicken So Special?
Southern-style fried chicken is iconic. What sets it apart from other fried chicken recipes is the tender, juicy chicken inside the perfectly crispy, seasoned batter outside. This traditional dish has been adapted dthrough the generations, with each one adding its own method in the process or twist to the seasoning. What is important is that the foundation is always the same: crispy fried chicken with a flavorful, well-seasoned coating.
Why Southern-Style Fried Cauliflower Makes a Great Meat-Free Option
But what if you need something vegetarian, or you’re simply looking to try a lighter version of this classic comfort food? Not to worry! This Southern-Style Fried Cauliflower recipe is the perfect meat-free alternative that gives you all the flavor and crunch you love. With cauliflower being a fantastic substitute for chicken, this dish is provides the same crispy, golden goodness.
Cauliflower’s mild flavor and tender texture is perfect for frying, and with the right coating, it takes on all those incredible Southern-style spices. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just trying to eat more vegetables, Southern-Style Fried Cauliflower is a fantastic choice to enjoy.
Tips for the Perfect Dishes:
- Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: The longer you let your chicken or cauliflower marinate, the deeper the flavors will be. For chicken, marinating in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight if possible) to soak up the spices. For cauliflower, marinating for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Double Dipping: For an extra crispy finish, dip them into the buttermilk, then the flour, and repeat for a second coating.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: The key to perfect crispy texture is to keep the oil temperature nice and hot. If it’s too cool, the coating may become soggy.
- Rest After Frying: Allow the finished pieces to rest on a paper towel after frying to remove excess oil, which helps maintain that crispy texture.
To the meat-lover and the vegetarians, this Southern-Style Fried Chicken & Fried Cauliflower Recipe offers something for everyone. From the crispy, seasoned fried chicken and the same crunchy, golden cauliflower, these dishes are guaranteed to be a hit and serve everyone at any dinner table. Try them for some true Southern comfort food, and enjoy delicious, down-home flavors!
May the LORD bless your hands as you prepare, your table as you gather, and your food as you eat.
Amen!
From my table to yours,
WITH MEAT:
Crispy Southern Style Fried Chicken Recipe | Classic
Ingredients
- 4 chicken pieces skin-on, bone-in
- 2 cups buttermilk or substitute
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce optional
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).
- Add your chicken pieces and cover.
- Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
Prepare the Seasoned Flour:
- In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
Coat the Chicken:
- Take each chicken piece out of the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off.
- Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat it well.
- For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again.
Fry the Chicken:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully add the chicken pieces. Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown.
Drain and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
VEGETARIAN:
Crispy Southern Style Fried Cauliflower Recipe | Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower cut into florets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce optional
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Marinate the Cauliflower:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).
- Add the cauliflower florets and mix to coat them well.
- Cover and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Seasoned Flour:
- In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Mix everything together until evenly distributed.
Coat the Cauliflower:
- After marinating, take each cauliflower floret and dip it into the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure it’s fully coated.
- For an extra crispy coating, dip the cauliflower back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.
Fry the Cauliflower:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large frying pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully add the cauliflower florets in batches.
- Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Drain and Serve:
- Once fried, remove the cauliflower from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or Southern side dishes.
DID YOU TRY OUR RECIPE?
If you tried this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and/or review in the comment section. Feedback is warmly welcomed and your support is greatly appreciated!
————————————–
Find much more to discover, here on Touching Tables.
…There’s More to EAT
Find All Recipes…There’s More to EXPLORE
Thank you sincerely for your support of Touching Tables.
We are a reader-supported publication, learn more about how to partner with us!