Whole cauliflower roasted in air fryer is a perfect appetizer for special occasions, parties, potlucks, game days, and Thanksgiving. Whole head of cauliflower is first steamed in the instant pot and then coated with a marinade of yogurt and Indian spices before air frying it. Check out how to roast whole cauliflower in the air fryer.
Discard all the leaves and cut the stem of the cauliflower and rinse it with water.
Place the cauliflower into the steamer basket and place it inside the instant pot (use a trivet if needed).
Close and lock the lid with the pressure knob in the sealing position. Turn the "keep warm" setting on.
Pressure cook on high-pressure mode for 5 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes.
Manually release the remaining pressure by moving the knob to the venting position.
Marinate cauliflower
In a bowl add all the ingredients from the list - "Oil, whole spices, and herbs" and "Spice powder".
Mix everything well with a spoon or a whisk.
Place the cauliflower on parchment paper.
Apply the marinade well to the inside of the cauliflower by inverting it.
Then place the cauliflower head upwards and apply the marinade to the top surface and coat it well with a basting brush.
Optionally, rest the cauliflower to marinate for 15 - 30 minutes.
Cook whole cauliflower in air fryer
Preheat the air fryer for 2-3 minutes on 390°F.
Place the marinated cauliflower along with the parchment paper in the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes on 390°F.
The top surface will turn golden brown.
Lower the temperature to 370°F and cook for another 12 minutes.
Finally, check for doneness with the help of a fork. Cauliflower should feel a little crunchy instead of mushy.
If needed, air fry for another 5 minutes on 370°F until well done.
Take the cauliflower out carefully.
Notes
SubstitutionsThere are a few substitutions you can make this delicious roasted cauliflower.
Vegan - to make it vegan, you can use plant based yogurt like almond yogurt.
Spices - you can use garlic powder and ginger powder instead of fresh ones.
Yogurt - you can use the Greek yogurt if you do not have plain yogurt.
Variations You can also make some variations for your family and guests.
Spicy - add some minced serrano pepper or green chili paste to the marinade to add more spiciness. You can also increase the amount of red chili powder and garam masala as well.