Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups cauliflower rice (about 1 small head of cauliflower, grated or processed into rice)
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/4 cup chickpea flour (or almond flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or preferred cooking oil)
• 2 tablespoons water (adjust as needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the buffalo cauliflower:

• 1 small cauliflower head, cut into florets
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

For the pizza toppings:

• 1/2 cup dairy-free pizza sauce or tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup vegan mozzarella cheese (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Vegan ranch dressing (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cauliflower rice crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
   • Grate or pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor to create cauliflower rice. Steam or microwave the cauliflower rice for about 5-7 minutes until soft, then let it cool slightly.
   • Once the cauliflower rice is cool, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture.
   • In a bowl, combine the cauliflower rice with flaxseed, chickpea flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, olive oil, water, and baking powder. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms.
   • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and press it into a round or rectangular shape (about 1/4 inch thick). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the crust is firm.
2. Prepare the buffalo cauliflower:
   • While the crust is baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) again if needed.
   • In a bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with hot sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika until well coated.
   • Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and crispy at the edges.
3. Assemble the pizza:
   • Once the crust is ready, remove it from the oven and spread the pizza sauce evenly over the top.
   • Sprinkle a layer of vegan mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
   • Add the roasted buffalo cauliflower on top of the cheese.
   • Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish and serve:
   • After removing the pizza from the oven, sprinkle with thinly sliced red onions and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
   • Drizzle with vegan ranch dressing if desired for an extra creamy finish.
5. Enjoy:
   • Slice and enjoy your delicious Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza, packed with heat, flavor, and a satisfying crunch!

This Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza offers a smoky, spicy, and savory combination that’s sure to please even non-vegans. It’s perfect for a fun, meatless meal or a pizza night with a bit of a kick!