Bang Bang Cauliflower

Crispy, spicy, and perfectly coated in a creamy chili sauce, this Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe is a game-changer for meatless meals. Whether served as an appetizer, side, or main dish, these golden cauliflower bites deliver a flavor punch that’s tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy—all in one satisfying bite. It’s a healthier, plant-based twist on the beloved Bang Bang flavors you know and love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Texture – Oven-baked or air-fried to golden perfection.
Bold Flavor – Tossed in a creamy, sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce.
Meatless & Delicious – A vegetarian dish even meat-eaters will crave.
Easy to Make – Simple steps with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Versatile – Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or taco filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cauliflower:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup water or unsweetened plant milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• Non-stick spray or oil (for baking)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish & Serving:

• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Cooked rice, lettuce wraps, or tacos (optional for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet and parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spoon
• Air fryer (optional)
• Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, water or plant milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting the excess drip off.
Then press each piece into the panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
Place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Alternatively, air fry at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.
Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness as needed.

Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once the cauliflower is cooked, let cool for 2–3 minutes.
Gently toss in the Bang Bang sauce or drizzle it over the top.
Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Cauliflower
Cut Evenly – Try to keep florets around the same size for even cooking.
Double-Coat for Crunch – For extra crispiness, press the panko in firmly.
Air Fry Option – Use the air fryer for maximum crunch with less oil.
Serve Fresh – Best enjoyed right after coating in sauce to maintain crispiness.
Adjust Sauce – Make it milder or spicier based on your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions
Serve over rice or quinoa for a simple meatless meal.
Add to lettuce cups or tacos with shredded cabbage and lime.
Pair with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a veggie-packed plate.
Use as a fun party appetizer with toothpicks or mini skewers.

How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Refrigerate: Keep leftover cauliflower in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store sauce separately if possible.
Do not freeze, as it may lose its texture.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat on a baking sheet at 375°F for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness.
Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
Microwave: Not recommended, as it may turn soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
2. Is this recipe vegan?
   It can be! Just use vegan mayo and maple syrup instead of honey.
3. Can I prep this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can batter and breadcrumb the cauliflower ahead and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.
4. How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
   It’s mildly spicy. You can tone it down by reducing the sriracha or increasing the mayo.
5. Can I fry the cauliflower instead of baking or air frying?
   Yes, deep-fry until golden and crispy, then toss in the sauce.

Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Cauliflower is everything you want in a snack or meatless dish—crispy, flavorful, and totally addictive. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a main dish, or a fun addition to tacos and rice bowls, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creation on social media. We’d love to see how yours turns out.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 460mg

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