Name: Bang Bang Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian-American
Ingredients: 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); 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; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds; Cooked rice, lettuce wraps, or tacos (optional for serving)

Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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)

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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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-American