Description
Crispy, spicy, and irresistibly creamy, Bang Bang Cauliflower is the perfect plant-based appetizer or side dish that brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen. Battered and baked (or air-fried) cauliflower florets are tossed in a zesty, sweet heat sauce that makes every bite addictive. It’s a game day favorite, meatless Monday hit, or anytime snack that never fails to impress.
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Ingredients
For the Cauliflower:
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup water
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp salt
2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
Cooking spray (for baking or air frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
Optional Garnishes:
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Fresh cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or set air fryer to 400°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt until smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off.
Roll in panko breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
Place coated florets on the baking sheet or in air fryer basket, spaced apart.
Step 4: Bake or Air Fry
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Or air fry in batches for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.
Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the cauliflower bakes, mix mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar in a bowl until creamy.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once cauliflower is crispy, toss it gently in the bang bang sauce or drizzle it over the top.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Use Panko – For extra crispy texture
Toss Lightly – Don’t oversaturate the cauliflower with sauce
Customize Heat – More sriracha = more spice
Serve Immediately – Best enjoyed fresh and hot
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired American