If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying vegan appetizer or snack, look no further than this Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe vegan! This dish takes the humble cauliflower and transforms it into a crispy, spicy, and creamy delight that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
The combination of a crunchy, golden coating paired with a flavorful, creamy bang bang sauce makes this recipe an absolute crowd-pleaser. Perfect for game day, casual dinners, or even as a party finger food, it’s an easy way to impress friends and family without any animal products involved.
What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of textures and flavors. The crunchy roasted or air-fried cauliflower bites coated in a spicy, tangy sauce offer a mouthwatering experience that’s both indulgent and healthy.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your spice preference or dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this bang bang cauliflower will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bang Bang Cauliflower is an addictive vegan twist on a classic appetizer that usually features shrimp or chicken. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in under 40 minutes.
- Healthy and nutritious: Cauliflower is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this a guilt-free indulgence.
- Customizable heat level: Adjust the sauce’s spice by adding more or less sriracha or chili paste.
- Versatile serving options: Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main with rice or greens.
- Crispy texture: Baking or air frying ensures a crunchy exterior without excess oil.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for baking or air frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Equipment
- Large mixing bowls for batter and coating
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Air fryer (optional but recommended for extra crispiness)
- Wire rack (if baking, to promote even crisping)
- Whisk for mixing batter and sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for sauce preparation
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not overly runny.
- Prepare the coating: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.
- Coat the cauliflower: Dip each floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Place coated florets on a plate or tray.
- Bake or air fry:
- For baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the florets on the rack to ensure crispiness on all sides. Lightly spray or brush with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- For air frying: Place florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Make the bang bang sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, maple syrup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy.
- Toss the cooked cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is crispy and golden, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the bang bang sauce over the florets and gently toss until well coated.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your spicy, creamy bang bang cauliflower!
Tips & Variations
For extra crunch, double coat the cauliflower by dipping it in batter and breadcrumbs twice.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers.
- Adjust heat: Increase or decrease sriracha in the sauce based on your spice tolerance.
- Air fryer vs. oven: Air frying yields crispier results with less oil, but the oven method works well too.
- Add herbs: Mix fresh chopped cilantro or parsley into the bang bang sauce for a fresh twist.
- Make it oil-free: Skip spraying oil and bake on a silicone mat; it will still crisp up nicely.
- Serving Sauce Options: Serve extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle over the top.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.
Serving Suggestions
This bang bang cauliflower is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for serving:
- As an appetizer: Serve with extra bang bang sauce or a cooling vegan ranch dip for dipping.
- With grains: Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa and sautéed greens for a filling meal.
- In tacos or wraps: Add bang bang cauliflower to soft tortillas with shredded lettuce, avocado, and pickled onions.
- With noodles: Serve alongside cold soba noodles tossed with sesame dressing for a refreshing contrast.
- Party platter: Include bang bang cauliflower on a vegan snack board with fresh veggies, crackers, and dips.
For more vegan inspiration, check out our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or try the flavorful Half Runner Beans Recipe. And if you’re craving a sweet treat after, don’t miss the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for a delightful dessert experience.
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe vegan is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, crispy, and spicy dish that everyone can enjoy. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for a variety of occasions — from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
The creamy, spicy sauce combined with the crunchy cauliflower creates an irresistible combination that will satisfy your cravings without any animal products. Plus, it’s highly adaptable, so you can tweak the heat, coating, or serving style to suit your taste.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based foodie, this recipe offers a delicious and fun way to enjoy cauliflower in a whole new light. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection.
Happy cooking and be sure to explore more tasty vegan recipes on our site!
📖 Recipe Card: Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe Vegan
Description: Crispy battered cauliflower tossed in a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce. A perfect vegan appetizer or snack that's bursting with flavor.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the batter.
- Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Place coated florets on the baking sheet and drizzle with vegetable oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden, flipping halfway through.
- In a separate bowl, mix vegan mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and maple syrup to make the bang bang sauce.
- Toss the baked cauliflower in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 30 g
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