Bang Bang Cauliflower Wagamama Vegan Recipe Made Easy

Updated On: October 5, 2025

If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful vegan appetizer that packs a punch, look no further than this Bang Bang Cauliflower inspired by Wagamama’s beloved dish. This recipe takes the humble cauliflower and transforms it into crispy, spicy bites coated in a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce that’s completely plant-based.

Perfect for sharing at parties, casual dinners, or whenever you crave a little heat and crunch, this vegan version stays true to the original’s spirit while keeping it wholesome and accessible.

With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this irresistible dish in under an hour. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this Bang Bang Cauliflower is sure to impress.

Ready to dive into this flavor explosion? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe is a delicious fusion of crispy, crunchy texture and creamy, spicy flavor. The batter creates a perfectly golden coating that holds the luscious bang bang sauce beautifully, giving each bite a wonderful balance of heat and coolness.

Plus, it’s entirely vegan – no eggs, dairy, or animal products involved, making it ideal for vegan and vegetarian eaters alike.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also relatively healthy. Cauliflower is rich in vitamins and fiber, and baking or air frying the florets cuts down on excess oil compared to traditional frying.

This recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients depending on what you have on hand.

If you love dishes like Kodiak Banana Muffins for their wholesome ingredients or enjoy the sweet treats like the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe, this savory snack will round out your culinary repertoire perfectly.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for tossing or spraying)
  • For the Bang Bang Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
    • 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
    • 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
    • 1 tbsp maple syrup
    • 1 tsp rice vinegar
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Chopped fresh cilantro or spring onions (for garnish, optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (at least two)
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat
  • Whisk or fork (for batter mixing)
  • Tongs or fork (for coating cauliflower)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven or air fryer

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and slightly thickened.
  3. Set up your breading station: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. You’ll use this to coat the battered cauliflower.
  4. Dip the cauliflower florets: Using tongs or a fork, dunk each floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then immediately coat them with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Drizzle or spray the florets lightly with vegetable oil to help them crisp up during baking.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning the florets halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. If using an air fryer, cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
  7. While the cauliflower bakes, make the bang bang sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy.
  8. Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl, then drizzle the bang bang sauce over and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro or spring onions, if desired, and serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your batter or increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce.

Use an air fryer for a healthier alternative that still delivers amazing crispiness without excess oil. Just watch closely to avoid burning.

You can also swap out cauliflower for broccoli or even tofu cubes for a different but equally delicious bang bang treat. If you prefer a gluten-free option, just use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

For a creamier sauce, add a teaspoon of vegan yogurt or a splash of coconut milk. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by playing with the maple syrup and vinegar quantities.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (approx.)
Calories 220 kcal
Carbohydrates 28 g
Protein 5 g
Fat 9 g
Fiber 5 g
Sugar 6 g
Sodium 350 mg

Serving Suggestions

This Bang Bang Cauliflower shines as a party appetizer or side dish. Serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice and sautéed greens for a balanced meal.

It also pairs wonderfully with vegan sliders or wraps for a casual dinner option.

For a fun twist, try serving it with a cooling cucumber salad or alongside your favorite dipping sauces like vegan ranch or sweet chili sauce. If you enjoy dishes with bold flavors, check out this Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to complement your meal perfectly.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Cauliflower vegan recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful snack or side without compromising on your plant-based lifestyle. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors that Wagamama fans adore.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to experiment with the spice levels and try different garnishes like herbs or seeds to make it your own. And if you’re looking for more delightful vegan recipes, be sure to check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe and Kool Aid Cake Recipe for some sweet and savory inspiration.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Bang Bang Cauliflower Wagamama Vegan Recipe

Description: A spicy, crispy cauliflower dish coated in a creamy vegan bang bang sauce. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or side.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp vegan mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, plant-based milk, salt, and pepper to make a batter.
  3. Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Place coated florets on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden.
  6. Mix vegan mayonnaise, Sriracha, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and garlic to make the bang bang sauce.
  7. Toss baked cauliflower in the sauce until evenly coated.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Marta K

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