Craving that smoky, sweet, and tangy BBQ flavor but want to keep things plant-based? Look no further than this irresistible BBQ Cauliflower Recipe (Vegan).
This dish transforms humble cauliflower into the ultimate finger-licking appetizer, snack, or even a main course that’s bursting with flavor, all while being completely dairy-free and egg-free. Whether you’re a long-time vegan, looking to eat more vegetables, or just want to impress guests at your next cookout, these BBQ cauliflower bites are sure to be a hit.
The best part? This recipe is simple, quick, and uses pantry-friendly ingredients.
You’ll be amazed at how the crispy, roasted cauliflower florets soak up the sticky BBQ sauce, delivering big, bold taste in every bite. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional wings and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Get ready to fire up your oven and enjoy a crowd-pleasing vegan classic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and satisfying: These BBQ cauliflower bites are savory, smoky, tangy, and a little bit sweet—just like your favorite BBQ wings.
- Completely vegan: No animal products, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
- Easy to make: Only a handful of ingredients and simple steps.
- Healthy: Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, and pair with your favorite sides.
- Kid-friendly: The bold BBQ flavor makes eating veggies fun for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cauliflower | 1 large head | Cut into bite-sized florets |
| All-purpose flour | 3/4 cup | Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend |
| Unsweetened plant milk | 3/4 cup | Almond, soy, or oat milk recommended |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Smoked paprika for extra flavor |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Or to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | |
| BBQ sauce (vegan) | 3/4 cup | Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade |
| Olive oil (optional) | 1 tbsp | For extra crispiness |
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula or tongs
- Basting brush (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, plant milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still pourable. If it seems too thick, add an extra splash of plant milk.
- Coat the cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated in the batter. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure even coverage.
- Arrange and bake: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each piece to allow for even browning. If you like, drizzle or spray a little olive oil on top for extra crispiness.
- Bake (first round): Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through. The cauliflower should be starting to brown and feel crisp on the outside.
- Apply the BBQ sauce: Remove the cauliflower from the oven. Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat each piece with your vegan BBQ sauce. Be sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor.
- Bake (second round): Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the BBQ sauce is sticky and caramelized and the cauliflower is fork-tender.
- Serve: Let the BBQ cauliflower cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Enjoy while hot!
Tips & Variations
- Air fryer option: For ultra-crispy bites, cook the battered cauliflower in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes before brushing with BBQ sauce and air frying for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the batter for a spicy twist.
- Gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
- Homemade BBQ sauce: For a truly homemade touch, whip up your own vegan BBQ sauce with tomato paste, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and spices.
- Serving for a crowd: Double the recipe and use two baking sheets to feed a hungry group.
- “Don’t over-crowd the baking sheet. For the crispiest results, keep florets in a single layer with space in between!”
If you love creative vegan recipes, try our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or check out the savory Half Runner Beans Recipe for more plant-based inspiration!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 460mg |
| Vitamin C | 85% DV |
| Iron | 9% DV |
Nutrition facts are estimates and will vary based on the specific BBQ sauce and plant milk used.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve with vegan ranch or blue cheese dip, and a side of celery and carrot sticks for that classic “wing night” experience.
- Main course: Pile BBQ cauliflower bites atop a bed of grains, in a wrap, or alongside a hearty salad. Pair with fluffy bread like our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe for a satisfying meal.
- Taco night: Spoon the BBQ cauliflower into warm tortillas, add crunchy slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for vibrant vegan tacos.
- Bowl-style: Add to a grain bowl with quinoa, black beans, corn, and fresh greens. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce or a creamy cashew dressing.
- Party platter: Arrange on a large platter with fresh veggies and your favorite vegan dipping sauces for game day or gatherings.
Conclusion
Making BBQ cauliflower (vegan) at home is easier than you might think, and the results are truly mouthwatering. This recipe is proof that you don’t need animal products to enjoy classic BBQ flavors and textures.
With its crispy coating and sticky, caramelized sauce, each bite is a celebration of plant-based cooking at its best.
Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner, party, or as a fun weeknight treat. It’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and even the most devoted meat-eaters in your life.
Don’t forget to experiment with different sauces and serving styles to make it your own. And if you loved this, you might also enjoy our Lazy Cookie Cake Recipe for dessert, or sip on a Green Goodness Juice for a fresh, healthy beverage!
Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan BBQ Cauliflower Bites
Description: These vegan BBQ cauliflower bites are crispy, flavorful, and perfect as an appetizer or snack. They’re easy to make and satisfy any BBQ craving without the meat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened plant milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (vegan)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, plant milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cornstarch to form a batter.
- Toss cauliflower florets in the batter until evenly coated.
- Arrange coated cauliflower on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from oven and toss cauliflower with BBQ sauce.
- Return to oven and bake for another 10 minutes until crispy.
- Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 210 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 38 g
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