Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower

Bang bang cauliflower transforms humble florets into addictive crispy bites coated in creamy, spicy sauce. This vegan twist on the classic shrimp dish creates the perfect balance of texture and bold flavor. The cauliflower gets incredibly crunchy while the signature sauce brings sweet heat that keeps you coming back for more.

I first made this for a gathering with skeptical meat-eating friends who ended up fighting over the last pieces. The combination of crispy exterior and tender cauliflower interior completely won them over.

Essential Ingredients

• Cauliflower florets: Choose a firm head with tight, white florets for best results and cut into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• All-purpose flour: Creates the foundation for your light yet crispy coating.
• Cornstarch: The secret to achieving that restaurant-quality crunch that stays crispy longer.
• Plant-based milk: Adds moisture to your batter while keeping it completely vegan-friendly.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Vegan mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for your bang bang sauce without any dairy.
• Sweet chili sauce: Brings the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat to complement the spicier elements.
• Sriracha or hot sauce: Controls the heat level of your sauce while adding complexity.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare Your Station:

Set up your dredging area with separate bowls for dry mixture, wet batter, and breadcrumbs before cutting cauliflower into bite-sized florets of similar size for even cooking time.

Create Perfect Batter:

Whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Gradually add plant-based milk until you achieve a pancake batter consistency that will cling to cauliflower without dripping off.

Coat With Precision:

Dip each floret into the wet batter, allowing excess to drip off, then roll in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage without compacting the coating too much.

Bake To Perfection:

Arrange coated cauliflower pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each piece, then bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy throughout.

Prepare Signature Sauce:

Combine vegan mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and a touch of maple syrup in a bowl, then whisk until completely smooth and slightly thickened.

Apply The Finishing Touch:

Transfer hot cauliflower to a large mixing bowl, then pour half the sauce over top and gently toss to coat every piece evenly without breaking the crispy exterior.

My grandmother always incorporated cauliflower into our family meals because she believed in its healing properties. When I introduced her to this spicy version, she was initially hesitant but quickly requested the recipe after her first bite, proving that even traditional cooks can appreciate modern twists.

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Flavor Boosters

The secret to elevating this dish lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika to your batter creates depth that complements the sauce perfectly. A touch of rice vinegar in the bang bang sauce cuts through the richness and brightens the entire dish. Consider adding toasted sesame oil for an authentic Asian-inspired aroma that transforms the experience completely.

Meal Companions

This versatile cauliflower works beautifully served over steamed jasmine rice with thinly sliced scallions and sesame seeds. For a complete meal experience, pair with quick-pickled vegetables that provide acidic contrast to the rich sauce. Serving alongside cold soba noodles tossed in sesame oil creates textural interest while maintaining the Asian flavor profile throughout your dining experience.

Dietary Adjustments

Replace all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free blend for those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing the crispy texture. Almond milk works wonderfully as a substitute if you prefer nut-based plant milks in your cooking routine. For those watching sugar intake, substitute the sweet chili sauce with a combination of sugar-free maple syrup and additional hot sauce adjusted to your heat preference.

Keeping Leftovers

Store any remaining cauliflower in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days, though the texture is best enjoyed fresh. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8 minutes to restore crispiness rather than microwaving, which will result in a soggy coating. Consider storing the sauce separately if preparing ahead of time, then applying just before serving to maintain maximum crunch factor during storage.

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I have experimented with countless ways to prepare cauliflower over my years of cooking, but this bang bang version consistently impresses even the most dedicated meat eaters. The combination of thoughtfully seasoned coating and that irresistible sweet heat sauce creates something truly special that transcends typical vegetable preparations. Whether serving as a party appetizer or weeknight dinner component, this recipe transforms humble cauliflower into something worthy of celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), place the coated cauliflower in a single layer, and cook for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. After adding the sauce, return to the air fryer for another 1-2 minutes.

→ How spicy is this bang bang cauliflower?

The spice level is adjustable based on your preference. If you want it milder, reduce the amount of sambal oelek or chili paste. For extra heat, add more to both the batter and sauce.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe fully gluten-free.

→ How do I keep the cauliflower crispy?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 450°F before baking, give each piece enough space on the baking sheet, and serve immediately after the final bake for maximum crispiness.

→ What can I serve with bang bang cauliflower?

It works great as an appetizer on its own, but you can also serve it over rice with steamed vegetables for a complete meal, or in lettuce wraps with fresh herbs and extra sauce.