Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
Description
This crispy, spicy, and slightly sweet Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is an absolute game-changer! Coated in a crunchy panko crust and drizzled with a creamy, zesty bang bang sauce, this dish is the perfect plant-based appetizer or side dish that’s guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower:
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
¾ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
Cooking spray or oil for baking
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
½ cup vegan mayo
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave
1 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions:
Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Place the panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow bowl.
2. Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting any excess drip off.
Roll in the panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
3. Bake (or Air Fry) the Cauliflower
Lightly spray the florets with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, and lime juice.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Drizzle or toss the crispy cauliflower in the bang bang sauce right before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Serve immediately for the best texture!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 220
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Bang Bang Cauliflower has taken the vegan food world by storm, offering a flavorful, crunchy, and satisfying alternative to traditional Bang Bang Shrimp. I first fell in love with this dish when looking for a spicy, crispy appetizer that would be a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. The combination of crispy cauliflower and creamy, spicy sauce makes for an irresistible bite every time!
This Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is the ultimate combination of crispy, spicy, and creamy. Whether you're serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or even in a taco, it's sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of plant-based comfort food!
The Importance of Each Ingredient :
Cauliflower: The star of the dish, providing a tender yet crispy bite.
Flour & Plant-Based Milk: Forms the base of the batter for a light, crispy coating.
Garlic Powder, Salt & Pepper: Enhances the flavor profile with savory depth.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for that extra crunch that makes this dish irresistible.
Vegan Mayo: Creates a creamy base for the bang bang sauce.
Sweet Chili Sauce & Sriracha: Brings the signature sweet and spicy heat.
Maple Syrup: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the spice.
Lime Juice: Provides a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors.
Cooking Tips for the Best Bang Bang Cauliflower:
Use Fresh Cauliflower: This ensures a great texture and prevents sogginess.
Coat Evenly: Toss the cauliflower well in the batter to achieve an even crunch.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave space between each piece for even cooking.
Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
Toss in Sauce Right Before Serving: To keep that perfect crispiness!
Why You’ll Love this Recipe:
Crispy & Flavorful: Perfectly battered and baked (or air-fried) to golden perfection.
Healthier Alternative: No deep frying needed—this recipe is lighter yet just as delicious.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking for the perfect balance of flavor.
100% Plant-Based: A fantastic meat-free appetizer or side dish that even non-vegans will love.
Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
Author: Purely Plant Plates
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
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Purely Plant Plates is a comprehensive food blog dedicated to plant-based living, offering a wealth of delicious and nutritious vegan recipes, expert baking tips, and in-depth nutritional insights. Whether you're a long-time vegan, exploring plant-based eating for the first time, or simply looking to incorporate more wholesome, animal-free meals into your diet, this blog is your go-to resource for all things vegan cooking.
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