Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe

The Most Irresistible Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe Ever

Crunch meets creativity in this incredible vegan bang bang cauliflower that will make plant-based eating unexpectedly exciting.

Crispy florets dance with a spicy-sweet sauce that catches everyone’s attention.

Unexpected flavors burst through each golden-brown bite, challenging traditional expectations about vegetable dishes.

Delicate cauliflower transforms into a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels indulgent yet nutritious.

Packed with bold seasonings and a tangy coating, this recipe proves vegetables can be seriously delicious.

Curious cooks will love how simple ingredients create such an impressive dish.

You should definitely give this recipe a spin and watch magic happen on your plate.

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower For Spicy Cravings

  • Crisp with Minimal Effort: Achieve restaurant-quality crunch without deep-frying, making this vegan cauliflower dish a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste or texture.
  • Quick Weeknight Wonder: Prepare a delicious meal in under an hour with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that even novice cooks can master confidently.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Plant-Based Delight: Impress both vegans and non-vegans with this flavor-packed dish that transforms humble cauliflower into a mouthwatering appetizer or main course.
  • Customize Your Spice Level: Easily adjust the heat by playing with sriracha quantities, making it perfect for different taste preferences and spice tolerances.

Gather All Ingredients For Vegan Bang Bang Night

Main Ingredients:
  • Cauliflower: A hearty vegetable that serves as the base of this crispy and flavorful dish.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides a crucial coating for creating a crunchy exterior.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Ensures a light and extra crispy texture for the cauliflower.
Liquid and Binding Ingredients:
  • Plant-Based Milk, Vegan Milk: Helps create a smooth batter for coating the cauliflower.
  • Sweet Chili Sauce, Sriracha: Adds a spicy and sweet flavor profile to the dish.
  • Vegan Mayonnaise: Contributes to a creamy and tangy sauce.
Seasonings and Garnishes:
  • Salt, Pepper, Seasonings: Enhance the overall flavor of the cauliflower and sauce.
  • Green Onions, Sesame Seeds: Provide a fresh and nutty garnish that adds visual appeal and extra texture.

Steps To Make Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Fast

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Tray

Crank up your oven to a toasty 425°F.

Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Paprika

Whisk these dry ingredients until well blended.

Step 2: Create Crispy Coating

Grab another bowl and mix your flour blend with plant-based milk.

The consistency should be smooth and slightly thick.

Dunk cauliflower florets into this magical mixture, ensuring each piece is completely covered.

Roll the coated florets in crispy Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help crumbs stick.

Step 3: Roast to Golden Perfection

Arrange the breaded cauliflower on your prepared baking tray.

Slide into the preheated oven.

Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each piece to ensure even browning.

Continue baking another 15 minutes until the cauliflower turns a gorgeous golden brown and becomes wonderfully crispy.

Step 4: Whip Up Tangy Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Sweet chili sauce
  • Vegan mayonnaise
  • Sriracha
  • Lime juice
  • Garlic powder

Stir until the sauce is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Transfer the roasted cauliflower into the sauce, gently tossing to coat each piece.

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and a shower of sesame seeds.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips For Crispy Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Every Time

  • Use a mix of flour and cornstarch for extra crunchiness, ensuring the Panko breadcrumbs stick perfectly to the cauliflower pieces.
  • Pat cauliflower completely dry before coating to guarantee a crisp, golden exterior that stays crunchy when sauced.
  • Let cauliflower sit in the batter for a few minutes to help seasonings penetrate deeply and create a more flavorful bite.
  • Control the heat by gradually adding sriracha to the sauce, tasting as you go to match your personal spice preference.
  • Enjoy the cauliflower right after saucing to maintain the optimal crispy texture and prevent the coating from becoming soft.

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Flavor Variations To Try

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond or rice flour for a celiac-friendly option. Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to maintain crispy texture.
  • Spicy Lovers Edition: Increase sriracha in sauce or add cayenne pepper to batter for extra heat. Include diced jalapeños in coating for more intense spice profile.
  • Air Fryer Quick Method: Cook cauliflower in air fryer at 400F for 12-15 minutes instead of oven. Reduces cooking time while maintaining crispy exterior.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute panko with crushed pork rinds or almond flour coating. Use sugar-free sweet chili sauce to reduce carbohydrate content.

Ways To Serve Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Fresh

  • Party Platter Perfection: Arrange crispy cauliflower bites on a large wooden board with small dipping sauce bowls scattered around for easy sharing at gatherings.
  • Dinner Companion: Serve alongside fluffy brown rice or quinoa and steamed greens for a complete and balanced plant-based meal that feels satisfying and nutritious.
  • Appetizer Extravaganza: Present as a crowd-pleasing starter during game nights or social events, with toothpicks for easy grabbing and minimal mess.
  • Spice Level Customization: Set out extra sriracha or chili sauce on the side so guests can adjust heat intensity according to their personal preference.

Storing Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower For Lunch

  • Store leftover cauliflower in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Separate sauce from cauliflower to prevent sogginess.
  • Wrap cooled cauliflower pieces individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Keeps well for 1-2 months. Freeze sauce separately.
  • Preheat to 375F. Spread cauliflower on baking sheet, bake 10-12 minutes until crispy. Warm sauce separately and drizzle after heating.
  • Cook at 350F for 4-5 minutes, shaking basket halfway through. Ensures crispy texture without additional oil. Reapply sauce after heating.

FAQs

  • Is bang bang cauliflower healthy?

Yes, it’s a nutritious alternative to fried dishes. Cauliflower is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins. Baking instead of deep-frying reduces overall oil content, making it a healthier option.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The recipe can easily be adapted for gluten-sensitive diets without compromising taste.

  • What makes the sauce unique?

The combination of sweet chili sauce, vegan mayo, and sriracha creates a tangy, spicy, and creamy sauce. It provides a perfect balance of flavors that complements the crispy cauliflower.

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Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe


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4.9 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy, golden bang bang cauliflower delivers a spicy-sweet sensation that elevates plant-based dining to delightful new heights. Crunchy florets glazed with zesty sauce will satisfy spice seekers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 medium cauliflower (4 cups florets)
  • 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) all-purpose flour
  • 11.5 cups (240360 milliliters) non-dairy milk
  • 12 cups (120240 grams) Panko breadcrumbs

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) vegan mayo
  • 12 teaspoons (510 milliliters) sriracha

Seasoning and Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal non-stick cooking.
  2. Create a seasoned flour mixture by combining dry ingredients with aromatic spices for coating the cauliflower.
  3. Whisk together plant-based milk and flour mixture to develop a smooth, consistent batter that will adhere well to the cauliflower florets.
  4. Dip each cauliflower piece into the batter, ensuring complete coverage, then generously roll in crispy Panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
  5. Arrange coated cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining space between pieces to promote even browning and crispiness.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, then carefully flip each piece to ensure uniform golden-brown coloration.
  7. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the cauliflower achieves a deep golden exterior and crisp texture.
  8. While baking, craft a vibrant sauce by blending sweet chili sauce, vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, and complementary seasonings.
  9. Once cauliflower is perfectly crisp, gently toss in the prepared sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly and generously coated.
  10. Garnish with finely chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Ensure cauliflower pieces are similar in size for even cooking and crispy texture.
  • Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
  • Pat cauliflower completely dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent soggy results.
  • Can replace sriracha with mild hot sauce or omit for less spicy version suitable for kids or sensitive palates.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 360 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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