Bang Bang Cauliflower

Crispy, spicy, and coated in a creamy sweet chili sauce, Bang Bang Cauliflower is the ultimate plant-based appetizer or side dish. Inspired by the popular bang bang shrimp, this version uses roasted or air-fried cauliflower florets tossed in a bold, zesty sauce made with mayo, sriracha, and sweet chili. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for parties or meatless meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy & Crunchy – Lightly battered cauliflower for that satisfying bite.
Flavor-Packed – Sweet, spicy, and tangy bang bang sauce.
Meatless & Satisfying – Great vegetarian option with big flavor.
Oven or Air Fryer – Cook it your way for perfect texture.
Perfect Appetizer or Side – Serve it with rice, tacos, or on its own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cauliflower:
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
½ cup water
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: ½ cup breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp lime juice or rice vinegar

For Garnish:
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Lime wedges (optional)

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Baking sheet with parchment or an air fryer
Tongs or spatula
Serving plate

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the air fryer basket.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, water, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off.
3. Optional: Roll coated florets in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Step 3: Cook the Cauliflower
Oven:

1. Arrange coated florets in a single layer on the baking sheet.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Air Fryer:

1. Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
2. Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice.
2. Adjust spice level to your preference.

Step 5: Toss & Serve

1. Once cauliflower is crispy, place in a bowl and toss with half of the sauce (or drizzle over to maintain crispness).
2. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Cauliflower
Cut Even Pieces – Ensures even cooking and crispy texture.
Use Cornstarch – It makes the coating lighter and crispier.
Serve Immediately – Best when hot and fresh from the oven or air fryer.
Customize the Sauce – Make it spicier with more sriracha or sweeter with more honey.
Keep It Crunchy – Drizzle the sauce instead of tossing if you want max crispiness.

Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Bowls – Serve over rice with veggies and extra sauce.
Lettuce Wraps – Wrap in romaine or butter lettuce with slaw.
Tacos – Use as a spicy filling with avocado and cabbage.
Appetizer Platter – Pair with dipping sauces and skewers.
Side Dish – Great with noodles, fried rice, or grilled tofu.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate:
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat:
Air Fryer or Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness.
Microwave: Softens texture but still tasty—heat for 30–45 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes! Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy in any additional sauces.
2. Can I use vegan mayo?
   Absolutely! Vegan mayo works perfectly in the sauce.
3. What if I don’t like spicy food?
   Reduce or omit the sriracha and use extra honey or chili sauce.
4. Can I prep ahead?
   You can batter the cauliflower and store in the fridge, then bake or air fry fresh when ready.

Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Cauliflower is a crispy, crave-worthy dish that brings heat, sweetness, and bold flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a fun weeknight meatless option, this recipe is always a hit. It’s simple to make, customizable to your taste, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

Give it a try and bring some spice to your table—no takeout required!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 400mg

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