Description
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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Ingredients
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)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the air fryer basket.
Step 2: Make the Batter
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, water, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off.
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Optional: Roll coated florets in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Step 3: Cook the Cauliflower
Oven:
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Arrange coated florets in a single layer on the baking sheet.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Air Fryer:
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Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
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Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
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In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice.
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Adjust spice level to your preference.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
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Once cauliflower is crispy, place in a bowl and toss with half of the sauce (or drizzle over to maintain crispness).
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Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and serve with extra sauce on the side.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired American