Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Name: Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: For the Cauliflower:; 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3/4 cup non-dairy milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Oil for frying; For the Bang Bang Sauce:; 1/4 cup vegan mayo; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or agave nectar)

Isabella

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Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower a crispy, tender cauliflower bites coated in a creamy, spicy sauce make this dish a perfect snack or side. The combination of crunchy batter and bold flavors from the Bang Bang sauce creates an irresistible bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower delivers the perfect balance of crunch and heat. The batter crisps up beautifully while keeping the cauliflower tender inside. The Bang Bang sauce, with its creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor, takes it to the next level. This dish is quick to make and works great as an appetizer, party snack, or even a light meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cauliflower:

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets

1/2 cup cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

3/4 cup non-dairy milk

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

Oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

1/4 cup vegan mayo

2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to desired spice level)

1 teaspoon maple syrup (or agave nectar)

Directions

Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to about 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Gradually add the non-dairy milk, stirring until a smooth batter forms.

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring full coverage.

Fry the battered cauliflower in batches for about 3-4 minutes per batch, until golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

In a small bowl, mix together the vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and maple syrup to make the Bang Bang sauce.

Toss the fried cauliflower in the sauce until evenly coated.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 200 kcal per serving

Variations

Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the cauliflower at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.

Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Extra Crunchy: Add panko breadcrumbs after dipping the florets in the batter for an extra crispy coating.

Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free flour and ensure the cornstarch is gluten-free.

Milder Heat: Reduce or omit the sriracha for a less spicy version.

Storage and Reheating

I prefer eating this dish fresh, but if there are leftovers:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cauliflower soggy.

Related Recipes:

Roasted Cauliflower Soup

FAQs

How can I make this dish oil-free?

I suggest baking or air-frying instead of deep frying. Lightly spray the cauliflower with oil before baking for some crispiness.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Cauliflower?

I like to pair it with rice, lettuce wraps, or even use it as a filling for tacos. It also makes a great party appetizer.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but I recommend thawing and patting it dry first to avoid excess moisture, which can make the batter less crispy.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

If serving to kids, I reduce or omit the sriracha to keep the heat level mild. The sweet chili sauce still adds great flavor without too much spice.

Conclusion

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is a fun, crispy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, the combination of crunchy cauliflower and creamy, spicy sauce never disappoints. I love how versatile it is, making it a great addition to any meal or snack lineup.

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