Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Crispy, flavorful, and completely plant-based, these Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower wings are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a delicious appetizer, or craving a satisfying entrée served over rice, this recipe delivers. Coated in a crunchy batter and tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, it’s an irresistible dish that everyone will love!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cauliflower
• For the Vegan Bang Bang Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
• Step 1: Prep the Oven or Air Fryer
• Step 2: Batter and Panko Coating
• Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
• Step 4: Bake or Air Fry
• Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
• Step 6: Toss and Serve
• How to Serve Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
• As an Appetizer
• Over Rice
• In Tacos
• On Salads
• As a Snack
• How to Perfect Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
• Best Side Dishes for Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
• Reheating Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• How can I customize the bang bang sauce?
• How do I ensure my cauliflower stays crispy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower wings as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and the bang bang sauce creates a delightful taste experience.
• Healthier Alternative: This dish is plant-based and can be made gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.
• Great for Meal Prep: These crispy cauliflower bites can be stored and enjoyed later without losing their crunch.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and efficient, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wide bowl for Panko breadcrumbs
• Air fryer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Provides a surface for even cooking while allowing air circulation around the cauliflower.
• Silicone baking mat: Helps achieve extra crispiness and makes cleanup easier by preventing sticking.
• Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing the batter without spilling ingredients.
• Air fryer (optional): Cooks the cauliflower quickly while giving it a crispy texture without excessive oil.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower

• 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups large florets)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1 teaspoon granulated onion
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1–1 1/2 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk
• 1–2 cups Panko bread crumbs

For the Vegan Bang Bang Sauce

• 1 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 cup vegan mayo (homemade or store-bought)
• 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (to taste, optional)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

For Garnish

• Green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds

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How to Make Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Step 1: Prep the Oven or Air Fryer

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) or your air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking tray with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper for optimal crispiness.

Step 2: Batter and Panko Coating

In a medium bowl:
1. Mix together the flour, granulated onion, garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Make a well in the center and pour in the non-dairy milk. Whisk until smooth; ensure the batter is thick but able to drip off a spoon.
3. Place some Panko breadcrumbs in a separate wide bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

For each cauliflower floret:
1. Dip it into the batter until fully coated; let excess drip off.
2. Roll it in Panko breadcrumbs until completely covered.
3. Arrange them on the lined baking tray with space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Baking Method:
– Bake for 15 minutes; flip each piece and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.

Air Frying Method:
– Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15–25 minutes, shaking halfway through until crispy.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While cooking:
Mix Thai sweet chili sauce, vegan mayo, sriracha (if using), nutritional yeast (if using), and sea salt in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Once cooked:
Toss the crispy cauliflower in bang bang sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately on its own or over rice for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the cauliflower wings with toothpicks for easy eating at parties or gatherings.
• Pair with dipping sauces like extra bang bang sauce or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.

Over Rice

• Place the crispy cauliflower on a bed of steamed rice for a satisfying entrée.
• Add sautéed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious bowl.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create delicious vegan tacos filled with bang bang cauliflower.
• Top with fresh avocado, cilantro, and lime juice for a zesty twist.

On Salads

• Toss the cauliflower into a fresh salad for added texture and flavor.
• Combine with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

As a Snack

• Enjoy these crispy bites as a snack during movie nights or casual get-togethers.
• Serve alongside crunchy veggies for a fun and healthy platter.

How to Perfect Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Achieving the perfect Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use fresh cauliflower: Fresh florets will yield better texture and flavor compared to older produce.
• Ensure batter consistency: The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too thick that it becomes clumpy.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray: Give each floret space on the tray to promote even cooking and crispiness.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the spice mix in the batter based on your taste preferences.
• Adjust cooking times: Cooking times may vary based on your appliance; keep an eye on the cauliflower while it cooks.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing the cauliflower to cool slightly helps maintain its crispiness.

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Best Side Dishes for Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

To complement your Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower, consider these delicious side dishes. Each one adds unique flavors that enhance your meal experience.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that pairs well with the crispy cauliflower.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds grains and vegetables for balance.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy bang bang sauce.
4. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice provides a rich backdrop that highlights the flavors of the main dish.
5. Asian Slaw: Crunchy and tangy, this slaw adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
6. Garlic Noodles: Flavorful garlic noodles make a great base for serving alongside the cauliflower wings.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn is perfect for summer evenings or barbecues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold Batter Consistency: If your batter is too watery, the coating won’t stick well. Ensure you achieve a thick consistency that drips off a spoon without being runny.
• Bold Overcrowding the Baking Tray: Placing cauliflower florets too close together can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Leave enough space between each floret for even cooking.
• Bold Ignoring Panko Options: Not using Panko breadcrumbs can affect texture. If gluten-free, ensure you choose the right type or substitute with crushed crackers for crunchiness.
• Bold Skipping the Sauce: The bang bang sauce is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, adjust spice levels according to your taste for maximum enjoyment.
• Bold Neglecting Storage Tips: Storing uneaten cauliflower improperly can lead to sogginess. Always cool completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

• Place cooled cauliflower in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but expect a softer texture.
• Bold Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower?

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is a plant-based dish featuring crispy cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful bang bang sauce, perfect as an appetizer or meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and Panko breadcrumbs to enjoy the same crispy goodness without gluten.

How can I customize the bang bang sauce?

You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha and include nutritional yeast for extra flavor if desired.

How do I ensure my cauliflower stays crispy?

To keep your Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower crispy, avoid overcrowding on the baking tray and store leftovers properly before reheating.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is not only delicious and crispy but also versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course over rice. Feel free to customize the sauce or add extra toppings like avocado or nuts to enhance its flavor. Give this simple recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful taste!