Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Crispy, flavorful, and completely plant-based, these Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a tasty appetizer, or want a satisfying entrée over rice, this dish fits the bill perfectly. The combination of a crunchy batter and a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce makes these cauliflower wings truly irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The unique bang bang sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, elevating the mild flavor of cauliflower.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these vegan wings as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. They pair well with rice or can be served on their own.
• Healthy Alternative: This recipe is completely plant-based, making it a guilt-free option for those seeking healthier meal choices.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, everyone—vegan or not—will love these crispy bites.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with your Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower, make sure you have the essential tools ready for preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Air fryer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: A sturdy baking tray is essential for even cooking and crispiness.
• Silicone baking mat: This tool helps prevent sticking and allows for extra crispy cauliflower without using excess oil.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls ensures that you can easily mix your batter and sauce without mess.

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 (gluten-free if needed)

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 air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking tray with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper for best results.

Step 2: Batter and Panko Coating

In a medium bowl:
1. Mix together the flour, granulated onion, garlic, ground ginger, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the non-dairy milk.
3. Whisk until smooth; the batter should be thick but still drip off a spoon.
4. Place some Panko bread crumbs in a separate wide bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter:
1. Ensure all sides are coated; let excess batter drip off.
2. Roll each battered floret in Panko bread crumbs until fully coated.
3. Place on the lined baking tray with space between each floret.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Baking Method:
– Bake for 15 minutes. Flip each piece and bake for another 15 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes after they turn golden brown.

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

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

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

Step 6: Toss and Serve

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

How to Serve Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or main course, this dish can elevate any meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enjoy your crispy cauliflower.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with toothpicks for easy eating at parties or gatherings.
• Pair with a dipping sauce like extra bang bang sauce or sweet chili for a flavor boost.

Over Rice

• Place the crispy cauliflower on a bed of steamed rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle additional bang bang sauce over the top for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Use small corn tortillas to create delicious vegan tacos.
• Top with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and cilantro for freshness.

With Salad

• Add the cauliflower to a mixed green salad for added crunch and protein.
• Toss with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bang bang sauce.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside your favorite plant-based entrée for a complete meal.
• Great with dishes like vegan burgers or grilled vegetables.

On Pizza

• Sprinkle the crispy cauliflower on top of pizza before baking.
• Combine with fresh vegetables and your favorite vegan cheese for a twist on traditional pizza.

How to Perfect Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

To achieve the best results for your Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower, follow these simple tips that ensure perfect crispiness and flavor.

• Choose Fresh Cauliflower: Selecting fresh cauliflower will guarantee better texture and taste in your dish.
• Use Cold Non-Dairy Milk: Cold milk helps create a lighter batter that adheres well to the cauliflower.
• Don’t Rush the Coating: Ensure each floret is thoroughly coated in both batter and Panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunchiness.
• Space Them Out: When baking or air frying, leave space between each piece so they cook evenly without steaming.
• Adjust Spice Levels: For milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce according to your preference.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the cauliflower right after cooking for optimal crispiness; it can lose its texture if left out too long.

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Best Side Dishes for Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Pairing side dishes with Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious side that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with veggies that provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy cauliflower.
3. Garlic Noodles: Flavorful noodles tossed in garlic and herbs make for an irresistible pairing.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries offer a sweet contrast, making them perfect alongside the spicy bang bang cauliflower.
5. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice adds richness while balancing out the spiciness of the dish.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and creaminess that works well with the crispy texture of the cauliflower.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a savory element that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the sauce.
8. Hummus Platter: Serve with assorted veggies and pita bread for a colorful, healthy option on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right.

• Skipping the Panko: Not using Panko bread crumbs can result in less crispy cauliflower. Always opt for Panko for that extra crunch.
• Under-seasoning the Batter: Forgetting to season the batter can lead to bland cauliflower. Be sure to add enough spices and salt for flavor.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many florets on the tray can prevent proper crisping. Leave space between each piece for even cooking.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not keeping an eye on cooking times may lead to undercooked or overcooked cauliflower. Use a timer and check for golden brown color.
• Using Sweetened Non-Dairy Milk: Sweetened plant milk can alter the flavor of your dish. Always choose unsweetened varieties for this recipe.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

• Place cooled cauliflower in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower?

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is a tasty dish made from battered and fried cauliflower florets tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main dish.

How do I make the sauce vegan-friendly?

To make the sauce vegan-friendly, use vegan mayo instead of regular mayo. This will ensure all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I bake Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower instead of frying it?

Yes! You can bake it at 425°F (218°C) for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, to achieve a similar crunchy texture without frying.

What should I serve with Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower?

This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa, making it a satisfying main course or side dish. You can also serve it with fresh vegetables.

How do I customize Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower?

Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less sriracha in the bang bang sauce. You can also add different herbs or toppings like cilantro or lime juice for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or serve it over rice as a meal, its flavors are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or sauces!

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