Do Share Recipe

Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe | Spicy & Crispy Veggie Snack

I have to admit, I was a little skeptical the first time I tried making Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe at home. But after taking a bite, I was instantly hooked! The combination of crispy cauliflower with that sweet, spicy bang bang sauce is pure magic. I love how this recipe is both indulgent and vegan-friendly, making it perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a main dish.

It’s become one of my favorite go-to recipes whenever I want something crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying. You can also enjoy similar creamy flavors in a Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine Recipe for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible dish. Each ingredient is chosen to bring out the best flavor and texture.

Cauliflower

1 large head cauliflower, about 5 cups florets – Fresh cauliflower works best; avoid frozen for a crispier result.
1 cup unsweetened soy milk – Helps create a light batter. You can substitute with almond, oat, or cashew milk.
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar – Reacts with the milk to make a slightly tangy coating.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the batter.
1/2 cup cornstarch – Ensures a crunchy exterior.
2 teaspoons garlic powder – Adds savory depth.
2 teaspoons onion powder – Complements the garlic and balances flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all other flavors.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Gives an extra crispy coating.

Bang Bang Sauce

1/2 cup vegan mayo – Creamy base for the sauce.
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and heat.
1 tablespoon Sriracha hot sauce – Gives a kick without overpowering.
2 tablespoons agave – Balances the spice with mild sweetness.

Note: Serves 8 generously.

Variations

Dairy-free: Use any plant-based milk for the batter.
Gluten-free: Swap flour and panko with a gluten-free mix or crushed cornflakes.
Flavor boosters: Add smoked paprika or chili flakes to the batter for extra heat.
Veggie swap: Broccoli florets or even tofu work well instead of cauliflower.

You might also like a hearty Best Shepherds Pie Recipe for a comforting dinner alternative.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Equipment You Need

Baking sheet – For even roasting and crispiness.
Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Mixing bowls – One for batter, one for sauce.
Whisk – For smooth batter and sauce.
Oven – For baking cauliflower to perfection.

How to Make Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe?

Preheat and Prep Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, making sure they are uniform for even cooking. This step ensures a perfectly crispy texture.

Batter the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, mix the soy milk and apple cider vinegar and let it sit for a minute to curdle. Add flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt, whisking until smooth. Coat the cauliflower in this mixture so every floret is lightly covered.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Toss the battered cauliflower in panko breadcrumbs to form a crispy layer. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum crunch after baking.

Bake Until Crispy

Arrange the coated cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. The cauliflower should feel firm and slightly crunchy to the touch.

Prepare Bang Bang Sauce

While the cauliflower bakes, mix vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and agave in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. Adjust spice or sweetness to taste.

Toss with Sauce

Once baked, toss the cauliflower in the prepared bang bang sauce. For extra crispiness, return the coated florets to the oven for another 5 minutes so the sauce sets slightly.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I like to spray the cauliflower lightly with oil before baking for extra crispiness.
I often let the batter sit a few minutes before adding cauliflower; it makes the coating stick better.
I sometimes double the sauce if I want a saucier dish for dipping.
I prefer fresh cauliflower over frozen because it stays firmer and doesn’t get soggy.

How to Serve Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe?

This dish looks amazing on a platter with a drizzle of extra bang bang sauce on top. I love serving it with chopped green onions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for color. It pairs well with rice, tacos, or as a finger-food appetizer during game night.

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you get per serving (approximate):

Calories: 180
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 9g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

You can store leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually reheat it in the oven to retain the crunch.

Freezing

While I don’t recommend freezing after adding sauce, you can freeze the plain baked cauliflower for up to a month. Reheat and toss with sauce when ready.

Reheating

I always reheat in the oven at 400°F for 5-10 minutes to keep the coating crispy. Microwaving tends to make it soggy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Bang Bang Cauliflower is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons:

Quick and Easy: I can whip it up in under an hour without fuss.
Vegan-Friendly: Perfect for plant-based diets without compromising flavor.
Customizable: I can tweak the spice, sweetness, or coating to suit my taste.
Versatile: Works as a snack, appetizer, or main course.
Crispy & Flavorful: Every bite is a perfect balance of crunchy and saucy.

Ben Carraoli