Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Crispy, flavorful, and completely plant-based, these Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings are a delicious choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe delivers all the crunch and flavor you desire. Coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a creamy bang bang sauce, they are sure to impress vegans and non-vegans alike!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

This dish is more than just a tasty treat; it offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try!

• Crispy Texture: The Panko bread crumbs create an irresistible crunch that complements the tender cauliflower.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course over rice for a satisfying meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and vegan mayo provides a delightful balance of spicy and sweet.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from cauliflower and made without any animal products, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: It provides an even surface for roasting the cauliflower, ensuring consistent cooking.
• Silicone baking mat: This tool helps achieve extra crispiness while preventing sticking during baking.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing the batter without spilling.

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 (use 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

How to Make Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Step 1: Preheat 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 optimal crispiness.

Step 2: Batter and Panko Coating

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, granulated onion, garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the non-dairy milk. Whisk until smooth; aim for a thick batter that still drips off a spoon. Place some Panko bread crumbs into another wide bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring all sides are covered. Allow excess batter to drip off. Roll each battered floret in the Panko bread crumbs until fully coated. Arrange the coated cauliflower on your prepared baking tray with space between pieces.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

For baking: Bake the cauliflower for 15 minutes. Flip each piece and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

For air frying: Arrange florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (205°C) for about 15–25 minutes, shaking halfway through until they reach your desired crispiness.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While your cauliflower cooks, prepare the sauce by mixing together the 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 crispy, toss your cauliflower wings in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving them immediately on their own or over rice for an added touch!

How to Serve Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, it pairs well with many accompaniments.

As an Appetizer

• Dipping Sauce: Serve with extra bang bang sauce or your favorite vegan ranch for a delightful dip.
• Veggie Platter: Pair with fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a colorful starter.

Over Rice

• Steamed Rice: Serve the cauliflower over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a hearty meal.
• Coconut Rice: For added flavor, try coconut rice which complements the bang bang sauce beautifully.

In Tacos

• Cauliflower Tacos: Fill soft corn tortillas with the crispy cauliflower and top with avocado and cilantro for a flavorful bite.
• Bowl Style: Create a taco bowl by layering cauliflower, brown rice, black beans, and your choice of toppings.

Salad Topping

• Mixed Greens: Add to a salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers for a nutritious boost.
• Coleslaw: Toss pieces into coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

To achieve the best results when making Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Coating Technique: Ensure each floret is evenly coated in the batter before rolling in Panko for maximum crunch.
• Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times—ovens may vary. Adjust as needed to achieve golden-brown perfection.
• Bold Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for extra heat in the batter.
• Bold Sauce Mixing: Whisk the bang bang sauce thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency; this ensures even coating on the florets.
• Bold Air Frying Tips: If using an air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Bold Garnishing Choices: Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumber and tomatoes adds nutrition and texture.
2. Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale brings a nutritious balance to your plate.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the spicy cauliflower.
4. Coconut Curry Lentils: Creamy lentils cooked in coconut milk make a hearty side that complements the flavors well.
5. Ramen Noodle Salad: A chilled ramen noodle salad adds crunch and tang with its dressing.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides color and balance alongside your cauliflower dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Panko: Not using Panko breadcrumbs can lead to less crispy cauliflower. Be sure to coat each floret thoroughly for that desired crunch.
• Inconsistent Coating: Failing to coat evenly can result in uneven texture. Make sure each piece is well-covered with both the batter and breadcrumbs.
• Overcrowding the Baking Tray: Placing too many florets on a tray can cause steaming instead of crisping. Leave space between each piece for optimal air circulation.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not following the recommended baking or air frying times may lead to undercooked or burnt cauliflower. Keep an eye on them for the best results.
• Using Flavored Non-Dairy Milk: Choosing sweetened or flavored non-dairy milk can alter the taste of your batter. Stick with unsweetened varieties for a balanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for 3–5 days.

Freezing Instructions

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

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes for extra crispiness.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes, but note this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and Panko breadcrumbs. They provide the same delicious texture without gluten.

Can I make Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and coat the cauliflower ahead of time, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it.

What can I serve with Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower?

These flavorful florets pair well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer at parties!

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce according to your spice preference.

Can I use different vegetables instead of cauliflower?

Yes! This recipe works well with other vegetables like broccoli or tofu if you’re looking for variety.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower is not only crispy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course over rice, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with additional spices or different dipping sauces!