Description

Delight in this crispy, flavorful Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe where bite-sized cauliflower florets are coated in a seasoned batter and Panko breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection, and then tossed in a creamy, spicy, and tangy Bang Bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, this vegetarian-friendly dish offers a satisfying crunch and a tantalizing blend of flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Batter & Coating

1 cup all-purpose flour
⅔ cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
2 pints cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 ⅓ cups Panko breadcrumbs
Olive oil for drizzling (approximately 2 tablespoons)

Bang Bang Sauce

¾ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
3 teaspoons Sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 420°F (215°C) using natural convection or static heat mode to ensure even baking and crispiness.
Prepare Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, milk, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Coat Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Dip each floret into the batter, making sure it is fully coated to help the breadcrumbs adhere properly.
Apply Breadcrumbs: Roll or sprinkle the batter-coated florets in Panko breadcrumbs to create a crunchy exterior.
Arrange for Baking: Place the breaded cauliflower florets on a parchment-lined baking tray in a single layer. Drizzle olive oil evenly over them to promote browning and crispness.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the florets turn golden brown and develop a crispy texture. Flip halfway if needed for even baking.
Make Bang Bang Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha sauce, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning as desired for balanced heat and tang.
Toss and Serve: Once the cauliflower is baked and crispy, transfer it to a large bowl, pour the Bang Bang sauce over, and toss until each floret is fully coated. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Ensure florets are dried well before dipping in batter to prevent sogginess.
The drizzling of olive oil before baking is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior without frying.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven for best crispness.
Adding fresh chopped scallions or cilantro on top before serving adds a fresh note.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Bang Bang Cauliflower, baked cauliflower, crispy cauliflower, vegetarian appetizer, spicy cauliflower bites, healthy snack