Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower Bites (Printable)
Crispy battered cauliflower florets with creamy spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce coating.
# List of ingredients:
→ Cauliflower
01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
→ Batter & Coating
02 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/2 cup cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
08 - 3/4 cup cold water
09 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
→ Bang Bang Sauce
10 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
11 - 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon sriracha
13 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
14 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
→ Garnish
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
16 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add cold water, whisking until a smooth, thick batter forms.
03 - Place panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish for coating.
04 - Working in batches, dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, then roll in panko to coat completely. Arrange florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
05 - Lightly spray or drizzle the coated florets with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
06 - While the cauliflower bakes, mix all Bang Bang sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
07 - Once cooked, transfer cauliflower bites to a large bowl. Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce and toss gently to coat, or serve sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- That perfect crunch followed by the creamy spicy sauce is absolutely irresistible
- They disappear faster than any other appetizer I've ever served
02 -
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet or the cauliflower will steam instead of crisp up
- Let them cool for just 2 minutes after baking before tossing in sauce so they stay crunchy
03 -
- Use vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup to make these plant based without sacrificing flavor
- Cut the cauliflower into slightly larger pieces than you think you need, they shrink during baking