Bang Bang Cauliflower Florets (Printable)

Crispy cauliflower with spicy-sweet creamy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or side, packed with bold flavors.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Cauliflower

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
02 - 2/3 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 milk, dairy or unsweetened plant-based
09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil, for drizzling

→ For the Bang Bang Sauce

10 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise or vegan mayonnaise
11 - 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon Sriracha, or to taste
13 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
14 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
15 - Pinch of salt

→ For Garnish

16 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh scallions
17 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, optional

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
03 - Add milk to dry mixture and whisk until a smooth, thick batter forms.
04 - Add cauliflower florets to the batter and toss to coat each piece thoroughly.
05 - Transfer battered cauliflower to the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
06 - Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway, until cauliflower is golden brown and crisp.
07 - While cauliflower is roasting, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.
08 - When roasted, transfer cauliflower to a large bowl. Add Bang Bang Sauce and toss gently until evenly coated.
09 - Arrange sauced cauliflower on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

# Cooking Tips:

01 -
  • Uses basic pantry staples and simple produce
  • Naturally vegetarian with easy vegan and gluten-free swaps
  • Ready in just forty five minutes from start to finish
  • Delivers crispy texture without deep frying
02 -
  • Packed with plant based fiber for satisfying snacking
  • Skip deep frying for a lighter but still crispy appetizer
  • Keeps its texture for a while after baking perfect for gatherings
03 -
  • Pat cauliflower completely dry so the batter clings and crisps up properly
  • Mix the batter until smooth for an even coating on every piece
  • Roast at a high temperature and turn halfway for consistent browning
  • Use fresh garnishes to add contrast and color before serving
  • Try a light spray of oil if you want a little extra crunch besides drizzling

Go Back