Introduction:
Bang Bang Cauliflower is a beloved dish known for its crispy texture and bold flavors. However, for those following a vegan lifestyle or looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet, traditional recipes may pose a challenge. Fear not! This Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe is here to deliver the same mouthwatering experience without any animal products. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike.
Ingredients:
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup of almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
1 cup of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of breadcrumbs (ensure they’re vegan-friendly)
Cooking spray or oil for baking
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
1/2 cup of vegan mayonnaise
2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon of Sriracha sauce (adjust according to your spice preference)
1 tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar
1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
1 clove of garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond milk, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined to create the batter.
Place the breadcrumbs in another bowl.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s evenly coated, then roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the cauliflower.
Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart to allow for even baking. Lightly spray or drizzle with oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the Bang Bang Sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha sauce, maple syrup or agave nectar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and salt until well combined. Adjust the spice level and sweetness according to your taste preferences.
Once the cauliflower is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over the crispy cauliflower florets, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
Serving size: 1 cup of cauliflower florets with sauce
Calories: 180
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 380mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 4g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints: 5 points per serving
Conclusion:
Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower offers a tantalizing combination of crispy cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful sauce that’s both spicy and sweet. This recipe provides a healthier alternative to traditional Bang Bang dishes while still delivering on taste and texture. Whether you’re a vegan enthusiast or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your menu, this dish is a must-try. Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course, and delight in the satisfaction of indulging in a guilt-free, cruelty-free culinary experience.