Bang Bang Cauliflower (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Sauce for Coating
01 -
1/4 cup sambal oelek or any spicy chili paste (sriracha is fine too!)
02 -
1/2 cup plant-based mayo
03 -
2 tablespoons agave syrup or maple syrup
→ Cauliflower Mixture
04 -
3/4 cup regular or gluten-free flour
05 -
1 whole cauliflower chopped into florets
06 -
1/2 cup cornstarch
07 -
1 tablespoon chili paste of your choice
08 -
3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk alternative) combined with 2 tsp lemon juice
09 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
11 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
12 -
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
→ Crumb Coating
13 -
1 cup crunchy Panko with a dash of pepper, garlic, onion powder, and salt
→ Toppings
14 -
Sprinkle of sesame seeds to finish
# Instructions:
01 -
Use a bowl to combine plant-based mayo, sambal oelek, and syrup until it’s silky and smooth. Set it on standby as you prep the cauliflower.
02 -
Preheat to 450°F (or 230°C). Cover your baking tray with a silicone sheet or lightly oiled foil to keep things from sticking.
03 -
Combine flour, cornstarch, lemony plant milk, chili paste, and spices in one big mixing bowl. Stir it well till it’s got that sticky tempura consistency. Too runny? Toss in more flour. Too thick? Add milk!
04 -
Dip the florets in the batter till they’re well-covered. Then, roll each piece in seasoned breadcrumbs before laying them on your prepared tray. No crowding!
05 -
Cook the battered cauliflower for 22 minutes so they reach that crispy golden color. Double-check that your oven is hot before baking!
06 -
Carefully coat the baked cauliflower friends in your creamy sauce. Move them gently on the baking tray to cover every corner.
07 -
Pop them back in your hot oven for another 1-2 minutes. This lets the sauce soak in just a little more.
08 -
Scatter sesame seeds over the top and serve these crispy bites immediately while they’re fresh and delicious.
# Notes:
01 -
These crunchy bites are the perfect mix of sweet and spicy, with a creamy sauce that clings to each piece.
02 -
Adjust the heat easily by changing how much chili paste you add to the batter or sauce.
03 -
Serve it fresh for parties or make it the centerpiece with some rice and roasted veggies.