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Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower

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This crispy air fryer bang bang cauliflower is a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer featuring golden, crunchy cauliflower florets tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for parties, game nights, or guilt-free snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower (about 1.75 lbs), cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk or regular milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayo works great)
  • 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • Thinly sliced green onions (optional garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
  • Lime wedges (optional garnish)
  • Oil spray (for air fryer)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry cauliflower. Cut into small, even florets (about 1 to 1.5 inches). Pat dry with a paper towel if needed.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth and thick enough to coat.
  3. Pour panko breadcrumbs into a separate bowl. Optionally, mix in a pinch of salt or paprika.
  4. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off. Roll in panko, pressing gently so crumbs stick. Place battered pieces on a baking sheet.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Arrange cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Spray lightly with oil. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. Add 2–3 more minutes if needed.
  7. While cauliflower cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl. Adjust heat or sweetness to taste.
  8. Transfer hot cauliflower to a bowl, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and toss to coat. Alternatively, serve sauce on the side for dipping.
  9. Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and panko. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan mayo. Double-dip in panko for extra crunch. Keep batches warm in the oven at 200°F if serving a crowd. Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for best crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, bang bang cauliflower, crispy cauliflower, vegetarian appetizer, gluten-free option, spicy snack, party food, vegan option

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/crispy-air-fryer-bang-bang-cauliflower-recipe-with-creamy-sauce/