Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe is a delightful spin on a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dining table. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this recipe features crispy cauliflower bites tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that your family will love. It’s an easy, budget-friendly option that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy!
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is not just another veggie dish—it’s a delightful explosion of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. The air fryer provides that perfect crunch without the guilt of deep frying, making it a healthier option. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up!
“This Bang Bang Cauliflower has become a staple in our house! The kids love it, and I can throw it together in no time!” – Jessica, a satisfied reader.
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe
Get ready to embrace deliciousness! This recipe involves breading cauliflower florets and air frying them until they are crispy and golden. While they’re cooking, you’ll prepare a tasty sauce to drizzle on top. It’s really that simple!
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Ingredients
Gather these items to create your masterpiece:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with gluten-free flour if needed)
- 2 large eggs (beaten, or use a vegan alternative)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF option)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo for a vegan version)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (or a vegan sweetener)
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each floret in flour, dip them into beaten eggs, and then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the florets to ensure they stick well.
- Place the breaded cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
- While the cauliflower is cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, and hot sauce in a bowl. Adjust the seasoning to your personal taste.
- Once the cauliflower is done, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with optional green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These crispy cauliflower bites are fabulous on their own but also make for an excellent starter or side dish. Serve them alongside a refreshing salad, some sticky rice, or even as part of a veggie platter. Don’t forget to have extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping—you’ll need it!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which can be hard to imagine given how delicious these are), store any uneaten cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crunch!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- If you want an extra crunch, consider double-coating your cauliflower by dipping them in the egg and breadcrumbs twice.
- Don’t forget to preheat your air fryer; it helps achieve that crispy finish.
- Experiment with the sauce! You can add more hot sauce for a spicier kick or mix in some garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Consider tossing in some shredded coconut with the panko breadcrumbs for a tropical twist. You can also try different sauces like buffalo or sriracha for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking takes about 15 minutes. So, you can enjoy this dish in roughly 25-30 minutes.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free versions.
What if I want a vegan option?
You can easily substitute the eggs with a plant-based alternative and use vegan mayo.
Now that you know how to whip up this extraordinary Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower, gather your ingredients and get cooking! Your family will thank you for this delightful, comforting dish. Happy cooking!
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Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delightful spin on a classic dish featuring crispy cauliflower bites tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 2 large eggs (beaten, or vegan alternative)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (or vegan sweetener)
- 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each floret in flour, dip them into beaten eggs, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Place the breaded cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- While the cauliflower cooks, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, and hot sauce in a bowl.
- Once the cauliflower is done, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crunch, double-coat the cauliflower. Experiment with different sauces for varied flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg