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Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower Bites

crispy air fryer bang bang cauliflower bites - featured image

These crispy air fryer bang bang cauliflower bites are a quick, tasty, and fuss-free snack featuring a crunchy coating and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Perfect for snacking or parties, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour like almond or oat flour)
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) water, room temperature
  • Cooking spray (olive oil spray recommended)
  • 3/4 cup (75g) bread crumbs or panko
  • For the Bang Bang Sauce:
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) mayonnaise (can use vegan mayo for dairy-free)
  • 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Wash and cut the cauliflower head into bite-sized florets, about 1.5 to 2 inches each. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Gradually add water, whisking until smooth and slightly thick batter forms. Adjust water if needed.
  3. Pour panko breadcrumbs onto a shallow plate and set aside.
  4. Using tongs, dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, then roll in panko crumbs until fully coated. Place coated florets on a parchment-lined tray.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange coated florets in a single layer without overcrowding.
  7. Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through. Add 2-3 more minutes if needed for extra crispiness.
  8. While cauliflower cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder to make the bang bang sauce.
  9. Transfer cooked cauliflower bites to a large bowl, pour sauce over, and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to avoid steaming instead of crisping. Preheat the air fryer for best results. Adjust sriracha to control spice level. For vegan version, use flax egg and vegan mayo. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower bites, air fryer, bang bang sauce, crispy snack, vegetarian, vegan option, gluten-free option, healthy snack