Vegan Bang Bang Broccoli (or Cauliflower)

Servings

3–4 servings

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

20–25 minutes (oven) or 12–15 minutes (air fryer)

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 large head broccoli or cauliflower

• Cut into bite-size florets and dried thoroughly

Crispy Coating

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked or regular paprika

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking

• 1½ tablespoons neutral oil (avocado, canola, or olive oil)

Vegan Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup vegan mayonnaise

• 2–3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

• 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to heat preference)

• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave (optional)

• Pinch of salt

Whisk all sauce ingredients until smooth and set aside.

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (205°C).

2. Place florets in a large bowl and toss with oil until lightly coated.

3. Sprinkle cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetables.

4. Toss until evenly coated and no dry patches remain.

2. Cook until crispy

Oven Method

1. Spread florets in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

2. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp at the edges.

Air Fryer Method

1. Arrange florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

2. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy.

3. Sauce and serve

1. Transfer hot vegetables to a clean bowl.

2. Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce and toss gently to coat.

   • For maximum crispiness, drizzle lightly instead of fully tossing.

3. Serve immediately.

Optional Garnishes

• Sliced green onions

• Sesame seeds

• Extra sriracha or chili flakes

Tips

• Dry vegetables thoroughly before coating to ensure crisp results.

• Cornstarch creates a light, crunchy coating without breading.

• Sauce just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Variations

• Extra crispy: add 1 tablespoon panko breadcrumbs

• Oil-free: skip oil and roast slightly longer

• Gluten-free: ensure sweet chili sauce is gluten-free

• Meal-style: serve over rice or in lettuce wraps