Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

This roasted cauliflower recipe features a delightful blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors, topped with a creamy sweet Thai chili sauce. It's the perfect side dish or a healthy snack!

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, cored and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sriracha, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chives (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450F (230C) and line a 12x18-inch sheet pan with aluminum foil.

Step 2: In a large bowl, toss cauliflower pieces with olive oil to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Arrange the cauliflower pieces in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.

Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together granulated garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and white pepper.

Step 5: Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the cauliflower pieces, ensuring each piece is coated with the seasoning.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is just barely tender.

Step 7: While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the sauce by stirring together mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, and onion powder in a small bowl.

Step 8: Once the cauliflower is done baking, drizzle about half of the prepared sauce over the cauliflower pieces. Reserve the remaining sauce for serving.

Step 9: Stir the cauliflower gently to mix the sauce and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cauliflower reaches your desired level of doneness.

Step 10: Once baked, garnish with sesame seeds and fresh snipped chives, if desired. Serve with the reserved sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 279
• Total Fat: 26g (34% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (20% DV)
• Cholesterol: 12mg (4% DV)
• Sodium: 807mg (35% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 9g (3% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% DV)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 3g (6% DV)
• Vitamin C: 44mg (49% DV)
• Calcium: 25mg (2% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (5% DV)
• Potassium: 245mg (5% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

Bang Bang Cauliflower is a modern twist on the popular "Bang Bang" sauce, which is often paired with shrimp or chicken in American-Chinese cuisine. The name "Bang Bang" is thought to refer to the bold and explosive flavors of the sauce, which combines sweetness, spiciness, and creaminess. The cauliflower variation emerged as a plant-based alternative for vegetarians and vegans looking for a crispy, flavorful dish without meat. While the origins of the exact recipe are not well-documented, the dish has become a popular offering at modern eateries that specialize in plant-based or Asian-inspired comfort food.

Regional Variations

Bang Bang Cauliflower reflects the growing trend of vegetarian and plant-based dishes in global cuisine, especially in Western countries. In regions where Asian-American fusion cuisine thrives, such as the United States, the dish is often served as an appetizer or side dish in trendy restaurants and food trucks. However, in Southeast Asia, similar dishes feature local vegetables like broccoli or bok choy, but cauliflower is still a common alternative. The use of sweet Thai chili sauce, a key ingredient, gives the dish a distinct Southeast Asian flavor that resonates with food lovers worldwide.

Difference from Similar Dishes

Although Bang Bang Cauliflower shares some similarities with other crispy vegetable dishes, it stands out due to the unique flavor of the "Bang Bang" sauce. Unlike standard breaded or battered cauliflower, which may focus on a neutral seasoning or a simple batter, this dish combines a rich mix of mayonnaise, soy sauce, sesame oil, and spicy Sriracha, creating a tangy, creamy, and spicy coating. This differentiates it from other crispy cauliflower dishes like buffalo cauliflower, which leans heavily on hot sauce and butter for its flavor profile.

Where It's Usually Served

Bang Bang Cauliflower is often found on the menu at fusion restaurants, especially those offering vegetarian or vegan options. It is popular in casual dining spots, Asian fusion eateries, and food trucks, as well as being served at home as a creative side dish or appetizer. It can also be seen as part of a plant-based menu at events and gatherings, where its bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. The dish is frequently accompanied by a side of rice or as part of a larger shared meal with other appetizers like spring rolls or dumplings.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that cauliflower is considered a "superfood" due to its high levels of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins? This humble vegetable has gained immense popularity in recent years as a healthy alternative to grains and starches. In addition to being versatile in dishes like cauliflower rice and cauliflower pizza crust, it's now being celebrated in dishes like Bang Bang Cauliflower, proving that healthy food can be just as indulgent and flavorful.

Another fun fact is that the "Bang Bang" sauce, which features sweet chili sauce and Sriracha, is widely used in Asian-American cuisine but can also be adapted to suit different heat preferences. Some people add extra spice with chili flakes or fresh chili peppers, while others balance the heat with more mayonnaise or yogurt to cool it down. It's a sauce that can be adjusted to create a truly unique experience every time you make it!

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