Air Fryer Bang Bang (Print-Friendly Version)

Crispy air-fried cauliflower in creamy, spicy bang bang sauce for quick snacking or sides.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cauliflower Bites

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 3/4 cup buttermilk or milk with vinegar
08 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
09 - Olive oil spray

→ Bang Bang Sauce

10 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
11 - 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon sriracha, to taste
13 - 1 tablespoon honey
14 - 1 tablespoon lime juice

# How to Make It:

01 - Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized bite-sized florets for consistent cooking.
02 - In one bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour buttermilk into a second bowl and place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
03 - Dip each cauliflower floret in the flour mixture, then into buttermilk, and finally into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
04 - Arrange breaded florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with olive oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crisping.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
06 - Drizzle the sauce over the crispy cauliflower or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Prepare the breaded cauliflower ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to air fry for convenience.
02 - Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
03 - Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer to ensure the cauliflower crisps evenly on all sides.