Bang Bang Broccoli

This crispy, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang Broccoli is a lighter, plant-based take on the popular restaurant appetizer. Made entirely in the oven (or air fryer), it's tossed in a bold, sweet chili sauce for a perfect game-day snack, party starter, or veggie-packed side dish that’s totally addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy without deep-frying – baked (or air-fried) to golden perfection

• Vegan and dairy-free – made with plant-based ingredients

• Versatile – works with broccoli or cauliflower

• Fast and easy – ready in about 30 minutes

• Perfectly spicy and creamy – thanks to the signature Bang Bang sauce

• Kid-friendly – mild enough for little taste buds (or adjust spice)

• Great for parties – a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side

• Free from animal products – a great plant-forward choice

• Air fryer-friendly – easy to adapt for even crispier results

• Restaurant quality at home – no greasy cleanup

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sauce
1 cup vegan mayonnaise
⅓ cup chili paste
3 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon agave nectar or maple syrup

For the Broccoli
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons chili paste
½ cup cornstarch
1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
Juice of half a lemon
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder
½ tablespoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup breadcrumbs
4 cups broccoli florets

Directions

1. Preheat oven:

   • Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

2. Make the Bang Bang sauce:

   • In a large bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, chili paste, water, and agave or maple syrup. Set aside.

3. Prepare the batter:

   • In another large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, chili paste, plant-based milk, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to form a thick batter.

4. Coat the broccoli:

   • Add the broccoli florets to the batter and mix with your hands or a spoon until fully coated.

5. Bread the broccoli:

   • Working in batches, transfer coated florets to a bowl of breadcrumbs. Coat evenly, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.

6. Bake:

   • Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

7. Toss in sauce:

   • Remove from the oven and gently toss the hot broccoli in the prepared sauce until well coated.

8. Final bake:

   • Return the sauced broccoli to the baking sheet and bake for another 3 to 5 minutes.

9. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes (plus 3–5 minutes after saucing)
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use cauliflower: Swap the broccoli for cauliflower florets for a different texture.

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

• Try it in an air fryer: Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

• Less spicy: Use less chili paste or swap for sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor.

• Extra crispy: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for even more crunch.

• Double the sauce: Make extra sauce to serve on the side for dipping.

• Add sesame seeds to breadcrumbs: For more flavor and texture.

• Add crushed nuts: Like roasted peanuts or cashews for garnish.

• Use panko: For an extra-crispy crust.

• Make it a bowl: Serve over rice or noodles with shredded cabbage and carrots.

Storage/Reheating

To store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To reheat:
Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

To freeze:
Freezing is not recommended as it can make the coating soggy once thawed and reheated.

FAQs

Can I use cauliflower instead of broccoli?

Yes! Cauliflower works just as well in this recipe and can be used in the same way with no changes needed.

Is Bang Bang sauce vegan?

This version is! Just make sure to use vegan mayonnaise and check the chili paste for animal products.

Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

You can, but the texture won’t be as crispy. Try crushed cornflakes or panko as an alternative.

What’s the best chili paste to use?

Use your favorite! Sambal oelek or gochujang are great options, but sweet chili sauce works for a milder version.

How spicy is this recipe?

Moderately spicy. You can adjust the heat by using more or less chili paste to taste.

Can I prepare it in advance?

You can prep the sauce and batter ahead of time, but coat and bake the broccoli just before serving for best texture.

What plant-based milk should I use?

Any unsweetened variety works well—soy, almond, oat, or cashew milk are all good choices.

Do I need to flip the broccoli while baking?

No need if they’re spaced out well, but you can flip halfway through for even browning.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can be made gluten-free with GF flour and breadcrumbs.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Extra Bang Bang sauce is perfect, or try a vegan ranch or garlic aioli for variety.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Broccoli is the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and spicy—all while being completely plant-based and oven-baked. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a side dish, or just craving something bold and flavorful, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Try it once, and it’ll be a go-to favorite!