Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower (Ready-to-Print Version)

Cauliflower florets air-fried until crispy, finished with creamy, spicy chili-lime sauce. Quick and crowd-pleasing.

# What You’ll Need:

→ For the Cauliflower

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 6 cups)
02 - 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
07 - 3/4 cup buttermilk
08 - 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
09 - Olive oil spray, as needed

→ For the Bang Bang Sauce

10 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
11 - 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
12 - 1 1/2 tablespoons sriracha
13 - 1 tablespoon honey
14 - 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice

→ For Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Trim the cauliflower and cut into uniform bite-sized florets. Rinse and pat completely dry for optimal coating adhesion.
02 - Set out three shallow bowls. In the first, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour buttermilk into the second bowl. Fill the third with panko breadcrumbs.
03 - Working in batches, coat each cauliflower floret in the seasoned flour, then dip in buttermilk, then press into panko to coat thoroughly. Shake off excess at each step.
04 - Arrange breaded florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—air fry in multiple batches if necessary.
05 - Lightly mist the tops with olive oil spray. Air fry at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
06 - In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
07 - Drizzle bang bang sauce over the hot cauliflower or serve alongside for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately for best texture.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Adjust sriracha amount to control heat level in the sauce.
02 - For gluten-free adaptation, use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko.
03 - Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
04 - Double the sauce and refrigerate extra for sandwiches or snacks.
05 - Bang bang sauce is inspired by Asian-American fusion flavors.

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