Bang Bang Cauliflower is a crispy cauliflower dish inspired by the famous “Bang Bang Shrimp.” It gets its name from the bold sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha. Gordon Ramsay’s version keeps things simple yet refined — focusing on texture, balance, and flavor. The cauliflower is crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a sauce that’s the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and creamy.
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
¾ cup cold water (adjust as needed for batter consistency)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil spray (for air fryer or baking)
¼ cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon lime juice
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease your air fryer basket.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add cold water until you achieve a smooth, thick batter that coats the cauliflower evenly.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, shaking off the excess. Arrange them in a single layer on the tray or air fryer basket without overcrowding.
For oven: Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
For air fryer: Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until crispy and browned.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Once the cauliflower is done, let it cool for a minute, then toss it gently in the Bang Bang sauce or drizzle the sauce over the top before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and cilantro.