If you’re looking for a delicious vegan alternative to traditional chicken wings, these butter cauliflower wings are the perfect solution. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, they’re an irresistible snack or appetizer. Paired with a spicy tahini dip, these wings bring a delightful balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a party or just a night in, this recipe will surely be a hit.
Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened plant milk (e.g., almond or soy)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup melted vegan butter
1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1/3 cup tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for extra heat)
1/4 cup water (to thin the dip)
Pinch of salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower Wings
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant milk, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until you have a smooth batter.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs to cover all sides. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden and crispy. Flip the florets halfway through to ensure even cooking.
2. Make the Vegan Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Stir in the hot sauce and mix until well combined. Remove from heat.
3. Coat the Cauliflower Wings
Once the cauliflower wings are baked, remove them from the oven and brush them generously with the vegan butter-hot sauce mixture. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
4. Prepare the Spicy Tahini Dip
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, sriracha, water, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary, until you reach a smooth, creamy dip.
5. Serve
Remove the cauliflower wings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with the spicy tahini dip on the side.
Recipe Ratings
This recipe is nutritious, with a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. However, the sodium content is moderate due to the hot sauce and vegan butter, so it could be made even healthier with reduced sodium alternatives.
The combination of crispy cauliflower, buttery hot sauce, and the spicy, creamy tahini dip is simply irresistible. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
This recipe takes around 45 minutes to prepare, including baking time. While it’s not the quickest snack, the result is well worth the effort for a delicious and satisfying dish.
Last year, while attending a local vegan food festival, I stumbled upon a food truck serving the most amazing vegan cauliflower wings. The flavor and texture were so delightful that I knew I had to try making them at home. After some trial and error, I finally perfected this recipe. I must admit, the process of getting the right level of crispiness was a bit challenging, but the end result was more than satisfying.
As someone who enjoys exploring new flavors, I found the combination of the buttery hot sauce with the cooling yet spicy tahini dip to be an exciting twist. This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of heat and crave that satisfying crunch. It’s a great dish for game days, gatherings, or even just as a fun weeknight dinner. Though it requires a bit of time and effort, it’s definitely worth it for the flavor payoff. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about plant-based eating, these cauliflower wings are sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Looking at the nutrition facts, this recipe offers a good balance of nutrients, with a relatively high amount of protein and fiber for a vegetable-based dish. The sodium content is on the higher side, likely due to the hot sauce and vegan butter, so those watching their salt intake might want to adjust accordingly. The calorie count is moderate, making it a satisfying yet not overly indulgent option. Overall, this dish is a great choice for a flavorful and fulfilling meal that doesn’t compromise on health.