Bang Bang Cauliflower

I just randomly came across this recipe, it sounded delicious, and low and behold, it was!!!  Cauliflower absorbs the flavors of what it's being seasoned with.  Therefore, its a GREAT base for wonderful, flavorful dishes.  Cauliflower is also super trendy right now.  It's being used a substitute for calorie rich foods, so instead of chicken nuggets, there are cauliflower nuggets!!  There is also cauliflower rice, and cauliflower steak!!  I love a hearty, versatile ingredient that can be used in multiple ways!!

Bang Bang Cauliflower 

1 medium-large head of caulilflower, cut into bite sized florets

2 eggs, slightly beaten

2 cups panko bread crumbs

1/4 cup mayo (I've successfully substituted plain Greek yogurt!)

1/2 cup sweet chili sauce

1 Tablespoon brown sugar

Siracha to taste

Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, line a rimmed baking sheet for easy clean up.  Spray baking sheet with cooking spray.

Set up your work space.  Have your bowl of cauliflower florets in a large bowl, next to that have a small bowl with the beaten eggs.  And, finally a medium-large bowl with panko bread crumbs.  Season the eggs and the panko with salt and pepper.  Dip the cauliflower florets into the beaten eggs, making sure they're completely coated.  Then dip the egg coated florets into the panko, gently shake the bowl to make sure the florets get covered in panko.  Place breaded florets on prepared baking sheets, and bake until cooked, about 30-35 minutes.

While the cauliflower is baking, make your sauce.  In a large bowl bombine the mayo, (or Greek yogurt), chili sauce, brown sugar, and Siracha in a bowl.  Mix until are well combined.  Taste!  Adjust seasonings as needed.

When the cauliflower is fork tender, remove from oven.  Let cool about 5 minutes, and then put in bowl with bang-bang sauce.  Gently fold sauce over the cauliflower until it's covered in sauce.  Pour cauliflower onto serving dish, and garnish with fresh, finely chopped parsley.

Cheers!!