Name: Irresistible Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings: Crispy Vegan Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 head Cauliflower (Cut into florets); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 cup Non-Dairy Milk (Almond, soy, or oat milk recommended); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 cup Oats (Can substitute with panko breadcrumbs); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 1 cup Teriyaki Sauce (Homemade or store-bought)

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of teriyaki wafting through your kitchen, evoking memories of family dinners and good times with friends. If you’re looking for a fun alternative to traditional appetizers, these Crispy Baked Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings are your delicious answer! Not only are they a fantastic plant-based option that will impress both vegans and meat-lovers alike, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for gatherings and weeknight snacks alike. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple baking process, you’ll love how quick and satisfying these wings are. Ready to dive into a whole new world of flavor? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Crave These Cauliflower Wings?

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze makes these wings a standout dish that everyone will love!

Easy to Prepare: With just 7 simple ingredients and a quick baking method, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time.

Plant-Based Deliciousness: Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free snack, these vegan-friendly wings satisfy cravings without the meat.

Crispy Texture: Baked to perfection, these cauliflower wings boast a crunchy exterior that’s sure to impress both vegans and meat-lovers alike.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with a vegan ranch dip or your favorite veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that suits any occasion!

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging in a cozy night in, these wings will disappear fast, leaving everyone wanting more!
Explore other delightful options like Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken for even more fun flavors!

Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings Ingredients

For the Battering
• Cauliflower Florets – The star of the show, offering a delightful crunch; substitute with broccoli florets for a fun twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates a delicious batter for the wings; swap with a gluten-free flour blend to keep it gluten-free.
• Non-Dairy Milk – Ensures the batter sticks to the cauliflower; almond, soy, or oat milk all work well, so pick your favorite!
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory flavor profile without overpowering; no need for substitutions here!
• Onion Powder – Adds a natural sweetness that complements garlic perfectly; also doesn’t require substitutions.
For the Coating
• Oats – Provides a crunchy texture that elevates the wings; panko breadcrumbs can be an exciting alternative.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor; feel free to adjust to your personal taste or use sea salt for a gourmet touch.
For the Finishing Touch
• Teriyaki Sauce – The magical glaze that ties everything together; you can use homemade or store-bought for convenience!

These Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings are bound to become a new favorite—delicious and easy to prepare!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 220ºC (425ºF). While it warms up, line a large baking sheet with baking paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your teriyaki cauliflower wings bake evenly and come out perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Prepare Cauliflower
Take a fresh head of cauliflower and cut it into relatively equal-sized florets, ensuring each piece is about 1 to 2 inches wide. This uniformity is crucial for even cooking, helping each floret to achieve that delightful crunch when baked.

Step 3: Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, non-dairy milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until you have a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower florets nicely, creating a delicious base for your crispy baked teriyaki cauliflower wings.

Step 4: Coat Cauliflower
Toss the prepared cauliflower florets in the batter until each piece is well-coated. Make sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor and texture. The batter will act as the glue for the crunchy coating that will soon follow.

Step 5: Create Crunchy Coating
Transfer the battered florets into a separate bowl filled with oats. Roll each piece in the oats, ensuring they are completely covered to achieve that irresistible crunch. Spread the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the teriyaki cauliflower wings for 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for a golden-brown color with a crispy exterior—this is the magic of your oven at work!

Step 7: Prepare Teriyaki Sauce
While your cauliflower wings are baking to perfection, pour teriyaki sauce into a shallow bowl. If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency. This will ensure the sauce evenly coats the wings and enhances their flavor.

Step 8: Coat and Bake Again
Once the cauliflower wings are crunchy and golden, remove them from the oven and dip each piece into the prepared teriyaki sauce. Alternatively, you can brush the sauce onto each wing. Return them to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes for a delicious glaze.

Step 9: Serve
After the final baking time, take your teriyaki cauliflower wings out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a fresh garnish, then serve immediately for the best crunchiness. Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying plant-based treat!

What to Serve with Crispy Baked Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings?

There’s nothing quite like savoring a delicious meal that combines flavors, textures, and fresh ingredients to create the perfect dining experience.

Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls bring an added layer of freshness, making for a satisfying contrast to the savory wings. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful combination.
Creamy Vegan Ranch Dip: Serve this alongside your cauliflower wings for that classic flavor duo. The creamy texture and herbal notes will beautifully complement the savory teriyaki glaze.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side filled with sliced cucumbers, mint, and a touch of lime juice can balance the richness of the wings, providing a cooling effect that enlivens your palate.
Garlic Miso Edamame: These protein-packed pods bring both flavor and nutrition, enhancing the plant-based experience while echoing the umami notes of your teriyaki sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts well with the savory wings. Their crispy texture offers a delightful alternative for a satisfying crunch.
Mango Coconut Sticky Rice: For a more indulgent dessert, this sweet dish perfectly rounds out your meal. Its creamy texture and tropical flavor provide a beautiful finish after your savory appetizer.
Cold Brew Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea with a splash of lemon harmonizes nicely with the flavors of the wings, enhancing your dining experience with a cool and invigorating sip.

Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt these irresistible cauliflower wings to fit your taste and dietary needs!

Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter for a fiery kick that balances the sweet teriyaki glaze. Heat enhances flavor, transforming these wings into a tantalizing dish!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to keep these wings accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. They’ll still be crispy and delicious, just with a slight adjustment!
Cheesy Flavor: Sprinkle nutritional yeast on top before serving for a savory, cheesy taste without dairy. This adds depth and enhances the umami aspect of the wings.
Alternative Sauces: Switch things up by using a spicy barbecue sauce or buffalo sauce instead of teriyaki for an exciting twist. Each sauce gives a different vibe—what’s your favorite?
Crunchy Coating: Replace oats with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch that takes these wings to the next level. The more texture, the merrier!
Veggie Variety: Substitute broccoli florets for cauliflower to create a deliciously different version of these wings. Broccoli adds a unique taste while keeping everything gluten-free and vegan!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the teriyaki sauce for a burst of freshness. The herbaceous notes brighten each bite just beautifully!
Tangy Zest: Mix in a bit of lime or lemon juice to the batter for a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce. The acidity really rounds out the flavors!

Explore exciting pairings with other dishes, such as Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken, to create a memorable spread that impresses your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter and coat the cauliflower florets up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the coated florets can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. To maintain their crispy texture, avoid adding the teriyaki sauce until just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake the wings as directed, coat them with the teriyaki sauce, and give them an extra blast in the oven for a deliciously fresh meal. Enjoy the convenience without compromising on flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This ensures they stay fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked (coated) cauliflower wings on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat the wings in an oven at 180ºC (350ºF) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy!

Defrosting: If frozen, let the wings thaw in the fridge overnight before baking them. This helps maintain the texture of your delicious teriyaki cauliflower wings!

Expert Tips for Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings

Even Sizing: Cut cauliflower florets into uniform pieces to ensure they bake evenly for that perfect crispy texture everyone loves.
Batter Consistency: Make sure your batter is thick enough to cling to the florets without being too runny; this helps the coating adhere better.
Oven Space: Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet to promote even crisping; too much overlap can lead to soggy wings.
Teriyaki Sauce Check: If using store-bought teriyaki sauce, always check for added sugars and gluten to keep your wings health-conscious and aligned with dietary needs.
Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat any leftovers in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispness; microwaving can make them soggy.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to spice up the recipe with chili flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick; these Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings are versatile!

Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select cauliflower for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for cauliflower heads that are firm, dense, and free of dark spots or blemishes. The florets should be tightly packed and white, which indicates freshness. If you see any brown or yellow spots, it’s best to skip that head and choose another.

How should I store leftover teriyaki cauliflower wings?
Very! To keep your wings fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them to avoid condensation, which could make them soggy.

Can I freeze the teriyaki cauliflower wings? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, arrange the unbaked, coated cauliflower wings on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed!

What do I do if my cauliflower wings aren’t crispy enough after baking?
If they’re not as crispy as you’d like, it could be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet. To remedy this, ensure there’s enough space between the florets during baking, allowing hot air to circulate. You can also try baking them for an extra 5 minutes or using a higher oven temperature; just keep a close eye on them!

Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions like gluten intolerance?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, simply swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your teriyaki sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands can have hidden gluten. Always read labels to ensure compatibility with your dietary needs.

Are there any alternatives to the oats used in the coating?
Yes! If oats aren’t your thing or you’re looking for a different texture, you can easily replace them with panko breadcrumbs. This will give your teriyaki cauliflower wings an extra crunch that’s delightful and crispy!