Crispy Bang Bang Broccoli

This Crispy Bang Bang Broccoli is a plant-based twist on the beloved Bang Bang Shrimp, offering the same irresistible flavor and texture while swapping out shrimp for broccoli. Inspired by Bonefish Grill’s iconic dish, I’ve used crispy, golden-battered broccoli florets, which are then tossed in the signature spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce. This version retains everything we love about the original—crunch, heat, and sweetness—while providing a healthier, fiber-rich alternative.

Broccoli works wonderfully in this recipe, frying up with a delightful crunch. Paired with a creamy, zesty sauce made from mayonnaise (or vegan mayo for a plant-based option), sambal oelek (an Asian chili sauce), Sriracha, and honey, each bite delivers a balanced mix of textures and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, snack, or unique side dish, Bang Bang Broccoli checks all the boxes.

The key to this dish is the famous sauce. It’s a combination of creamy mayonnaise, fiery sambal oelek, Sriracha, and honey, creating that addictive sweet-heat profile. Tossing the crispy broccoli in this sauce ensures every bite bursts with flavor, making it perfect for casual gatherings or special dinners alike.

To enhance the presentation and add some freshness, serve with crisp lettuce leaves or a sprinkle of thinly sliced scallions. The contrast of crispy, spicy, and sweet elements makes this dish a standout on any table.

Why Broccoli? Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants. By using it in this recipe, not only do we transform a well-loved restaurant dish into something healthier, but we also introduce a variety of health benefits. Compared to the shrimp version, this dish is lower in fat and cholesterol, making it a more guilt-free indulgence. The natural texture of broccoli mimics the satisfying bite of shrimp, making it an ideal vegetable for frying.

This recipe takes everything great about Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp and transforms it into a delicious, plant-based alternative using broccoli. The crispy florets absorb the iconic Bang Bang sauce beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also with fiber and nutrients. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a healthier take on a classic, this Bang Bang Broccoli is sure to become a new favorite.

Serve this crispy, golden-fried broccoli with a sweet and spicy chili sauce as an appetizer, snack, or side dish to elevate any meal!

Print Recipe

Crispy Bang Bang Broccoli

Cooking Method: Frying Cuisine: Fusion Courses: Appetizers, Dinner, Snacks Recipe Keys: S Soy Free S Sugar Free

Difficulty: Intermediate Cook Time 30 mins

Description

Inspired by Bonefish Grill’s iconic dish, this Bang Bang Broccoli combines crispy, golden-fried florets with a sweet and spicy chili sauce. It’s the perfect blend of crunch and zing, offering a healthier alternative to the traditional shrimp-based version. Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or side dish to elevate any meal!

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

Servings

• ¹⁄₂ cup mayonnaise (use vegan mayo for a plant-based option)

• ¹⁄₂ tablespoon Asian chili sauce (such as sambal oelek)

• ¹⁄₂ tablespoon Asian chili sauce (such as sambal oelek)

• 2 teaspoons honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon water

For the Crispy Broccoli:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• 2 large eggs (or flax seed powder for a vegan substitute)

• ³⁄₄ cup all-purpose flour

• ¹⁄₂ cup cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Fresh lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)

• Thinly sliced scallions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Asian chili sauce, Sriracha sauce, honey (or agave), 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon of water. This sauce is the star of the dish, bringing both heat and sweetness. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and dry the broccoli florets thoroughly. You want them as dry as possible to avoid oil splatter during frying.
3. Set Up Frying Station: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (Place the handle of a wooden spoon in the oil. The oil is ready when bubbles begin to appear around the tip of the handle.).
4. Prepare the Coating: In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs (or flax eggs if vegan). In another shallow bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
5. Dredge the Broccoli: Working in batches, dredge the broccoli florets in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is coated well. Shake off any excess flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally, coat them again in the flour mixture to form a thick, crunchy crust.
6. Fry the Broccoli: Carefully drop the coated broccoli florets into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the broccoli to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Toss and Serve: Once all the broccoli has been fried, toss the florets in the prepared Bang Bang sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Arrange lettuce leaves on a serving platter or individual plates, and place the saucy broccoli on top. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions for a fresh pop of color.

8. Serving Suggestion:

   Serve this crispy Bang Bang Broccoli as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a snack. For a healthier option, enjoy it wrapped in lettuce cups or with a side of steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.

   ---

   Enjoy this flavorful take on a beloved classic that will delight vegans, vegetarians, and meat-lovers alike!

Keywords: Bang Bang Broccoli, vegan crispy broccoli, sweet and spicy sauce, vegetarian appetizer, crispy fried broccoli, plant-based snack, Asian-inspired dish, Bonefish Grill copycat.