Peppered Earth Tropical Vegan Wings

A crispy and flavorful plant-based appetizer. Click the recipe card below to download the recipe.

Ingredients

For the cauliflower wings

1 small head of cauliflower, divided into bite-sized pieces

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Juice of 1 lime

4 oz mango nectar

½ teaspoon Peppered Earth Smoked Paprika

1 cup potato starch

1–2 cups coconut oil, for frying

For the wing sauce

1 bottle Peppered Earth Tropical Hot Sauce (5 oz)

½ cup coconut oil

Juice of 1 lime (about 2 oz)

4 oz mango nectar

1 teaspoon salt

Garnish

1 lime, cut into wedges

2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Heat coconut oil in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F. For best results and to avoid lingering oil smells, fry the cauliflower outdoors if possible. If cooking indoors, we recommend shallow frying the cauliflower, as it helps reduce splashing. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer or convection oven preheated to 400°F.

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, mango nectar, Peppered Earth Smoked Paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the marinade.

Add the cauliflower pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes for maximum flavor.

Dredge each marinated cauliflower piece in potato starch for a light, even coating. If using an air fryer, lightly spritz each piece with a neutral oil such as canola oil.

Fry six pieces of cauliflower at a time in the hot oil, cooking for about 4 minutes per side or until golden brown. If air frying, arrange coated pieces in the basket and cook (or convection bake) for about 12 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the wing sauce.

In a saucepan over low heat, combine Peppered Earth Tropical Hot Sauce, coconut oil, lime juice, mango nectar, and salt. Stir until the coconut oil melts and the sauce is smooth and heated through. Allow the sauce to slowly reduce, stirring occasionally.

When the cauliflower wings are done, set them on paper towels to absorb excess oil, then transfer to a large bowl and pour the warm tropical sauce over the wings. Toss to coat thoroughly.

Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.

Click the image above to download and print the recipe card.