If you're a fan of junk food, you're likely familiar with chicken wings. These crispy, spicy treats are a staple at sports bars, game day parties, and pretty much any gathering where people are looking for a snack to munch on. However, if you're a vegan, or simply looking for a healthier alternative, you might feel left out. That's where vegan chicken wings come in.
Vegan chicken wings are a plant-based alternative to traditional chicken wings. They're made from ingredients like tofu, seitan, or even cauliflower, and are coated in a batter or breading and then fried or baked until crispy. While they may not taste exactly like chicken wings, they offer a similar texture and flavour profile that can satisfy your craving for a crunchy, savoury snack.
One of the main benefits of vegan chicken wings is that they're a healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings. Chicken wings are often deep-fried and coated in a high-calorie sauce, which can contribute to weight gain, high cholesterol, and other health issues. Vegan chicken wings, on the other hand, are typically baked or fried in a healthier oil, like coconut oil or avocado oil, and are often coated in a sauce that's lower in calories and fat.
In addition to being healthier, vegan chicken wings are also a more sustainable option. The meat industry is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By choosing a plant-based alternative, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Of course, not all vegan chicken wings are created equal. Some recipes may be higher in calories or less healthy than others, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. If you're looking for a healthier option, look for recipes that use whole food ingredients, like cauliflower or tofu which are then, baked instead of fried. You can also experiment with different sauces and seasoning blends to find a flavour profile that you love.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup vegan butter, melted
- ½ cup hot sauce
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 230°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk and 1/2 cup of water.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the milk mixture, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure it's fully coated.
- Place the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
- While the cauliflower is baking, mix together the melted vegan butter and hot sauce in a small bowl.
- Once the cauliflower is done, remove it from the oven and brush the hot sauce mixture over each floret. Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce is slightly caramelized and the cauliflower is tender.
- Serve hot, with your favourite dipping sauce.