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This creamy, spicy bang bang sauce transforms ordinary meals into restaurant-worthy experiences with minimal effort. It's the perfect balance of sweet heat that elevates everything from tofu to roasted vegetables in seconds.
I first created this sauce when trying to replicate my favorite takeout flavors during lockdown. My partner who typically avoids spicy foods ended up putting it on everything from breakfast potatoes to salads for weeks afterward.
Ingredients
- Vegan mayo: Creates the creamy base for the sauce without any dairy. Choose a good quality brand with neutral flavor
- Sriracha: Provides that signature spicy kick. The garlic notes in sriracha add complexity beyond just heat
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Brings sticky sweetness and subtle tang that balances the heat perfectly
- Maple syrup: Natural sweetener that rounds out flavors with caramel notes unlike plain sugar
- Garlic powder: Optional but adds wonderful aromatic depth to the finished sauce
- Smoked paprika: Optional ingredient that introduces a subtle smoky dimension that elevates the entire sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients:
- Take a moment to measure everything precisely before beginning. The balance of flavors in this sauce depends on proper proportions, so use measuring spoons rather than eyeballing amounts.
- Combine Base Ingredients:
- Add the vegan mayo, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and maple syrup to a small mixing bowl. Use a bowl with enough room to whisk comfortably without splashing the vibrant orange mixture over the sides.
- Incorporate Optional Aromatics:
- If using, sprinkle in the garlic powder and smoked paprika. These ingredients add remarkable depth to the sauce, transforming it from good to exceptional with minimal effort.
- Season And Finish:
- Add a small pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the flavors. Whisk everything together until completely smooth with no streaks of mayo visible. The finished sauce should have a consistent orange-pink hue.
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This sauce completely transformed how my family approaches weeknight meals. The sweet chili sauce is my secret weapon here. I discovered this combination when experimenting with different hot sauces and now keep sweet chili sauce stocked specifically for making bang bang sauce.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Bang bang sauce elevates nearly any protein but truly shines when paired with crispy textures. Try it drizzled over crispy baked tofu cubes, as a dipping sauce for air fried cauliflower wings, or as a flavor-packed dressing for grain bowls with roasted vegetables. The creamy spicy profile also works wonderfully on plant based burgers or drizzled over tacos for an unexpected fusion twist.
Storage Information
This sauce actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The sauce may thicken slightly when chilled but a quick stir will restore its perfect consistency. If you notice any separation after storage, simply whisk vigorously before serving. I do not recommend freezing this sauce as the emulsion can break when thawed.
Heat Level Customization
The beauty of homemade bang bang sauce is complete control over spiciness. For a milder version suitable for children or heat sensitive guests, reduce the sriracha to just one tablespoon and increase the maple syrup slightly. For fire enthusiasts, double the sriracha and add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can even incorporate minced fresh chilies for a sauce with bright heat and textural interest. I keep two versions in my refrigerator most weeks one standard and one extra spicy for different family members.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does homemade Bang Bang Sauce last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade Bang Bang Sauce typically lasts 7-10 days. The high acid content from the sriracha helps preserve it, but always check for any off odors before using.
- → What can I substitute for vegan mayo in Bang Bang Sauce?
If you don't have vegan mayo, you can substitute regular mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or even silken tofu blended with a bit of oil and lemon juice for a different texture but similar creaminess.
- → What dishes pair well with Bang Bang Sauce?
Bang Bang Sauce pairs wonderfully with crispy tofu, roasted vegetables, buddha bowls, plant-based sushi, as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, or drizzled over tacos. It also works great as a spicy sandwich spread or salad dressing when thinned slightly.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness of Bang Bang Sauce?
To make it spicier, increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha and increase the sweet chili sauce and maple syrup. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavor while tempering heat.
- → Can I make Bang Bang Sauce without maple syrup?
Yes, you can substitute the maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or brown sugar dissolved in a little warm water. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile but will maintain the necessary sweetness to balance the heat.
- → Is Bang Bang Sauce gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free. Pay special attention to the sweet chili sauce and sriracha, as some brands may contain gluten or be produced in facilities that process gluten-containing products.