If you’re looking for a creamy, spicy, and irresistibly delicious bang bang sauce recipe, this vegan version is just what you need! Traditionally made with mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, this plant-based bang bang sauce swaps out dairy while keeping the bold, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that makes it so popular.
This easy homemade bang bang sauce comes together in minutes using simple ingredients like vegan mayo, sriracha, maple syrup, and rice vinegar—no dairy or eggs needed! It’s perfect as a dipping sauce for crispy cauliflower wings, tofu bites, or air-fried veggies, and also works as a drizzle for rice bowls, wraps, or salads.
Whether you’re looking for a healthier bang bang sauce alternative, a spicy vegan sauce for meal prep, or a dairy-free dipping sauce that’s quick and easy, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into how to make the best vegan bang bang sauce in just a few simple steps!
What Is Bang Bang Sauce?
The Origin of Bang Bang Sauce
The bang bang sauce recipe has its roots in Asian-American cuisine, often linked to a popular dish called Bang Bang Shrimp made famous by restaurants like Bonefish Grill. Traditionally, this creamy and spicy sauce was created as a flavorful topping for crispy fried shrimp, giving it a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy kick. The name “bang bang” is believed to reference the bold, punchy flavors of the sauce, which combines creamy mayo with sweet chili sauce and a hint of spice.
Over time, this delicious sauce gained popularity beyond seafood and became a versatile condiment for everything from fried vegetables and tofu to rice bowls and wraps. With its creamy texture and balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, it quickly became a go-to sauce for dipping and drizzling over various dishes.
Traditional vs. Vegan Bang Bang Sauce
A classic bang bang sauce recipe typically consists of:
- Mayonnaise (as the creamy base)
- Sweet chili sauce (for a hint of sweetness and mild heat)
- Sriracha or hot sauce (to add spice)
- Honey or sugar (for extra sweetness)
- Vinegar or lime juice (to balance the flavors)
While delicious, the traditional bang bang sauce is not plant-based due to its use of eggs in mayonnaise and sometimes honey. However, making a vegan bang bang sauce is incredibly easy with simple ingredient swaps!
A plant-based bang bang sauce keeps all the delicious elements of the original while using vegan-friendly alternatives such as:
- Vegan mayo – A creamy, egg-free substitute that mimics traditional mayonnaise
- Maple syrup or agave – A natural sweetener that replaces honey
- Dairy-free yogurt (optional) – For an extra smooth and tangy texture
- Sriracha and sweet chili sauce – Providing the same signature flavor
With these swaps, you get a 100% plant-based bang bang sauce recipe that’s just as creamy, flavorful, and versatile as the original!
Why This Plant-Based Version Is the Best
There are many reasons why this vegan bang bang sauce is the best plant-based alternative to the classic version:
- Dairy-Free & Egg-Free – Perfect for vegans and those with dietary restrictions
- Just as Creamy & Flavorful – The vegan mayo and chili sauce combination delivers the same rich texture
- Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level, sweetness, or tanginess to your taste
- Versatile Uses – Works as a dipping sauce, dressing, or drizzle for everything from cauliflower wings to Buddha bowls
- Healthier Alternative – Can be made oil-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free with simple ingredient modifications
By using this easy plant-based bang bang sauce recipe, you can enjoy all the bold, tangy, and creamy flavors without any animal-based ingredients. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply looking for a healthier sauce option, this version is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
If you love unique plant-based sauces, you might also enjoy this Vegan Pineapple Casserole Recipe, which balances sweet and savory flavors in a delicious way.
Ingredients for Vegan Bang Bang Sauce
Making a delicious, creamy, and spicy bang bang sauce recipe without any animal products is easier than you think! With just a few simple plant-based ingredients, you can recreate the signature flavor of this famous sauce while keeping it dairy-free, egg-free, and completely vegan.
Key Ingredients for Vegan Bang Bang Sauce
A traditional bang bang sauce recipe typically includes mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This vegan version swaps out a few ingredients while maintaining the same creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Vegan Mayo – The base of the sauce, providing creaminess and richness. Choose a high-quality plant-based mayonnaise for the best texture.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and mild heat. Look for a variety that’s vegan-friendly and free from fish sauce.
- Sriracha or Hot Sauce – Enhances the heat level and gives the sauce its signature spice. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Maple Syrup or Agave – A natural sweetener that replaces honey in the traditional recipe. You can also use coconut sugar for a different twist.
- Rice Vinegar or Lime Juice – Helps balance the flavors by adding a slight tang, making the sauce more vibrant and zesty.
- Garlic Powder (Optional) – Adds an extra layer of flavor for a more savory kick.
These simple ingredients come together in just minutes to create a smooth, flavorful, and versatile vegan bang bang sauce recipe that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes.
Substitutes for Common Allergens (Soy-Free, Gluten-Free Options)
Many store-bought condiments contain soy, gluten, or artificial ingredients. If you have dietary restrictions, here are some simple swaps to make this bang bang sauce recipe allergen-friendly:
- Soy-Free Option: Most vegan mayonnaise is made from soy, but there are soy-free alternatives made from avocado oil, pea protein, or sunflower seeds. Look for brands like Chosen Foods or Sir Kensington’s Fabanaise.
- Gluten-Free Option: While the core ingredients in bang bang sauce are naturally gluten-free, some sweet chili sauces may contain gluten-based thickeners. Always check labels or use homemade sweet chili sauce with tapioca starch instead of wheat-based additives.
- Oil-Free Option: If you prefer an oil-free version, swap the vegan mayo for a blend of coconut yogurt or cashew cream. This will still provide the creamy texture without added oils.
By choosing the right ingredients, you can make this bang bang sauce recipe work for almost any dietary need while keeping it just as delicious, creamy, and satisfying.
Choosing the Right Plant-Based Mayo for the Best Texture
Since vegan mayo is the base of this sauce, selecting the right brand makes all the difference in texture and taste. Here are some tips to choose the best one:
- Look for a Thick & Creamy Texture – Some plant-based mayos are too thin, making the sauce watery. Go for brands that are rich and thick, like Follow Your Heart Vegenaise or Hellmann’s Vegan Mayo.
- Check for a Neutral Flavor – Some vegan mayos have a strong vinegar or mustard taste, which can alter the balance of the sauce. Choose one with a mild flavor that blends well.
- Opt for a Healthier Alternative – If you’re avoiding processed oils, try making homemade cashew-based mayo or using coconut yogurt as a substitute.
A high-quality vegan mayo ensures that your bang bang sauce recipe is smooth, rich, and perfectly creamy, just like the traditional version!
For the best flavor, use a high-quality vegan mayo. Try this highly-rated vegan mayo on Amazon for a creamy and delicious base.
How to Make Vegan Bang Bang Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Making a homemade bang bang sauce recipe is incredibly easy, requiring just a few simple ingredients and no cooking at all. This vegan version comes together in minutes, making it a quick and convenient condiment for dipping, drizzling, or spreading.
Follow this step-by-step guide to create the best plant-based bang bang sauce that’s creamy, flavorful, and customizable to your taste!
Quick and Easy Mixing Method
This vegan bang bang sauce recipe is all about simplicity. Here’s how to make it in just 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- ½ cup vegan mayo (for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce (for a touch of sweetness and mild spice)
- 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce (for heat, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice (for balance and tang)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until the sauce is smooth and well combined. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a teaspoon of water or plant-based milk and mix again.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your bang bang sauce a quick taste test and adjust the seasoning as needed:
- Want it spicier? Add more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prefer it sweeter? Increase the amount of maple syrup or sweet chili sauce.
- Need more tang? A little extra lime juice or rice vinegar can enhance the brightness.
Once you’re happy with the flavor, your vegan bang bang sauce is ready to serve!
Adjusting Spice Levels to Your Taste
One of the best things about this homemade bang bang sauce recipe is that you can easily customize the heat level to your liking:
Mild: Use just 1 teaspoon of sriracha or swap it for extra sweet chili sauce.
Medium: Stick with 1 tablespoon of sriracha for a balanced spice.
Hot: Add 1½ to 2 tablespoons of sriracha or mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Extra Spicy: Try using ghost pepper hot sauce or chopped fresh chili peppers for an intense kick!
If you’re serving this sauce to a crowd, start with a mild base and allow individuals to add more spice as needed.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Since this vegan bang bang sauce is made with plant-based mayo, it should be stored properly to maintain freshness:
- Refrigerate Immediately: Store the sauce in an airtight container or a sealed jar in the refrigerator.
- Shelf Life: It will stay fresh for up to 1 week when properly stored.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing can change the texture and make it separate, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Stir Before Using: If the sauce thickens in the fridge, stir well or add a splash of plant-based milk to loosen it up.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a perfectly creamy, flavorful bang bang sauce recipe whenever you need it!
Keep your homemade bang bang sauce fresh longer with an airtight container. This set of BPA-free glass jars on Amazon is perfect for storing sauces.
How to Use Vegan Bang Bang Sauce
Once you’ve made this delicious bang bang sauce recipe, you’ll want to drizzle, dip, and spread it on everything! Its creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor makes it a versatile condiment that enhances a variety of plant-based dishes. Whether you’re using it as a dipping sauce, dressing, or drizzle, there are endless ways to enjoy this vegan bang bang sauce in your meals.
Best Foods to Pair with Bang Bang Sauce
The rich, tangy, and spicy flavor of this vegan bang bang sauce recipe pairs perfectly with crispy, crunchy, and savory plant-based dishes. Here are some of the best foods to serve with bang bang sauce:
- Cauliflower Wings – One of the most popular plant-based pairings, crispy air-fried or baked cauliflower wings become irresistible when tossed or dipped in bang bang sauce.
- Tofu Bites or Vegan Chicken – Use crispy tofu, tempeh nuggets, or store-bought vegan chicken tenders for a protein-packed dish. Bang bang tofu bites are a fan-favorite!
- Rice Bowls and Buddha Bowls – Drizzle over brown rice, quinoa, or noodle bowls with roasted veggies, edamame, and avocado for a creamy, spicy kick.
- Wraps and Sandwiches – Use it as a spread for vegan burgers, wraps, or sandwiches to add extra flavor and creaminess. Try it on a crispy chickpea wrap or a grilled portobello sandwich.
- Salads and Slaws – Mix it into coleslaw or drizzle it over a crunchy cabbage salad for a creamy, spicy dressing.
- French Fries and Sweet Potato Fries – Serve as a dipping sauce for crispy fries for an indulgent snack or side dish.
- Tacos and Burritos – Add a drizzle of bang bang sauce to vegan tacos, burrito bowls, or quesadillas for extra creaminess and spice.
As a Dipping Sauce vs. a Dressing
Depending on how you want to enjoy this bang bang sauce recipe, you can adjust its consistency and usage:
- As a Dipping Sauce – Keep the sauce thicker by using less liquid. This works best for dipping crispy cauliflower, tofu bites, fries, and veggie sticks.
- As a Dressing – To make a pourable dressing, thin out the sauce with 1-2 tablespoons of plant-based milk, water, or extra rice vinegar. This makes it perfect for salads, grain bowls, and wraps.
- As a Drizzle – If using it for tacos, sandwiches, or buddha bowls, keep it slightly thick but still smooth enough to drizzle over your dish for an extra burst of flavor.
Creative Meal Ideas Using Bang Bang Sauce
Looking for fun ways to incorporate this vegan bang bang sauce recipe into your meals? Try these creative ideas:
- Bang Bang Chickpea Wraps – Toss roasted chickpeas with bang bang sauce and wrap them in a whole wheat tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Spicy Bang Bang Noodle Bowl – Mix this sauce with rice noodles, sautéed veggies, and tofu for an easy, flavorful dish.
- Bang Bang Jackfruit Tacos – Use shredded jackfruit, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and top with cabbage slaw and cilantro.
- Bang Bang Avocado Salad – Toss fresh avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and greens with this creamy sauce for a spicy, refreshing salad.
- Bang Bang Grilled Veggie Skewers – Brush bang bang sauce over grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a smoky, flavorful twist.
No matter how you use it, this vegan bang bang sauce recipe adds a bold, creamy, and spicy flavor to any dish!
If you’re looking for other delicious ways to elevate your meals, try this Big Mac Salad – Low Carb & Keto-Friendly for a refreshing and flavorful dish. And for snack lovers, a great way to enjoy bang bang sauce is as a dip for crispy, oven-baked snacks like this Chex Mix Recipe, making it a perfect party appetizer.
Tips for Customizing Your Bang Bang Sauce
One of the best things about making your own bang bang sauce recipe is that you can customize it to match your personal taste and dietary preferences. Whether you want to make it oil-free, spicier, sweeter, or give it a unique twist, there are plenty of ways to modify this vegan bang bang sauce while keeping it delicious and versatile.
Making It Oil-Free and Healthier
If you’re looking for a healthier version of bang bang sauce that’s oil-free, you can swap out the vegan mayo, which is often made with oil, for a whole-food alternative. Here are some great options:
- Avocado-Based Sauce – Blend ripe avocado with the other ingredients for a naturally creamy, oil-free version that’s packed with healthy fats.
- Coconut Yogurt or Dairy-Free Yogurt – Using unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt instead of mayo provides a creamy texture while cutting out processed oils.
- Cashew Cream – Blend soaked cashews with a bit of water and lemon juice for a rich, smooth, and oil-free base.
By choosing one of these whole-food alternatives, you can make your bang bang sauce recipe lower in calories and more nutrient-dense without sacrificing taste or texture.
Adding More Heat or Sweetness
Since bang bang sauce is known for its perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, you can easily adjust the heat and sweetness to your liking:
To Make It Spicier:
- Add more sriracha or use a spicier hot sauce like Tabasco, chili paste, or ghost pepper sauce.
- Mix in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Blend in fresh diced jalapeños or Thai chilies for a more intense, fresh heat.
To Make It Sweeter:
- Increase the amount of maple syrup, agave, or coconut sugar.
- Add a touch of pineapple juice or orange juice for a fruity sweetness.
- Mix in a bit of extra sweet chili sauce for a milder, sweeter version.
Balancing the sweet and spicy levels ensures your bang bang sauce recipe is perfectly tailored to your taste!
Using Alternative Flavors for Unique Variations
If you love experimenting with flavors, try giving your bang bang sauce a unique twist with these creative variations:
- Garlic & Herb Bang Bang Sauce – Add fresh minced garlic, chives, or cilantro for a savory, herb-infused version.
- Mango Bang Bang Sauce – Blend in pureed mango or pineapple for a tropical, slightly fruity twist.
- Peanut or Almond Bang Bang Sauce – Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty, Thai-inspired variation.
- Lemon & Dill Bang Bang Sauce – Mix in fresh lemon juice and chopped dill for a tangy, citrusy version that pairs well with grilled veggies and tofu.
These variations make your bang bang sauce recipe even more versatile, allowing you to use it in different cuisines and dishes.
If you love experimenting with flavors, why not try pairing bang bang sauce with a Smoked Queso Recipe for a smoky-spicy flavor combo?
Conclusion
A homemade bang bang sauce recipe is the perfect way to add a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet kick to your favorite plant-based meals. This vegan version keeps all the bold flavors of the traditional sauce while using wholesome, dairy-free ingredients that align with a plant-based lifestyle.
By using simple ingredients like vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, you can create a sauce that is versatile, easy to make, and customizable to your taste. Whether you prefer it extra spicy, subtly sweet, or completely oil-free, this bang bang sauce recipe can be adjusted to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
From crispy cauliflower wings and tofu bites to rice bowls, wraps, and salads, there are endless ways to enjoy vegan bang bang sauce. Use it as a dipping sauce, drizzle, or dressing to instantly elevate your meals with its rich, creamy texture and perfect balance of flavors.
Now that you know how to make the best vegan bang bang sauce, why not try it in your next meal? It’s a quick, delicious, and plant-based addition that you’ll want to keep in your fridge at all times!
If you’re looking for more homemade sauce inspiration, check out this Chick-fil-A Sauce Copycat Recipe for another classic sauce you can recreate at home!