Bang Bang Shrimp offers a delightful combination of crispy fried shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, a main dish, or something fun for a casual get-together, this dish ticks all the boxes. The playfulness and pack of flavors make it a favorite for many, and its ease of preparation allows you to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Bang Bang Shrimp
The appeal of Bang Bang Shrimp lies in the perfect blend of textures and flavors. You get the crispiness from the fried shrimp, which contrasts beautifully with the smooth, spicy sauce. This dish strikes an ideal balance between creamy and tangy, with a hint of heat that keeps you coming back for more. It is versatile enough to serve at a dinner party, a family gathering, or just as a treat for yourself during a cozy night in. Furthermore, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels, and the ingredients are often readily available. Once you’ve had Bang Bang Shrimp, you’ll likely find yourself craving it again and again.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions
Begin by marinating the shrimp. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator. This step adds tenderness and flavor.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture creates a flavorful crust that enhances the shrimp.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to submerge the shrimp, usually about 2 inches deep.
While the oil heats, prepare the sauce. In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and allow any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding; this will help them cook evenly and become crispy.
Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Once all the shrimp are cooked, toss them in the prepared sauce until they are well coated. You can adjust the level of spiciness according to your preference.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp shines best when served hot and fresh. You can serve it as an appetizer, paired with toothpicks or mini skewers for easy eating. This dish also works well as a main course. Place a generous portion over a bed of rice or alongside crispy salads to balance the flavors.
Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime over the top for an extra burst of flavor. If you want to create a more elaborate presentation, serve the shrimp in a bowl lined with lettuce leaves. This adds a nice visual element and keeps the shrimp slightly elevated. Complement the dish with a side of your favorite dipping sauces. The culinary possibilities are endless, making this dish not just a hit at the table, but also a conversation starter.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
To ensure your Bang Bang Shrimp turns out perfectly each time, follow these expert tips. First, adjust the temperature of the oil carefully. If it’s too hot, your shrimp will burn outside while remaining raw inside. If it’s too cold, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and end up soggy. Aim for a steady temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
Next, consider adding an extra crunch to your shrimp by mixing breadcrumbs into your flour and cornstarch mixture. This adds additional texture that many find irresistible. For an added flavor boost, try seasoning the shrimp directly with salt and pepper before dredging them in the flour.
If you’re looking to meal prep, consider preparing the sauce in advance and storing it in the refrigerator. This sauce tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, as the flavors meld together beautifully. Lastly, play around with the level of spiciness in your sauce. If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add more sriracha or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
How to Store Bang Bang Shrimp
If you end up with leftovers, storing them correctly is essential to maintaining freshness. Start by letting the shrimp cool completely at room temperature. Once they are cool, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, consider using an oven or an air fryer to regain that crispy texture instead of the microwave, which can make them soggy.
If you want to store Bang Bang Shrimp for a longer period, consider freezing the cooked shrimp before they are coated in sauce. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator and then fry again for maximum crunch before tossing them in the sauce.
Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp is a wonderfully adaptable dish, and you can personalize it in various ways. To make it lighter, consider using grilled shrimp rather than fried. Marinate your shrimp in the same sauce, then grill them for a smoky flavor while keeping the dish healthier.
You might also experiment with different sauce variations. Instead of a mayonnaise base, try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. You could also add a splash of soy sauce or a bit of lime zest to bring new flavors to the table.
If you prefer a sweeter profile, substitute the sriracha in the sauce with a mango or peach chutney to add a fruity note. Pair the shrimp with fresh avocado slices and a tangy mango salsa for a vibrant, fresh dish. Additionally, swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu for different protein options while using the same frying and sauce techniques.
FAQ about Bang Bang Shrimp
What is Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish made from crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
How do I make Bang Bang Shrimp less spicy?
You can adjust the amount of sriracha or sweet chili sauce in the recipe. Starting with less and gradually adding to your preferred heat level is a great way to control the spice.
Can I use frozen shrimp to make Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even frying.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
You can serve it with rice, a fresh salad, or on a bed of lettuce. It also pairs well with dipping sauces for added flavor.
How long does it take to make Bang Bang Shrimp?
The entire process takes about 45 minutes to an hour, including marinating the shrimp and frying them.
Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk for marinating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- to taste Oil for frying
For the Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- for garnish Fresh cilantro optional
Instructions
Marinating
- Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator.
Preparing the Coating
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heating the Oil
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Making the Sauce
- In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Coating Shrimp
- Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
Frying the Shrimp
- Carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Tossing in Sauce
- Toss the fried shrimp in the prepared sauce until well coated.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
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