As I stood in the kitchen, the rhythmic sizzle of shrimp meeting hot oil filled the air, and I couldn’t help but smile at the anticipation of crispy goodness. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Bang Bang Shrimp, a dish that has become a crowd-pleaser in our house. This recipe delivers perfectly tender shrimp fried to golden perfection, enveloped in a creamy sweet chili sauce that strikes a delightful balance between crunch and creaminess. It’s not just a simple appetizer; it’s a flavor-packed gem perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Plus, with minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a quick and satisfying escape from the fast-food routine. Ready to transform your next meal? Let’s dive into the art of making these irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp!
Why Will You Adore Bang Bang Shrimp?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Crispy Texture: Each shrimp is enveloped in a crunchy, golden-brown coating that gives way to tender, juicy goodness.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy sweet chili sauce adds a burst of sweet and spicy flavors, making every bite a delight.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy these shrimp as an appetizer, or serve them over sushi rice for a fulfilling main course.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a game day or a casual dinner, these Bang Bang Shrimp are sure to impress family and friends, offering a fantastic alternative to traditional fast food options. For an added twist, you might like to pair them with some Garlic Shrimp Pasta or try a refreshing Chipotle Lime Shrimp Bowl!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
• A delightful blend awaits your cooking adventure!
For the Shrimp
• Medium Shrimp (31-40 count) – The star ingredient; deveined and peeled for easy eating.
• Buttermilk – Keeps shrimp moist and tender, ensuring a perfect coating.
• Cornstarch – Creates an irresistibly crispy coating when fried; gluten-free flour can be used here as a substitute.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the Bang Bang Shrimp, adjust according to your taste.
• Black Pepper – Offers a subtle heat; feel free to reduce it if you prefer milder flavors.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; you can swap it for fresh garlic for added punch.
• Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying; options like canola or peanut oil can enhance flavor.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the rich and creamy base for the sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – The essential ingredient that gives the dish its signature sweet and spicy kick.
For Garnish
• Green Onion (sliced) – Adds a fresh finish on top; chives can be a milder alternative.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
Start by placing the deveined and peeled medium shrimp in a bowl filled with buttermilk. Ensure each shrimp is completely coated in the buttermilk, which tenderizes the shrimp and helps the coating adhere. Let them soak for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, creating a uniform mixture. This blend is crucial for achieving the crispy coating on your Bang Bang Shrimp. Set this bowl aside for the next step, ensuring it’s ready to go.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a deep fryer or heavy pot, pour in vegetable oil and heat it to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, ensuring it stays consistent for perfect frying. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating it’s ready for frying. Prepare your workspace by having a wire rack or paper towels nearby for draining.
Step 4: Coat and Fry
Once the oil is hot, take the buttermilk-soaked shrimp and dredge each piece in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Carefully place around 6-8 shrimp in the hot oil, frying them for 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning and achieve that perfect crunch.
Step 5: Drain
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried shrimp from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will absorb any excess oil while keeping the Bang Bang Shrimp crispy. Allow them to drain for a couple of minutes before proceeding, as this helps maintain their delightful texture.
Step 6: Make Sauce
In a clean bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce until smooth and well combined. This creamy sweet chili sauce adds a vibrant flavor to your Bang Bang Shrimp. Feel free to adjust the ratios to your liking, depending on whether you prefer a sweeter or tangier taste.
Step 7: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Once the shrimp are fried and drained, toss them in the bowl with the creamy sauce. Ensure each piece of shrimp is generously coated with the mixture, making them irresistibly flavorful. The shiny coating will make them look even more appetizing, ready to share with family or friends.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Plate your Bang Bang Shrimp and top them with sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while they are hot and crispy, either as a standalone appetizer or over sushi rice for a heartier meal. Enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite of this delicious dish!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Bang Bang Shrimp to suit your tastes and dietary preferences with these fun and flavorful ideas!
- Gluten-Free: Swap cornstarch with gluten-free flour to still achieve that satisfying crunch without wheat.
- Plant-Based: Use tofu or tempeh instead of shrimp for a delightful vegetarian/vegan alternative. Simply press the tofu to remove excess moisture for the best results.
- Extra Crunchy: Add panko breadcrumbs to the cornstarch mixture for an even crispier coating that takes your shrimp to the next level.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the cornstarch mixture for a fiery twist that heat lovers will adore.
- Homemade Sauce: Whip up your own sweet chili sauce to control the sweetness and spice, enhancing the flavor profile to your liking.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the sweet chili sauce, brightening the flavor and giving it a fresh twist.
- Garlic Lovers: Swap garlic powder for roasted garlic to deepen the flavor and add a hint of sweetness; it complements the dish beautifully.
- Flavorful Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of soy sauce or a spicy mayo for dipping, giving your guests extra options to enjoy alongside the tasty shrimp.
These variations can turn your Bang Bang Shrimp experience into something truly unique, offering endless possibilities for flavor exploration. If you’re looking for more seafood inspiration, don’t miss out on the savory flavors of Spicy Garlic Shrimp Noodles or the delightful Bang Bang Chicken!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
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Prep Ahead: Prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance for a quicker cook time during meal prep or gatherings.
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Temperature Check: Always use a thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature; too hot will burn the shrimp and too cool may lead to sogginess.
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Avoid Crowding: Fry shrimp in small batches (6-8 pieces) to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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Draining Trick: Let fried shrimp rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent steam from softening the crispy coating.
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Customize Sauce: Adjust the ratio of mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce to tailor the flavor profile; you might find a mix that you love even more!
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Serve Fresh: For the best experience, enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after frying, as they are at their crispiest and most delightful right out of the oil.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Room Temperature: Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp should not be kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store cooled fried shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, avoid adding the sauce until ready to serve.
Freezer: You can freeze Bang Bang Shrimp without the sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through and regain crispiness.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven to avoid sogginess and achieve that desirable crunch again.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp by soaking them in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. While you can also coat the shrimp in cornstarch the night before, keep them separate until ready to fry to maintain crispness. When you’re ready to serve, heat the oil and fry the shrimp for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. For the sauce, mix the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This way, when the craving strikes, you can whip up your Bang Bang Shrimp with minimal effort, delivering restaurant-quality results in no time!
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that complement the irresistible crunch and creamy sauce of your shrimp.
- Coconut Rice: The slight sweetness and chewy texture of coconut rice beautifully balance the flavors and enhances the dish’s tropical vibes.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crisp contrast to the shrimp, with tangy notes that perfectly cut through the richness of the sauce.
For a light and zesty accompaniment that wakes up your palate, the Thai Cucumber Salad is a fantastic choice. The vibrant crunch brings added freshness, making it a fantastic pairing for your Bang Bang Shrimp.
- Sushi Rice: Serve over sushi rice for a heartier meal, combining a soft base that marries perfectly with the crunchy shrimp.
- Garlic Noodles: These noodles are silky and flavorful, providing a delightful complement to the crispy texture of the shrimp. The garlic brings an extra layer of depth while keeping things light.
The interplay of flavors and textures here will leave you craving more of this fantastic feast!
- Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside extra sauce for those who can’t get enough of that delicious spicy-sweet flavor!
- Mango Margarita: Brighten up your meal with this refreshing drink, as its fruity notes and tangy kick pair beautifully with the shrimp’s crispy and creamy profile.
Together, these pairings create a truly unforgettable dining experience that will transport you far from the ordinary!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
For the best results, it’s recommended to use medium shrimp (31-40 count); they should be deveined and peeled for easy eating. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp will work well too—just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
You can store cooled Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, avoid adding the sauce until just before serving.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze Bang Bang Shrimp without the sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my shrimp aren’t crispy after frying?
If your shrimp aren’t crispy, it’s possible the oil was not hot enough. Always preheat your oil to 375°F (190°C) and avoid overcrowding the frying pot. Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and a delightful crunch.
How can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, you can substitute cornstarch with gluten-free flour. Also, for a lighter sauce, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, mixing it with sweet chili sauce for full flavor without the excess fat.
Is this dish safe for pets?
While Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious treat for humans, it’s best to keep it away from pets. The seasoning, particularly garlic and the rich sauce, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Magic at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Shrimp: Soak medium shrimp in a bowl of buttermilk for 15-20 minutes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Coat and Fry: Dredge shrimp in cornstarch mixture and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain: Remove fried shrimp and place on paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make Sauce: Mix mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce in a clean bowl until smooth.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until fully coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Plate the shrimp, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot.
