Bang Bang Shrimp

Craving a dish that delivers the perfect crunch with a spicy, creamy kick? Bang Bang Shrimp is the answer. This irresistible recipe combines crispy shrimp coated in a tangy, spicy sauce that’s not only simple to prepare at home but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Learn how to make Bang Bang Shrimp from scratch and bring this restaurant favorite right into your kitchen for dinner or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy perfection: The shrimp are coated in a light batter that fries up beautifully crunchy every time.
• Flavor-packed sauce: The signature Bang Bang sauce balances sweetness, spice, and creaminess for an unforgettable bite.
• Quick and easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile appetizer or main: Serve it as a tasty starter or pile it on rice or salad for a filling meal.
• Customizable spice level: Easily adjust the heat to suit your taste without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Bang Bang Shrimp lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the crispy texture, vibrant flavor, and creamy, spicy sauce that defines this dish.

• Shrimp: Use medium-sized peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and quick cooking.
• Flour and cornstarch: Combining these creates a light, crispy coating that isn’t greasy.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to help the batter stick to each shrimp perfectly.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce, adding smoothness and richness.
• Sweet chili sauce: Offers sweetness with a subtle chili heat, key to the signature bang bang flavor.
• Sriracha: Adds extra spice and a touch of garlicky heat, adjustable to your preferred spice level.
• Garlic powder and salt: Essential seasonings that bring out the full flavor of the shrimp and sauce.
• Vegetable oil: For frying the shrimp to a golden crisp without overpowering the flavor.
• Lime (optional): A squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish with a fresh citrus note.

Variations for Bang Bang Shrimp

One of the best things about Bang Bang Shrimp is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you need to suit dietary needs or simply want to switch up the flavors, there are plenty of exciting variations to try.

• Baked instead of fried: For a healthier twist, bake the shrimp coated with panko breadcrumbs to keep the crunch.
• Use chicken or tofu: Swap shrimp for chicken tenders or firm tofu to create a different but equally delicious bang bang dish.
• Add a smoky kick: Incorporate smoked paprika into the batter or sauce for a deeper flavor profile.
• Extra creamy sauce: Mix in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt into the mayo for a tangier and thicker sauce.
• Sweet and spicy glaze: Drizzle honey or maple syrup into the sauce for sweetness that balances the spice perfectly.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing your shrimp and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is fundamental because it ensures the batter sticks properly and creates the perfect crispy coating later.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Dip each shrimp into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture. This double layer helps get the shrimp ultra-crispy.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden and crisp. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

While frying, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the heat level to your liking.

Step 5: Toss the Shrimp in Sauce

Place the fried shrimp in a large bowl and drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss gently so each piece is evenly coated without breaking the crispy crust.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the sauced shrimp to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Shrimp

• Dry shrimp thoroughly: Moist shrimp will prevent the batter from sticking well and can lead to soggy results.
• Maintain oil temperature: Fry in batches and keep the oil between 350-360°F to ensure crispiness and avoid greasy shrimp.
• Use cornstarch and flour combo: This blend is key for achieving a light, non-greasy crust that holds up beautifully after tossing in sauce.
• Don’t overdress the shrimp: Add the sauce sparingly to keep the shrimp crisp and flavorful.
• Serve immediately: Bang Bang Shrimp tastes best fresh to enjoy that satisfying crunch with every bite.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the dish while adding color and complementary flavors. Sprinkle chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or thinly sliced red chili peppers for a burst of freshness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair your Bang Bang Shrimp with fragrant jasmine rice or a simple cucumber salad to balance the spicy richness. Steamed vegetables or a light slaw also work wonderfully as refreshing sides.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve Bang Bang Shrimp on lettuce cups or atop crispy wonton chips as bite-sized appetizers. Alternatively, pile them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or toss into a crunchy salad for a delightful contrast of textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp separate from the sauce to maintain crispiness and toss together just before serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp uncoated in individual layers on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. The sauce should be made fresh, so freeze it separately or prepare anew after thawing shrimp.

Reheating

Reheat leftover shrimp in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through to regain the crisp texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Is Bang Bang Shrimp spicy?

Bang Bang Shrimp has a balanced heat level coming from sriracha and sweet chili sauce, but it’s easy to adjust the spice by adding more or less sauce according to your preference.

Can I bake Bang Bang Shrimp instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baked Bang Bang Shrimp are a healthier alternative. Coat the shrimp with breadcrumbs or panko and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.

What is the best type of shrimp to use?

Medium-sized peeled and deveined shrimp work best for this recipe because they cook quickly and provide a satisfying bite without overwhelming the sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the Bang Bang sauce can be mixed a day in advance and refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before tossing with the shrimp.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp pairs great with rice, salads, steamed veggies, or even as a flavorful topping on tacos or sandwiches for creative meals.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp is such a joyful dish to make and share. Its crunchy texture combined with the vibrant, spicy sauce creates an experience that’s hard to beat at home. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Dive in, have fun with the flavors, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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