When my taste buds are craving a little excitement, there’s nothing quite like the tantalizing crunch of Bang Bang Shrimp to elevate my dining experience. This dish, with its beautifully crispy exterior and creamy, spicy sauce, brings a burst of flavor that transports me straight to the bustling streets where culinary magic happens. The beauty of Bang Bang Shrimp lies not only in its delectable taste but also in the versatility of the recipe—it’s perfect whether I’m hosting friends for a lively weekend gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner.
After discovering this fantastic recipe, I knew I had to share it! Tapping into my pantry, I found an array of ingredients just waiting to be united to create this mouthwatering dish. Plus, with options for frying, baking, or even making it gluten-free, Bang Bang Shrimp is a simple yet impressive way to bring bold flavors home. Join me as we dive into making this incredible appetizer that guarantees satisfaction in every bite!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Try?
Crispy and Creamy: The combination of crispy shrimp enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce is simply irresistible.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer frying, baking, or a gluten-free twist, this recipe caters to all tastes.
Quick Prep: With straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in no time—perfect for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, and watch your guests rave about the flavor!
Flavor Explosion: The rich blend of spices and sauces creates a delightful experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large or Jumbo Shrimp – Main protein component; choose cleaned and deveined for convenience.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp and adds moisture; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the coating; gluten-free flour works as a great alternative for sensitive diets.
• Cornstarch – Helps to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
• Egg – Acts as a binder to hold the coating ingredients together.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
For the Seasoned Coating
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth to the shrimp’s flavor profile.
• Smoked Paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish.
• Hot Sauce – Brings heat; adjust to your desired spice level.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – For that light, crispy finish; regular breadcrumbs can substitute in a pinch.
For Frying
• Oil for Frying – Necessary for frying the shrimp; opt for a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
For the Dipping Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the base of the creamy dipping sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a delightful sweetness and heat—brands like Frank’s are highly recommended.
• Honey – Naturally sweetens the sauce, balancing the flavors.
• Salt and Pepper (for sauce) – Adjust to taste for a perfect balance.
Bang Bang Shrimp is truly a versatile dish that satisfies all cravings!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
-
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Once everything is combined, chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
-
Mix the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add an egg, buttermilk, and a splash of hot sauce, stirring until you achieve a smooth and creamy batter.
-
Coat the Shrimp: Toss your cleaned and deveined shrimp in the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them sit for a few minutes so they can absorb all those delicious flavors.
-
Breadcrumb Coating: Pour Panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Take each battered shrimp and coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a light, crispy layer forms around each one.
-
Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and achieve a beautiful crispiness.
-
Drain and Plate: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Drizzle with your chilled Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to 3 days in advance by mixing together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and seasoning, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Additionally, the shrimp can be coated in the batter and breadcrumbs up to 24 hours ahead; just store them in a single layer in the fridge to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to enjoy your shrimp, simply fry them until golden brown and crispy, and drizzle with the chilled sauce for an effortlessly indulgent treat!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
To create the perfect meal experience, consider these sumptuous pairings that beautifully complement the bold flavors of your shrimp dish.
-
Crispy Fried Rice: A light and flavorful option, this dish absorbs any delicious sauces, adding a satisfying texture to your meal. It’s the perfect base to catch all those heavenly spicy notes.
-
Cool Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad adds a vibrant crunch that balances the heat of the shrimp while enhancing the dish’s overall freshness.
-
Garlic Noodles: This savory side dish introduces an umami-rich, buttery flavor that perfectly contrasts the zingy shrimp. Serve it alongside for a satisfying and hearty feel.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Customize with seasonal veggies for a colorful platter that adds both nutrients and a touch of sweet caramelization, offering a delightful contrast to the spicy shrimp.
-
Asian Slaw: A quick blend of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing brings an excellent crunch and acidity that elevates the entire meal, marrying beautifully with the rich shrimp.
-
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Enhance the experience with an extra side of this sauce for those who love a little extra spice and sweetness to dip their shrimp in.
-
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: To wash it down, serve a refreshing drink that will cool your palate after those spicy bites. The fruity notes will ultimately complement the dish perfectly.
-
Mango Sorbet: As a light dessert, this fruity treat will cleanse your palate after the richness of the shrimp, leaving you satisfied yet wanting more.
Each of these delightful pairings brings a unique touch, ensuring your Bang Bang Shrimp meal is memorable and full of flavor!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own by experimenting with different flavors and cooking methods!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and Panko for gluten-free versions to enjoy this treat without worry.
- Baking Option: For a healthier twist, bake or air-fry the shrimp at 425°F for 15-18 minutes until crispy, though the flavor will remain.
- Lettuce Wraps: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy twist—perfect for a light meal!
- Tropical Kick: Add pineapple chunks or mango into the sauce for a fruity twist that complements the spicy flavors beautifully.
- Coconut Crunch: Mix shredded coconut into the Panko breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor and texture that brings a hint of the tropics.
- Heat Levels: Adjust the hot sauce amount in the batter and sauce according to your spice preference, or try a spicy chili paste for an added kick.
- Creamy Avocado: Serve with slices of avocado on the side for a creamy, rich complement to the spicy shrimp.
- Herbed Blends: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the sauce for a fragrant finish that elevates the dish.
Experimenting with these variations will not only keep your taste buds excited but also make every meal a new adventure!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
• Batch Frying: To achieve the crispiest Bang Bang Shrimp, fry them in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of frying.
• Dry Shrimp: Always pat the shrimp dry before dredging them in batter. This prevents the coating from becoming soggy and ensures a perfect crunch.
• Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier twist, bake the coated shrimp at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness, though this will result in a less crispy texture.
• Adjust the Heat: Personalize the spice level in both the sauce and the batter by adjusting the amount of hot sauce used. A little extra can go a long way!
• Storage Tips: For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Enjoy the shrimp fresh for the best taste!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It’s best to consume them fresh for optimal flavor.
Freezer: If you want to freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a hot oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in sogginess.
Preparation Tip: If you plan on freezing, consider making extra shrimp to enjoy later, ensuring a deliciousness available whenever the craving strikes!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose large or jumbo shrimp that are cleaned and deveined for convenience. Fresh shrimp is preferable, but frozen shrimp can also work; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to maintain a great texture.
How should I store leftovers of Bang Bang Shrimp?
To maintain the dish’s deliciousness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume them as soon as possible.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. After about 2 hours, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Enjoy them within 2 months for the best quality. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in a hot oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my shrimp coating isn’t crispy?
Very! If your coating isn’t crispy, ensure the shrimp were patted dry before coating, as moisture can prevent crispiness. Also, you can try frying in small batches; overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than fry, resulting in sogginess. Baking at a lower temperature may also yield a less crispy texture, so stick to frying for maximum crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, simply substitute all-purpose flour and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. If you’re concerned about allergies, make sure to check that other ingredients, especially sauces, don’t contain any allergens for your guests. Always adjust the level of hot sauce based on personal preferences to cater to everyone’s taste.
What’s the best way to ensure my Bang Bang Shrimp turns out flavorful?
To achieve optimum flavor, let the battered shrimp sit for a few minutes before frying. This allows the shrimp to absorb the spices in the batter fully. For an extra kick, don’t hesitate to add more hot sauce to both the batter and the dipping sauce according to your heat preference. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy, Creamy, and So Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Chill in the fridge until serving.
- Mix the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add an egg, buttermilk, and hot sauce, stirring until smooth.
- Coat the Shrimp: Toss your shrimp in the batter until evenly coated. Let sit for a few minutes.
- Breadcrumb Coating: Coat each battered shrimp in Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain and Plate: Remove shrimp from skillet and drain on paper towels. Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately.