There’s something undeniably captivating about the crunch of crispy shrimp meeting a creamy, spicy sauce that ignites your taste buds. A busy weeknight turned into a flavorful adventure when I first experimented with a Bang Bang Shrimp recipe, and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since. Picture succulent jumbo shrimp, coated in a luscious blanket of rich mayonnaise, sweet chili, and a dash of sriracha—a perfect balance of flavors that transforms these seafood delights into a sensational main dish or party appetizer.
This recipe is not only quick and easy, making it ideal for those hectic evenings or a last-minute gathering, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re opting for air-fried shrimp, trying it with chicken, or even going plant-based with tofu, the options are all delicious! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredible Bang Bang Shrimp that’s sure to have everyone coming back for more.
Why will you love Bang Bang Shrimp?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Crispy Texture: The cornstarch coating achieves an irresistible crunch that keeps the shrimp juicy inside. Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy mayo, sweet chili, and spicy sriracha gives a fantastic balance of flavors that everyone will rave about. Versatile Options: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, making it suitable for various diets. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it as a stunning appetizer or a main dish, and watch your guests come back for seconds! Plus, for those interested in healthier alternatives, don’t miss our tips on air frying—it’s just as delicious!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
• For the Shrimp
- Jumbo Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for a hassle-free experience that delivers all the flavor.
- Buttermilk – This tenderizer ensures a juicy bite; whole milk mixed with lemon juice works too.
- Cornstarch – Key for creating that crispy coating; try potato or tapioca starch if needed.
- Vegetable Oil – Required for frying; any neutral oil will do the trick for that perfect crunch.
- Salt – Elevates the flavor profile, making every bite delightful.
- Garlic Powder – This aromatic addition deepens the flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
- Black Pepper – Provides a touch of heat and balances the flavors beautifully.
- Green Onion – Adds a vibrant garnish and a refreshing crunch.
• For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Japanese Mayonnaise – This creamy base is essential for the sauce’s richness; use regular mayonnaise if preferred.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – This ingredient brings the perfect amount of sweetness and tang, essential for true Bang Bang Shrimp.
- Sriracha Sauce – For that spicy kick; adjust the amount depending on your heat preference.
You’re on your way to preparing a mouthwatering dish that everyone will adore!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
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Tenderize Shrimp: In a medium bowl, submerge the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This step is essential for achieving tender, juicy shrimp that bursts with flavor.
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Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir until smooth and creamy, then set aside. This sauce will bring everything together with a deliciously spicy twist.
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Coat Shrimp: In a shallow bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Dredge each shrimp in the mixture until fully coated, creating that sought-after crispy outer layer.
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Heat Oil: In a large skillet or a heavy-bottom pan, heat vegetable oil to medium (about 350°F). Make sure the oil is hot enough but not smoking; this is key for a perfectly crispy finish.
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Fry Shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches for about 1.5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crunchy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they fry evenly and maintain their crispiness.
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Drain Oil: Once cooked, place the crispy shrimp on a wire rack or paper towel to drain off excess oil. This step is crucial to keep the shrimp from becoming soggy.
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Mix with Sauce: In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with the prepared Bang Bang Sauce until they are well-coated. This mix will add a flavorful punch, binding all the elements together.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh touch and an appealing presentation. Enjoy the tantalizing flavors right away!
Optional: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zest that enhances the dish’s flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
- Room Temperature: Bang Bang Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the texture may change.
- Freezer: Not recommended for freezing, as the crispy coating will lose its crunch upon thawing. Enjoy fresh for optimal flavor!
- Reheating: If reheating, use an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to help regain some of the crispiness without making it soggy.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
- Avoid Overcrowding: Frying too many shrimp at once leads to steam, making them soggy. Cook in batches for perfect crispiness.
- Air Frying Alternative: If using an air fryer, lightly oil the basket and arrange shrimp in a single layer for an even crunch, cooking at 400°F for 7-8 minutes.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly thawed shrimp rather than frozen to enhance texture and ensure maximum juiciness in your Bang Bang Shrimp.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust sriracha based on your heat preference; taste as you mix for the perfect sweet-spicy balance.
- Drain Properly: After frying, place shrimp on a wire rack or paper towels to eliminate excess oil, preserving that delightful crispy texture.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bang Bang Shrimp in advance can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for up to 24 hours, ensuring they stay tender and flavorful. The Bang Bang Sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just stir it again before using to recombine the ingredients. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the marinated shrimp in cornstarch and fry them fresh, which keeps that irresistible crunch intact. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort while still achieving restaurant-quality results right at home!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Transform your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp into a full meal with these delightful pairings that balance textures and flavors beautifully.
- Cauliflower Rice: This light, fluffy side provides a great, low-carb alternative that soaks up the spicy sauce perfectly.
- Egg Drop Soup: Creamy and savory, this comforting soup complements the crispy shrimp and adds delightful warmth to your meal.
- Lo Mein: Twirly, savory noodles make for a hearty pairing that melds with the flavors of the Bang Bang sauce.
- Asian Slaw: Crunchy, refreshing cabbage loaded with vibrant veggies enhances the dish’s texture and provides a bright contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple, healthy side that brings color and nutrients, while the light bitterness complements the sweetness of the shrimp.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy and subtly sweet, this rice offers a tropical flavor that elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
- Chilled Sake: Enjoy the smooth, crisp profile of cold sake, which pairs wonderfully with the spicy notes of the shrimp.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the sweet, sticky rice and ripe mango create a lovely finale that balances the shrimp’s heat with natural sweetness.
- Asian-inspired Tapas Platter: Create an exciting mix with dumplings or spring rolls to accompany your Bang Bang Shrimp for a fun fiesta!
Let your culinary creativity shine as you mix and match these pairings for a memorable meal that’s sure to delight!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Customize your Bang Bang Shrimp experience with these delicious twists and options that will tickle your taste buds!
- Air-Fried: For a healthier version, air fry shrimp at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway for crispy perfection.
- Chicken Substitute: Swap shrimp for diced chicken thighs, adding similar flavors without losing that crispy texture.
- Tofu Swap: Use extra-firm tofu instead of shrimp for a plant-based twist that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Crispy Vegetables: Add in some thinly sliced bell peppers or zucchini, coated and fried alongside the shrimp for a veggie boost.
- Heat Adjustments: Increase the sriracha for a fiery kick, or try adding some crushed red pepper for extra heat.
- Creative Sauces: Experiment with spicy aioli or a tangy yogurt sauce instead of the traditional Bang Bang Sauce for a unique flavor palette.
- Lettuce Wraps: Serve the shrimp in crisp lettuce wraps with shredded carrots and fresh herbs for a fresh, crunchy experience.
- Taco Style: Make it a taco night by placing the shrimp in corn tortillas, adding fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish.
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! I recommend using jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined to save time and enhance flavor. Look for shrimp that have a firm texture and a slight sheen. If you’re in a pinch, medium shrimp can work too—just adjust cooking time slightly as they will cook faster!
How should I store leftovers of Bang Bang Shrimp?
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the crispy coating may lose its crunch over time. It’s best to enjoy them fresh when they’re at their peak flavor and texture!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
I don’t recommend freezing Bang Bang Shrimp, as the crispy coating will lose its texture when thawed. However, if you really want to freeze them, you could freeze the uncoated shrimp mixed with buttermilk. Just note that they will be best when enjoyed fresh!
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What can I do if my shrimp are soggy after frying?
If your shrimp turn out soggy, it might be due to overcrowding the pan while frying or not allowing them to drain properly on paper towels. For added crispiness, you might want to double coat them in cornstarch before frying or try air frying them, which helps retain the crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you have any allergies, be mindful of the ingredients, especially the coat and sauce components—peanut allergies, for example, might make the Thai sweet chili sauce a concern if it contains traces. Substitutions like using tofu in place of shrimp can offer a delightful vegetarian option as well!
How can I enhance the sauce’s flavors?
Feel free to customize the Bang Bang Sauce! Adjust the sriracha based on your heat preference—start with less and add more as you taste. You could also incorporate a splash of fresh lime juice for an extra zesty kick or a hint of sesame oil for a nutty flavor. Get creative and find your perfect balance!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp: Quick & Spicy Perfection at Home
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- In a medium bowl, submerge the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine the Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir until smooth and creamy, then set aside.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Dredge each shrimp in the mixture until fully coated.
- In a large skillet or heavy-bottom pan, heat vegetable oil to medium (about 350°F).
- Fry the shrimp in batches for about 1.5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crunchy.
- Once cooked, place the crispy shrimp on a wire rack or paper towel to drain off excess oil.
- In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with the prepared Bang Bang Sauce until well-coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions.