The first time I took a bite of Bang Bang Shrimp, it felt like fireworks in my mouth! The delightful crunch of each crispy shrimp, coated in a silky, spicy sauce, made me understand why this dish has become a staple in so many homes and restaurants. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe manages to pack a flavor punch without requiring hours in the kitchen.
With just a handful of ingredients and the option to air fry for a healthier twist, it’s a versatile treat the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to shake up your weeknight meal routine, these Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp come to the rescue. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into a recipe that promises to bring joy to your table!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Try?
Unforgettable Flavor: The crispy shrimp paired with a creamy, spicy sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Quick Prep: Ready in 20 minutes or less, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying without the hassle.
Versatile Options: Whether you choose to fry or air fry, this dish can cater to your cooking style, making it adaptable for everyone.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike will love the crunch and delightful taste, making it an ideal appetizer or main dish for family gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of staples, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish at home. If you’re looking for more quick and delicious meals, check out our guide on easy weeknight dinners.
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Jumbo Shrimp – Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp provide optimal texture for this delicious Bang Bang Shrimp recipe.
• Buttermilk – Acts as a tenderizer for the shrimp; mix whole milk with lemon juice if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.
• Cornstarch – Gives the shrimp a delightful crispy coating; feel free to substitute it with potato or tapioca starch if needed.
• Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying; any neutral oil works well to get that perfect crunch.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the shrimp’s flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Black Pepper – Provides a touch of mild heat that elevates the dish.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Japanese Mayonnaise – A creamy base for the sauce; regular mayonnaise can be used if you prefer.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Functions as the sweet and tangy backbone of the sauce; don’t skip this!
• Sriracha Sauce – Adjust based on your spice preference to add that beloved kick to the sauce.
For Garnish
• Green Onion – Chopped green onion adds a fresh, vibrant touch as a garnish, making your Bang Bang Shrimp truly pop.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this tasty Bang Bang Shrimp dish!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
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Prepare Shrimp: Soak the peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This step adds tenderness and flavor to your shrimp, ensuring a juicy bite.
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Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until well combined. This creamy, spicy sauce is what makes the dish sing!
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Coat Shrimp: In a shallow dish, stir together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Thoroughly dredge the shrimp in this mixture for a crispy exterior when cooked.
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Fry Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, reaching 350°F. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 1.5 minutes on each side, until they become golden brown and crispy. Drain them on a wire rack or a paper towel.
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Combine: Toss the crispy shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated, then garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot, and watch them disappear!
Optional: Serve with fried rice or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crunchiness.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer, then transfer to airtight bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the shrimp are warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain texture.
Make-Ahead Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week, making preparations easier for your next family meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can soak the peeled shrimp in buttermilk and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours to enhance their flavor and tenderness. Additionally, prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time by mixing it together and storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in the cornstarch mixture and fry them fresh for that irresistible crunch. This not only saves you time but guarantees you enjoy just as delicious results with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring these delicious variations and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a mixture of almond milk and vinegar for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Replace cornstarch with rice flour to achieve that crispy coating without gluten.
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Crispy Style: Instead of frying, coat shrimp in breadcrumbs for a crunchy, oven-baked alternative that’s equally delightful.
- Protein Swap: Try chicken, sturdy white fish, or even tofu to bring different flavors and textures to the table.
- Sauce Variations: Swap Thai sweet chili sauce for a mango or pineapple salsa for a tropical twist everyone will love.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh cilantro or basil into the Bang Bang sauce for a pop of freshness and aromatic flavor.
- Zesty Garnish: Top with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten up the dish and add a zesty finish.
Embrace your culinary creativity and customize each bite to your family’s taste!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Looking to create a delightful meal alongside your crispy masterpiece? Let’s explore some delicious pairings that will elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully, balancing flavors while adding a fragrant touch.
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Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with vinaigrette provides a vibrant contrast to the crispy shrimp, making every bite feel light and refreshing.
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Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles are a deliciously comforting side, bringing a burst of flavor that complements the shrimp’s spicy profile wonderfully.
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Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, zoodles provide a fun, lower-carb side option that soaks up the Bang Bang sauce perfectly.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: With its crunch and zesty dressing, this slaw adds a refreshing element while enhancing the meal’s Asian-inspired theme.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The slight sweetness of these fries contrasts beautifully with the heat of the shrimp, creating a delightful flavor combination.
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Coconut Rice: Adding a tropical twist, coconut rice’s subtle sweetness pairs harmoniously with the spicy shrimp, making for an exciting culinary experience.
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Sake or Riesling: A crisp glass of sake or a sweet Riesling complements the dish’s spiciness and enhances the overall flavor of your meal.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this Thai classic provides a sweet and creamy finish that balances the meal and keeps your taste buds dancing.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
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Oil Temperature: Start frying only when the oil is around 350°F to achieve that golden, crispy texture that’s essential for perfect Bang Bang Shrimp.
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Batch Cooking: Fry shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy shrimp instead of the crispy crunch you want.
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Substitution Secrets: If buttermilk isn’t on hand, just mix whole milk with lemon juice. This simple swap will still give your shrimp that tender touch.
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Sauce Balance: Taste your Bang Bang sauce before tossing in the shrimp. Adjust the sriracha to ensure it meets your heat preference, keeping it delicious for everyone.
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Air Frying Tip: For a healthier option, spray the air fryer basket with oil and cook at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, ensuring to flip halfway for even crispiness.
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely, fresh, jumbo shrimp are ideal! They should be peeled and deveined to ensure optimal texture and ease of cooking. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works too—just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend using an oven rather than a microwave to help maintain that crispy texture—just pop them in at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze cooked Bang Bang Shrimp! Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to airtight freezer bags. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them in a skillet.
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What if my Bang Bang Sauce isn’t spicy enough?
No worries, you can easily adjust the spice! If your sauce is too mild, try adding more sriracha gradually. Mix well, taste, and keep adjusting to hit that perfect level of heat for your preference. Remember, it’s all about what feels good to you!
What’s a good alternative to buttermilk for this recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk at home, you can make a quick substitute by mixing one cup of whole milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to thicken—this will tenderize your shrimp just fine!
Can pets eat Bang Bang Shrimp?
As tempting as it might be to share, it’s best not to feed Bang Bang Shrimp to pets. The seasoning, especially garlic and certain sauces, can be harmful to them. Always check with a vet if you’re unsure about sharing your meals!
These are just a few FAQs to help you along your way to making perfect Bang Bang Shrimp!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Ready in 20 Minutes or Less
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Soak the peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until well combined.
- In a shallow dish, stir together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Thoroughly dredge the shrimp in this mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, reaching 350°F. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 1.5 minutes on each side, until they become golden brown and crispy.
- Toss the crispy shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated, then garnish with chopped green onions.