Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that has captured the hearts of seafood lovers everywhere. With its irresistible crunch and a sauce that packs a flavorful punch, this recipe is perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to lively gatherings. Whether you’re indulging in a splurge at a restaurant or whipping up a batch at home, the joy of biting into perfectly cooked shrimp smothered in a creamy, spicy sauce is hard to beat. I remember my first taste of Bang Bang Shrimp at a bustling bistro, and I couldn’t help but wonder how to replicate that magic in my own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are countless reasons to try your hand at Bang Bang Shrimp, but let’s start with the flavor. The shrimp are coated in a light cornstarch crust that turns golden and crispy when fried, creating a lovely contrast to the creamy sweetness of the Thai chili sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal, this dish can be whipped up in under an hour, making it a go-to for busy evenings. Plus, it’s kid-approved, thanks to the appealing textures and mild, flavorful sauce.
“I’ve made Bang Bang Shrimp twice this month! My family can’t get enough of it. The spice level is perfect for everyone!” — A satisfied home cook
Step-by-Step Overview
Creating Bang Bang Shrimp is straightforward, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Here’s what to expect: you’ll start with marinating the shrimp in a mixture of buttermilk and spices, coat them in cornstarch, and then fry them until they achieve that perfect golden hue. Once fried, they’re tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that will leave you reaching for more. It’s a delightful process that results in a truly mouthwatering dish.
What You’ll Need
To make Bang Bang Shrimp, here’s what you’ll gather from the pantry and fridge:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce (adjust to taste)
You can easily substitute the buttermilk with regular milk plus a splash of vinegar, or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let this marinate for about 10 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Prepare a shallow dish with cornstarch for dredging the shrimp.
- One at a time, remove a piece of shrimp from the marinade, shake off the excess, and dredge it in cornstarch. Place on a baking sheet.
- Heat 1 ½ inches of oil to 350°F in a large pot. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes or until golden brown, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 145°F before removing.
- After frying, transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- In a separate large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Stir well, then add the fried shrimp, tossing gently to coat before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Bang Bang Shrimp can be served in so many delightful ways! Consider plating it over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside a crisp, fresh salad for a balanced meal. You could also serve it as an appetizer at your next get-together, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a light and refreshing beverage like iced tea or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for an elevated dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Bang Bang Shrimp fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When it’s time to enjoy again, the best way to reheat is in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes for that crispy texture to return, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Helpful Cooking Tips
For those wanting to elevate their Bang Bang Shrimp, consider these pro tips:
- Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying to avoid greasy shrimp.
- Use high-quality mayonnaise for the sauce to achieve the best flavor profile.
- If you enjoy a crunchier texture, double-dredge the shrimp by dipping them in the buttermilk and cornstarch twice.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment with this classic recipe! You can add a touch of lime juice for a zesty flavor or replace the Sriracha with another hot sauce to customize the heat level. For a unique twist, try tossing the shrimp with chopped cilantro or sesame seeds for added freshness and texture.
Common Questions
What is Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious dish typically featuring crispy fried shrimp tossed in a spicy, creamy sauce made with mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce.How long does it take to prepare?
The total time to prepare Bang Bang Shrimp, including marinating and frying, is approximately 30-40 minutes.Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute cornstarch for your dredge, as it is naturally gluten-free.
Bang Bang Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let this marinate for about 10 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Prepare a shallow dish with cornstarch for dredging the shrimp.
- One at a time, remove a piece of shrimp from the marinade, shake off the excess, and dredge it in cornstarch. Place on a baking sheet.
- Heat 1 ½ inches of oil to 350°F in a large pot. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes or until golden brown, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 145°F before removing.
- Transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- In a separate large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Stir well, then add the fried shrimp, tossing gently to coat before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian