Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together crispy, golden shrimp and a homemade sweet and spicy sauce. Perfect for appetizers or casual gatherings, this recipe offers a burst of flavor that will impress your guests. Its unique combination of textures and tastes makes it an ideal choice for any occasion, from dinner parties to game day snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 12 minutes, you can whip up this delicious appetizer in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve Bang Bang Shrimp on its own, over a bed of lettuce, or as a topping for tacos—it’s adaptable to your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to be a hit at gatherings, satisfying both shrimp lovers and those who enjoy bold flavors.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to suit your taste—make it mild or fiery hot!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Bang Bang Shrimp effectively, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottom pot
• Candy thermometer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottom pot: Provides even heat distribution while frying, preventing oil from overheating and ensuring perfectly cooked shrimp.
• Candy thermometer: Ensures the oil reaches the ideal frying temperature (375°F) for crispy results every time.

Ingredients

Bang Bang Shrimp is shrimp that is fried to a crispy, golden brown and coated with a homemade sweet and spicy bang bang sauce.

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• ½ teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail removed)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornstarch
• Canola oil (for frying)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

In another bowl, add the shrimp. Pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring each piece is coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Cornstarch

In a third small bowl, pour in the cornstarch. This will be used for coating the shrimp.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large heavy-bottom pot, add about 1 inch of canola oil. Heat over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 375°F.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

Working in batches:
1. Remove shrimp from buttermilk allowing excess to drip off.
2. Coat each shrimp in cornstarch.
3. Carefully place coated shrimp into hot oil.
4. Fry for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden brown on each side. Repeat with remaining shrimp.

Step 6: Coat with Sauce

While hot, immediately coat the fried shrimp with prepared sauce and serve right away for optimal crispiness.

With this simple yet flavorful recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp, you can create an irresistible dish that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience! The crispy shrimp paired with the sweet and spicy sauce makes for a delightful appetizer. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Appetizer

• Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating during gatherings or parties.

With Fresh Greens

• Place the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with extra bang bang sauce for added flavor. This adds a refreshing crunch.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create shrimp tacos. Top with shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lime for a zesty twist.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the shrimp alongside steamed rice or quinoa. This balances the meal and provides a hearty base.

On Sliders

• Create mini sliders by placing shrimp on small buns with lettuce and more sauce. Perfect for casual get-togethers!

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer various dipping sauces alongside the shrimp, such as additional Thai sweet chili sauce or a zesty lime vinaigrette.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

To achieve the ultimate Bang Bang Shrimp, follow these simple tips that will enhance your cooking process and flavor profile.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or well-thawed shrimp to ensure optimal texture and taste in your dish.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on your oil temperature while frying. Consistent heat at 375°F helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to soggy shrimp.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of Sriracha in the sauce according to your heat preference.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your Bang Bang Shrimp right after frying while they are still hot and crispy.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an appealing presentation and added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Shrimp can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish wonderfully.

1. Coconut Rice: Soft and fragrant rice cooked with coconut milk adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
2. Garlic Noodles: These noodles tossed in garlic butter offer a comforting side that balances the spice of the shrimp.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides freshness and texture.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Season seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini; their smokiness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the shrimp.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a sweet element to your plate, enhancing flavors perfectly.
6. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame beans make for a fun finger food addition that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
7. Mango Salsa: A vibrant mango salsa adds a fruity zing that complements the spicy notes of your main dish.
8. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Shrimp can be easy, but there are common missteps that can affect the dish’s taste and texture. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Not Prepping the Shrimp Properly: Failing to peel and devein shrimp can lead to unpleasant textures. Always prep your shrimp beforehand for the best results.
• Skipping the Buttermilk: Not soaking shrimp in buttermilk may lead to less tender shrimp. This step adds flavor and helps the cornstarch stick.
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Using oil that isn’t hot enough can result in greasy shrimp. Make sure the oil reaches 375°F before frying.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature. Work in small batches for crispy results.
• Ignoring Sauce Proportions: Adjusting sauce ingredients without tasting can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always taste and tweak as needed.
• Serving Cold: Serving Bang Bang Shrimp cold can diminish its appeal. Serve immediately after frying for optimal enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Use within 1-2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place shrimp on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time, but note this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Shrimp.

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish featuring crispy fried shrimp coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.

Can I use frozen shrimp for my Bang Bang Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing to ensure even cooking.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Shrimp?

You can add different spices or herbs to your coating or vary the heat level of your sauce by adjusting Sriracha or adding more spices.

Is it possible to make a healthier version of Bang Bang Shrimp?

Absolutely! You could bake instead of fry the shrimp or use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter option.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust the spice levels or try different sauces based on your preferences. Whether as an appetizer or part of a meal, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try it out and customize it to your taste!