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If you’re craving something crispy, creamy, and packed with a delightful kick, this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes tender, juicy shrimp and elevates them with a sensational sauce that balances sweetness, spice, and creaminess in every bite. Perfect for an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside and bursting with bold flavors inside. I promise, once you try this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites to serve at gatherings or to enjoy any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the buttermilk marinade that tenderizes the shrimp to the spicy-sweet sauce that dresses them, every component is essential to the final magic.
- 1 pound large shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and with tails removed, these are the star protein that introduces a sweet ocean flavor and tender bite.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: This tangy liquid marinates the shrimp, keeping them juicy and adding a subtle richness.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Brings a gentle depth and savoriness to the shrimp marinade.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Adds a delicate sweetness that complements the garlic.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides a mild, earthy bite to round out the seasoning.
- 3/4 cup corn starch: Creates that irresistible crispy coating when fried, locking in moisture.
- 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise: The creamy base for the sauce, offering richness and smoothness.
- 1 ½ tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce: Delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and gentle heat that defines the sauce.
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce: Adjust to your preferred spice level for an added fiery kick to the sauce.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Start by combining your peeled and deveined shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Letting the shrimp soak in this mixture for about 10 minutes not only tenderizes them but also infuses subtle layers of flavor that make every bite lively and juicy.
Step 2: Prepare for Frying
Next, spread your cornstarch out in a shallow dish. This simple yet essential step guarantees the shrimp get that classic crispy coating. Working with one shrimp at a time, lift it out of the marinade, let the excess drip off, then dredge it thoroughly in the cornstarch. Place each coated shrimp on a baking sheet while you finish with the rest.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden
Heat about 1 ½ inches of oil in a large pot to 350°F. When the oil is ready, fry the shrimp in small batches for about 2 minutes each until golden brown and irresistibly crispy. The internal temp should reach 145°F to ensure perfectly cooked shrimp. Drain the shrimp on paper towels to keep them crisp and ready for the next step.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce and Toss
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. This sauce is where the name Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe really shines, marrying creamy tanginess with just the right amount of sweet heat. Toss your hot, freshly fried shrimp in this sauce to coat them evenly and set the stage for a flavor explosion.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can elevate the presentation and flavor of your Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe. Consider sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh cilantro over the shrimp for a burst of color and a hint of herbal freshness. A squeeze of lime on top can add a lovely citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides that complement its bold flavors. Steamed jasmine rice or a light cabbage slaw with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the heat and creaminess. If you want to keep it casual, crispy French fries or a crunchy cucumber salad provide a refreshing texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dazzling presentation, try serving your Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe in lettuce cups or over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter take. You can also skewer the shrimp before tossing in the sauce for easy finger food at parties. Serving it in miniature cups or on toasted baguette slices makes for impressive appetizers that are as tasty as they are beautiful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp tastes great, though the texture might soften after sitting. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the shrimp separate from the sauce if possible and toss them together just before serving to maintain the best crunch.
Freezing
Because the shrimp are fried to a crispy finish, freezing is not the best option if you want to maintain that crunch. However, you can freeze raw marinated shrimp. Spread them in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed bag. Thaw before coating in cornstarch and frying fresh to enjoy the full bang bang experience.
Reheating
If you have leftover sauced shrimp, gently reheat them in a hot skillet over medium heat for a minute or two, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the sauce separate. If you kept the shrimp and sauce separate, reheat the shrimp alone in a dry pan to bring back some crispness before mixing with sauce again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before marinating. This helps them absorb flavors better and prevents excess moisture that can interfere with getting a crispy coating.
Is the sauce spicy?
The sauce has a friendly level of heat thanks to the Thai sweet chili sauce and adjustable Sriracha. You can customize the spice by adding more or less Sriracha depending on your heat preference.
Can I bake instead of frying the shrimp?
While frying gives the signature crunch, you can bake them at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through. The texture will be a bit different but still delicious!
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, and use that instead. It provides similar acidity to tenderize the shrimp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe uses cornstarch instead of wheat flour, making it suitable for a gluten-free diet. Just be sure your other ingredients like sauces are certified gluten-free if necessary.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe combines crispy, tender shrimp with that creamy, spicy sauce to deliver pure flavor happiness. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this gem to your recipe collection. Trust me, your taste buds and guests will thank you!
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Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy, spicy, and irresistibly creamy, Bang Bang Shrimp is a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring lightly battered shrimp fried to golden perfection and tossed in a zesty, sweet, and spicy mayo-based sauce. Perfect for game day, parties, or a flavorful weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading
- 3/4 cup corn starch
Sauce
- 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to coat and let marinate for 10 minutes to tenderize and infuse the shrimp with flavor.
- Prepare Cornstarch Dredge: Pour the cornstarch into a shallow dish or bowl for dredging the shrimp. This will create the crispy outer coating when fried.
- Coat the Shrimp: Remove each shrimp from the marinade one at a time, shaking off excess liquid, then dredge thoroughly in the cornstarch. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet while coating the rest.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat 1 1/2 inches of oil in a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches of 3 or so, cooking each batch for about 2 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a slotted spoon to transfer shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce and Toss: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth. Add the fried shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat each piece evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Enjoy the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately while crispy and coated with the spicy-sweet sauce, perfect for dipping or serving as an appetizer.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha according to your heat preference.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pot while frying to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Use high-quality mayonnaise for the best sauce flavor and texture.
- You can substitute cornstarch with potato starch for a crispier crust.
- Serve with lime wedges or chopped green onions for added zest and color.
