As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing scent of sizzling shrimp filled the air, and I couldn’t help but smile. Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp has become a must-have in my home, captivating my family and friends alike with its addictive crunch and zesty flavor. This recipe not only comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner, but it also strikes a lovely balance between indulgence and ease. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple frying technique, you’ll create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. Imagine serving this crowd-pleaser alongside fried rice or a light salad—it’s sure to impress. Ready to whip up a batch that keeps everyone coming back for more? Let’s dive into the magic of crispy, homemade Bang Bang Shrimp!
Why is Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Make?
Irresistible flavor comes from the unique fusion of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha, creating a tangy coating you won't forget. Quick preparation makes this dish an ideal weeknight dinner, clocking in at just 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfectly crispy texture is achieved through a simple dredging process that ensures each shrimp is golden and crunchy. Versatile serving options pair effortlessly with fried rice or a fresh salad, making it easy to elevate any meal. Crowd-pleaser status means it's a guaranteed hit at gatherings, leaving family and friends raving for more! Let’s not wait; your taste buds are ready for this delightful experience!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Jumbo Shrimp – Fresh, peeled, and deveined for that delightful bite.
• Buttermilk – Acts as a tenderizer, giving the shrimp a juicy texture.
For the Coating
• Cornstarch – Creates that perfectly crispy exterior; substitute with potato or tapioca starch if needed.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors, making each bite savory.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a deliciously aromatic flavor to the coating.
• Black Pepper – Complements the spices with a subtle kick.
For the Sauce
• Japanese Mayonnaise – Provides a creamy base; regular mayonnaise can be used for a simpler option.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Delivers a sweet and tangy flavor that defines Bang Bang shrimp.
• Sriracha Sauce – Adjust according to your spice preference for a personalized heat level.
For Garnishing
• Green Onion – Chopped for a fresh garnish that adds color and mild onion flavor.
Get ready to indulge in the irresistible taste of Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp
Step 1: Soak the Shrimp
Begin by soaking the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This step is vital as it tenderizes the shrimp and infuses them with flavor. Make sure to submerge the shrimp completely, allowing them to soak up the luscious buttermilk goodness. Meanwhile, prep your workspace for the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until you achieve a smooth and well-combined sauce. This Bang Bang sauce brings the perfect creamy and spicy kick to your crispy Bang Bang shrimp. Set the sauce aside so that the flavors meld while you move on to the next step.
Step 3: Make the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well to ensure even distribution of the spices. Once mixed, take each shrimp out of the buttermilk individually, allowing excess to drip off, and thoroughly dredge them in this coating mixture. Each shrimp should be fully covered for that irresistible crunch.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small pinch of the coating mixture; it should sizzle immediately. This temperature is crucial for frying the shrimp to a perfect golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on the oil to avoid overheating.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch for approximately 1.5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, maintaining that delightful crunch.
Step 6: Toss in the Sauce
Once all the shrimp are fried and crispy, place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle your prepared Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp, tossing gently but thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated. The rich, tangy sauce will beautifully enhance the crispy texture of your Bang Bang shrimp.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your crispy Bang Bang shrimp with the chopped green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately, allowing everyone to savor the delightful crunch and zesty goodness. Your homemade Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp is ready to impress, whether with fried rice or a refreshing salad.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can soak the shrimp in buttermilk for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to absorb moisture and flavor, which enhances their juiciness during cooking. Additionally, the Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week, remaining just as delicious when it's time to toss the shrimp. When you're ready to fry, simply dredge the buttermilk-soaked shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, heat the oil, and fry them until golden brown. This method ensures you enjoy restaurant-quality results without the last-minute scramble!
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with fresh, vibrant sides that complement its zesty crunch.
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Fried Rice: A classic pairing that adds satisfying texture and flavor, perfectly balancing the shrimp's crispy exterior.
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Crisp Garden Salad: Light and refreshing, a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette brightens each bite of shrimp.
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Asian Slaw: With crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing, this slaw introduces a fresh bite that harmonizes beautifully with the shrimp's richness.
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Garlic Noodles: Rich with umami, garlic noodles offer a lovely contrast to the Bang Bang shrimp, creating a full, filling meal.
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Steamed Edamame: These tender pods sprinkled with sea salt make for a healthy side that adds a burst of flavor without overshadowing the shrimp.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the Bang Bang sauce for a delightful sip.
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Mango Salsa: Sweet and savory, this fruity concoction adds an exciting tropical twist that enhances the shrimp's bold flavors.
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Coconut Rice: Creamy and subtly sweet, coconut rice provides a comforting base that complements the spiciness of the shrimp beautifully.
Expert Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp
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Perfect Soak Time: Soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 10 minutes ensures they are tender and well-flavored, enhancing the overall taste of your crispy Bang Bang shrimp.
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Oil Temperature Matters: Heating the oil to exactly 350°F is crucial. If it’s too hot, the shrimp will burn; too low, and they’ll become greasy. A kitchen thermometer is handy for accuracy!
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Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. Fry in smaller batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve that desired crunchy exterior.
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Even Coating: Make sure each shrimp is thoroughly dredged in the coating mixture. An even coating allows for consistent crispy texture and better flavor throughout the shrimp.
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Tossing Technique: Gently toss the shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce to prevent them from losing their crispiness. Aim for a light coating for the best experience!
Storage Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp
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Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.
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Freezer: For longer storage, lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to airtight freezer bags. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To maintain their crispy texture, reheat the shrimp in an oven set to 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
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Make-Ahead: You can soak the shrimp in buttermilk and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, easing the prep for a last-minute meal.
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists to make the dish truly your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk and a splash of lemon juice for a creamy alternative. This keeps it flavorful yet dairy-free.
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Spicy kick: Add more sriracha to the sauce or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper in the coating for added heat. Just remember, you can always start low and adjust to your spice preference!
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Low-Carb: Use almond flour instead of cornstarch to create a low-carb version that still delivers that delightful crunch without the extra carbs. You won’t even miss the traditional coatings!
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Asian Flair: Stir in a teaspoon of sesame oil into the Bang Bang sauce for a nutty, delicious twist, complementing the flavors beautifully.
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Panko coating: Replace cornstarch with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture that adds a delightful crunch. It will make your shrimp irresistibly crunchy with every bite.
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Vegetable Option: Try using cauliflower or zucchini slices as a wonderful vegetarian alternative, following the same soaking and frying process. Their unique flavors pair beautifully with the sauce!
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Garlic Lovers: Add fresh minced garlic to the bang bang sauce for a bold garlic flavor that will elevate the dish. You might find that everyone asks for the secret ingredient!
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Herb Infused: Toss fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the crispy shrimp right before serving for an added layer of freshness that brightens the dish!
With these vibrant variations, your Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp will become even more exciting while fitting various dietary needs and flavor preferences. Enjoy experimenting!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for fresh jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp should be firm and have a mild scent; avoid any with dark spots all over the shell, as this can indicate they are not fresh. If you’re choosing frozen, opt for shrimp labeled “flash-frozen” for the best quality.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
You can store leftover Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and tasty! To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Bang Bang Shrimp, first, place the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 2 hours until they are firm, then transfer them to airtight freezer bags. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed!
What if my shrimp are overcooked and not crispy?
Very often, overcooked shrimp can turn out rubbery and lack that satisfying crunch. To prevent this, make sure not to fry them for more than 1.5 minutes on each side. If they do turn out overcooked, consider serving them in a flavorful sauce or inside tacos to mask the texture. Always keep an eye on the frying process to avoid this issue!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains shellfish, which can trigger allergies in some individuals. For a gluten-free alternative, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. If you're looking to avoid mayonnaise, you can substitute with yogurt instead. And for those concerned about spice, feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your taste!
Can I prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can! The Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to one week. Simply mix the Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a sealable container and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when you're ready to toss the shrimp.
Savor the Best Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp You'll Ever Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
- Combine cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F.
- Fry the coated shrimp in batches for 1.5 minutes on each side.
- Toss the fried shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
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