Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious and crispy dish that brings a delightful crunch and a kick of flavor to your table. This recipe features tender shrimp coated in a crunchy crust and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s perfect as an appetizer or as a main dish, making it loved by many.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Bang Bang Shrimp at home is a great way to enjoy restaurant-style food in your own kitchen. Not only is it quick to prepare, but the combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit at parties and family dinners. Plus, you can customize the spice level to suit your taste!

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Follow these simple steps to create your own mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Directions

1. In a shallow bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
3. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each shrimp first into the cornstarch mixture, then into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients for the Bang Bang sauce until smooth.
9. Toss the fried shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce until fully coated.
10. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is best served hot and fresh. You can enjoy it on its own or alongside a bed of lettuce for a healthier option. Additionally, it makes a great topping for tacos or a scrumptious filling for sandwiches.

How to Store Bang Bang Shrimp

If you have leftovers, let the Bang Bang Shrimp cool down, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, it’s best to reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

Tips to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the shrimp to get that perfect crispy texture.
• You can adjust the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce by adding more or less sriracha to fit your taste.
• For a twist, try adding some chopped green onions or sesame seeds to the sauce for extra flavor.

Variation

For a healthier version, you can bake the shrimp instead of frying them. Simply spray them with cooking spray and place them on a baking sheet, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. How can I make the Bang Bang sauce less spicy?
To make the sauce less spicy, reduce the amount of sriracha or leave it out entirely. You can add a little more sweet chili sauce for sweetness.

3. Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp in advance?
You can prepare the shrimp and the sauce in advance. However, it’s best to fry the shrimp just before serving for the best texture and flavor.