The sizzle of shrimp hitting hot oil fills the air, instantly igniting my excitement for a dish that feels like a cozy hug with an adventurous twist. Today, I’m diving into a favorite of mine—Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo. This easy-to-make delight captures the essence of Asian-American fusion cuisine, elevating the simple shrimp to a crispy, golden-brown masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, it’s the ideal choice when you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home. You’ll love how this recipe balances the crunch of fried shrimp with a creamy, tangy sauce that dances between sweet and spicy. Curious about how to create this memorable bite that’ll keep everyone asking for more? Let’s get started!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp a must-try?
Crispy Texture: Each shrimp is coated in cornstarch, ensuring a light crunch that you’ll crave bite after bite.
Bold Flavor: The sweet chili mayo marries creamy and spicy notes, elevating humble shrimp to a gourmet experience.
Quick Prep: Taking just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights without sacrificing flavor or fun!
Versatile Dish: Enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp as an appetizer, a main dish over rice, or even as a taco filling for varied meal options.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether serving friends or family, this dish is guaranteed to get rave reviews, reminiscent of your favorite restaurant Bang Bang Shrimp experience in the comfort of your own home.
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Peeled and deveined; this is the star ingredient, providing the main protein.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderness during the frying process; substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the shrimp’s natural flavor; don’t skip this step!
• Garlic Powder – Delivers aromatic depth; optional but recommended for a richer overall taste.
• Onion Powder – Complements garlic powder with a savory note that rounds out the flavor.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground is best for a subtle kick; adds a nice warmth to the dish.
• Cornstarch – Key for achieving that light, crispy coating; much preferred over flour for this recipe.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the chili mayo; using high-quality brands like Kewpie enhances the flavor significantly.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and a mild spicy kick, a critical component for that signature Bang Bang Shrimp taste.
• Sriracha Hot Sauce – Adjust to your heat preference; adds an extra layer of spice to the sauce for those who like it hot!
This collection of ingredients ensures that your Bang Bang Shrimp will tantalize the taste buds and create an unforgettable dining experience. You won’t regret bringing this delightful dish to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the large, peeled, and deveined shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated. Let the mixture marinate for about 10 minutes, allowing the buttermilk to tenderize the shrimp while enhancing the flavor profile.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp marinates, place cornstarch in a shallow dish, creating a coating station for the Bang Bang Shrimp. Once the shrimp has marinated, remove them one at a time, shaking off any excess buttermilk. Coat each shrimp evenly with the cornstarch, ensuring a thin layer adheres to create that perfect crispy texture.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy pot, pour in enough oil to reach about 1.5 inches deep for frying. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat. Use a thermometer to check the temperature; it’s crucial for frying the shrimp correctly. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for approximately 2 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the shrimp for even cooking, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to create the sweet chili mayo sauce. Mix well until smooth and creamy, balancing the flavors to your taste. The sauce should have a delightful blend of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of heat, perfect for pairing with the crispy Bang Bang Shrimp.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once the shrimp are fried and slightly cooled, add them to the bowl with the sauce. Toss gently to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated in the flavorful mixture. Serve your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp immediately for the best texture, potentially on a bed of rice or as a delightful appetizer to impress family and friends.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
• Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. Too low, and the shrimp will absorb oil; too high, they’ll burn.
• Coating Choice: Always use cornstarch for the coating instead of flour. It creates a lighter, crispier texture that elevates your Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Marinate Well: Allow shrimp to marinate for the full 10 minutes. This step is crucial for tenderness and flavor.
• Serve Fresh: Enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after frying. This preserves the crunchy texture, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Adjust the Heat: Experiment with Sriracha in the sauce to match your desired spice level. Start with a small amount and increase to taste for the perfect kick.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own with some fun twists and swaps that will excite your taste buds.
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Chicken or Tofu: Swap shrimp for chicken breast or tofu for a protein alternative that still gives a satisfying crunch. If using chicken, ensure it’s cooked through and tender!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk instead of buttermilk for a creamy, dairy-free marination. It provides a subtle nutty flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
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Add Herbs: Fresh cilantro or green onions can be added to the mayo for a pop of color and flavor. They not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also add a fresh, herbaceous note.
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Flavored Cornstarch: Mix in spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cornstarch for a fun, spicy twist. You’ll enjoy a burst of flavor with each crunchy bite!
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Sweet Heat: Drizzle honey or agave syrup over the finished shrimp for an extra layer of sweetness that balances the heat from the Sriracha. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors!
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Spicy Mayo Option: For an extra kick, blend in some kimchi or wasabi paste into the mayo. This bold addition takes the flavor up a notch and makes for an unforgettable experience.
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Crispy Panko: Substitute cornstarch with panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier coating. Your Bang Bang Shrimp will have an extra textural element that everyone will adore.
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Vegetable Medley: Serve your shrimp over a medley of sautéed bell peppers or broccoli for a vibrant and nutritious twist. The crunch of the veggies complements the dish perfectly.
Whatever direction you take, these variations will keep the heart of the dish while adding your unique flair to your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, add the sauce just before serving.
Freezer: You can freeze cooked Bang Bang Shrimp for up to 2 months. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the frozen Bang Bang Shrimp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This helps restore the crispy texture that makes it so delicious.
Freshness Tip: To enjoy the delightful texture and flavor, it’s best to serve Bang Bang Shrimp right after frying.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo
Enhance your meal with the perfect pairings that will elevate your Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp to new heights, creating a truly memorable feast.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice provides the perfect base to soak up the sweet and spicy sauce, rounding out each bite beautifully.
- Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the shrimp while infusing a delightful flavor.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the warm, crispy shrimp, making each bite exciting and well-rounded.
- Spicy Mango Salad: Juicy mango slices tossed with spicy thai dressing deliver a sweet and zesty kick that complements the savory shrimp perfectly. This vibrant dish adds both flavor and color to your plate!
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of roasted sweet potato fries contrasts beautifully with the savory shrimp, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
- Coconut Rice: Infused with rich coconut milk, this creamy rice adds a tropical twist that pairs nicely with the shrimp’s spicy notes, transporting your taste buds on a delicious journey.
- Chilled Sake or Light Beer: Enjoying a crisp, chilled sake or a light, refreshing beer enhances the meal, cleansing your palate and complementing the dish’s bold flavors.
Each of these options will create a delightful dining experience and keep your guests coming back for more of that irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk, salt, and spices up to 24 hours in advance—this not only saves time but enhances flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch before frying. When ready to serve, just heat the oil and fry the shrimp for about 2 minutes until golden brown. To maintain their crispy texture, serve immediately after frying, or keep them warm in a low oven if there’s a slight delay. This way, you’ll have delicious Bang Bang Shrimp that’s just as delightful as when freshly prepared!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! The best choice for Bang Bang Shrimp is large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw the frozen ones completely before marinating to maintain tenderness and flavor.
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in the fridge?
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, add the sweet chili mayo sauce just before serving, as it can make the coating soggy if added earlier.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very! You can freeze cooked Bang Bang Shrimp for up to 2 months. To do this, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to regain that crispy delight.
How can I troubleshoot soggy shrimp?
If your shrimp turn out soggy, it often happens due to the oil temperature being too low during frying. Ensure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying your shrimp. Also, make sure to coat the shrimp evenly with cornstarch and fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, allowing each piece to develop that perfect crunch.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily substitute it with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it to replicate the tangy flavor and acidity that buttermilk provides, which helps in tenderizing the shrimp.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For those with shellfish allergies, I recommend substituting shrimp with chicken or tofu for an equally satisfying dish. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the protein chosen. Always ensure that any sauces used are free from ingredients you may be allergic to as well!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with a Sweet Chili Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Place cornstarch in a shallow dish. Coat each shrimp with cornstarch after marinating.
- Heat oil in a large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a bowl.
- Toss fried shrimp in the sauce and serve immediately.
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