Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

If you have been searching for that perfect mix of crispy, spicy, and sweet, then you’ll absolutely love this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe. It features succulent shrimp coated in a crunchy, seasoned breading and tossed in a creamy, tangy sauce that dances on your taste buds delightfully. Whether you’re planning a fun party appetizer or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish delivers bold flavors and irresistible textures that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a few simple yet impactful ingredients is what makes this recipe so accessible and delicious. Each one plays an essential role, from the creamy mayo that forms the luscious sauce to the crunchy panko breadcrumbs that give the shrimp their perfect golden crust.

• ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the sauce, balancing heat and sweetness perfectly.
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds a lively sweetness paired with gentle spice that defines the dish’s character.
• 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce: Delivers a punch of heat and garlic flavor to elevate the sauce.
• 1 egg (beaten): Acts as a sticky binder for the breading to adhere properly to the shrimp.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Keeps the shrimp tender and adds a subtle tang to the coating process.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the initial dry coating which gives structure to the breading.
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides that signature crispy crunch every bite promises.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the underlying flavors harmoniously.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and sharpness.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Offers a gentle savory depth.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings aromatic complexity to the breading.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smoky color and subtle earthiness.
• 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein, tender and ready to soak up that amazing coating.
• Vegetable oil: For frying, ensuring a perfectly golden finish.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by whisking together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and chili garlic sauce in a small bowl. This creamy, sweet-spicy sauce is the heart of the dish and sets the tone for those amazing bold flavors you’re about to enjoy. Once combined, set it aside to let those flavors marry while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Mix the Wet and Dry Coatings

In one medium bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk – this mixture keeps the shrimp juicy and helps the breading stick perfectly. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Each spice adds a unique flair that layers the flavors beautifully into the crispy crust.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, then into the egg and buttermilk blend, and finally back into the flour mixture. This double dredging creates a thick, crunchy coating that will fry up crispy on the outside while keeping the shrimp tender inside.

Step 4: Chill the Coated Shrimp

Place your breaded shrimp on a plate and pop them in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial because it helps the breading set and cling tightly to the shrimp when frying, preventing any flaking or sogginess.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Fill a deep-sided skillet with about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F. Carefully add your shrimp in batches, frying each for about 3 minutes total while turning them halfway through. The result? Beautifully crispy shrimp with an inviting golden color. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 6: Toss in the Bang Bang Sauce

Once all shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and toss with about ¼ cup of the Bang Bang sauce you made earlier, coating each shrimp evenly. Serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping extravaganza.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add layers of flavor, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro over the shrimp. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the entire dish and adds a refreshing zing that complements the sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a simple bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up any extra sauce or alongside crunchy, fresh slaw to balance richness with crisp freshness. Another favorite is serving it over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option that keeps the dish vibrant and exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

For some fun, serve the Bang Bang Shrimp as finger food in mini taco shells or crunchy wonton cups topped with avocado slices and a drizzle of extra sauce. You could also skewer the shrimp for a playful appetizer or pile them onto toasted buns for a bold and tasty Bang Bang Shrimp sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the sauce separate until serving to maintain the shrimp’s crispness, then toss together just before you dig in.

Freezing

While the fried shrimp are best fresh, you can freeze the uncooked coated shrimp on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. When ready, fry directly from frozen, adjusting cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through and stay crispy.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make the shrimp soggy. Instead, warm them up in a 350°F oven on a wire rack for about 5-7 minutes to help retain that crisp exterior. Once hot, toss with fresh sauce and enjoy the deliciousness all over again.

FAQs

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Absolutely! You can add more chili garlic sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat to your preferred level. Adjust slowly to keep that perfect balance of flavors.

What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Medium-sized, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal because they cook quickly and hold their shape well when fried. Larger shrimp can be used but may require a longer frying time.

Is it necessary to deep-fry the shrimp?

While deep frying produces the crispiest results, you can also bake the coated shrimp at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes for a healthier, less oily version. However, the texture will be different and less crunchy.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs, and make sure your other sauces and seasonings are gluten-free as well.

How long does it take to prepare the Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe?

The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor or fun.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that combines crispiness, creaminess, and a bold kick of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try and watch those shrimp disappear faster than you can say “Bang Bang”!

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