Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp has become a household name, and for good reason! In my kitchen, it’s a recipe that consistently disappears in minutes. The first time I made it, I was a bit skeptical – could something so simple really deliver that restaurant-quality flavor? The answer, unequivocally, is yes! From the crispy, perfectly cooked shrimp to the creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, every bite is an explosion of textures and tastes. My family, who can be a tough crowd when it comes to trying new things, devoured it. “More bang bang shrimp!” became the enthusiastic cry echoing around the dinner table, and it’s been a regular request ever since. Whether served as a quick appetizer or a satisfying main course, this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will elevate any meal.

Ingredients

To create the magic of Bang Bang Shrimp, you’ll need a collection of ingredients that work together in perfect harmony to deliver that signature crispy, flavorful experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need, ensuring you have all the components for success:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show! Large shrimp are ideal as they hold up well to frying and provide a satisfying bite. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for ease of cooking and eating. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed completely). Patting them dry is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch: This is the secret ingredient for that incredibly crispy coating. Cornstarch creates a light, airy, and crunchy crust when fried. Don’t substitute with flour, as it won’t yield the same texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Seasoning the shrimp directly is essential for flavor. Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and balances the flavors in the batter and sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the shrimp, complementing the salt and other seasonings.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: The egg acts as a binder, helping the cornstarch adhere to the shrimp. It also contributes to a slightly richer texture in the coating.
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice/vinegar): Buttermilk adds tenderness to the shrimp and creates a slightly tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly.
• Vegetable oil, for frying: You’ll need a neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all excellent choices. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the shrimp for even cooking.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce. Use a good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor. Full-fat mayonnaise provides the richest taste and texture.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: This is a key ingredient that provides the signature sweet and slightly spicy flavor of Bang Bang sauce. Look for it in the Asian foods section of your grocery store. Different brands vary in sweetness and spice levels, so adjust to your preference.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (or to taste): Sriracha adds the heat and a touch of tang to the sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. For a milder sauce, start with 1 tablespoon and taste before adding more.
• 1 tablespoon honey (or agave nectar): Honey adds sweetness and a subtle floral note to the sauce. Agave nectar is a good substitute for a vegan option or if you prefer a more neutral sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Rice vinegar provides a crucial tanginess and acidity that balances the sweetness and richness of the other sauce ingredients. It also adds a subtle Asian flavor note.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth of flavor to the sauce. It’s important to use powder and not fresh garlic, as fresh garlic can be too pungent in the sauce and doesn’t blend as smoothly.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a hint of color to the sauce. You can use regular paprika or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions: For a fresh, vibrant garnish and a mild oniony flavor.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a pleasing visual element.
• Red pepper flakes: For an extra kick of heat, if desired.
• Lime wedges: To serve alongside for a squeeze of fresh citrus that brightens the dish.

Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking will make the process smoother and more efficient. This detailed list ensures you won’t be missing anything and can create authentic and delicious Bang Bang Shrimp at home.

Instructions

Creating perfect Bang Bang Shrimp is all about technique and timing. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve crispy shrimp and a luscious, flavorful sauce that will rival your favorite restaurant version.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry: This is a crucial step for achieving crispy shrimp. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry. Excess moisture will prevent the cornstarch from adhering properly and result in soggy shrimp.
2. Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the dried shrimp with salt and black pepper. Toss to ensure the shrimp are evenly seasoned. This simple seasoning lays the foundation for the overall flavor.
3. Prepare the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, lightly beaten egg, and buttermilk (or milk mixture). Whisk until smooth and no lumps remain. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
4. Coat the shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the cornstarch batter and toss to coat each shrimp evenly. Ensure every shrimp is fully covered in the batter for maximum crispiness. Let the shrimp sit in the batter for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the batter to adhere to the shrimp and helps create a better crust.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. Combine sauce ingredients: While the shrimp are marinating, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (or agave), rice vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Whisk until smooth: Whisk all the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the sriracha or honey to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey. For a spicier sauce, add more sriracha.
3. Set aside: Once the sauce is prepared, set it aside at room temperature until the shrimp are cooked. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot until it is about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny bit of batter into it – if it sizzles immediately and browns in about 15-20 seconds, the oil is ready.
2. Fry in batches: Carefully add the battered shrimp to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp. Fry in 2-3 batches depending on the size of your pot.
3. Fry until golden and crispy: Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per batch, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides. The shrimp should be cooked through and opaque.
4. Drain excess oil: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon or spider strainer and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps maintain their crispiness.

Step 4: Toss with Sauce and Serve

1. Combine shrimp and sauce: In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy fried shrimp with the prepared Bang Bang sauce. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated in the luscious sauce.
2. Garnish (optional): If desired, garnish the Bang Bang Shrimp with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes. These garnishes add visual appeal and extra layers of flavor and texture.
3. Serve immediately: Bang Bang Shrimp is best served immediately while the shrimp are still crispy and warm. Serve as an appetizer or a main course with your favorite sides. Lime wedges can be served alongside for those who like a squeeze of citrus.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in batches is essential for maintaining oil temperature and ensuring crispy shrimp.
• Maintain oil temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will brown too quickly on the outside and remain undercooked inside. If it’s too cold, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Work quickly: Once the shrimp are fried, toss them with the sauce and serve immediately to enjoy them at their crispiest.

Following these detailed instructions will guide you to create restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp right in your own kitchen. The combination of crispy shrimp and the creamy, spicy-sweet sauce is truly irresistible.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your Bang Bang Shrimp can be helpful, especially if you are mindful of your dietary intake. Please note that these are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 4-5 shrimp with sauce

Servings Per Recipe: 4-6 servings

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (Estimated):

• Calories: 350-450 kcal
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 25-35g
  • Saturated Fat: 4-6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20-25g
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg
• Sodium: 500-700mg
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugar: 10-15g

Key Nutritional Considerations:

• Calories: Bang Bang Shrimp is moderately high in calories due to the frying process and the creamy sauce. Portion control is important if you are watching your calorie intake.
• Protein: Shrimp is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Fat: The fat content is relatively high, primarily due to the mayonnaise in the sauce and the frying oil. However, a significant portion of the fat is unsaturated, which is considered healthier than saturated fat.
• Sodium: The sodium content can be moderate to high, depending on the sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise used. If you are watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, or making your own sauce with reduced sodium ingredients.
• Sugar: The sauce contains sugar from the sweet chili sauce and honey. If you are mindful of your sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar-free sweetener substitute.

Important Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used, as well as cooking methods. Frying oil absorption can also affect the final calorie and fat content. For more accurate nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific ingredients and quantities you use. If you are following a specific diet or have dietary concerns, it’s always best to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian for personalized advice.

Preparation Time

Bang Bang Shrimp is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a great option for both weeknight meals and weekend gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time involved:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • This includes peeling and deveining shrimp, measuring out ingredients, preparing the batter, and making the sauce.
• Marinating Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Allowing the shrimp to sit in the batter for a short period enhances the crispiness.
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Frying the shrimp in batches takes approximately 2-3 minutes per batch, depending on the size of your pot and the number of batches.
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes

Time-Saving Tips:

• Buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp: This can save you significant prep time, especially if you are short on time.
• Make the sauce ahead of time: The Bang Bang sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows you to just focus on preparing and frying the shrimp when you are ready to cook.
• Organize your ingredients: Having all your ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking (mise en place) will streamline the process and make cooking faster and more efficient.

Bang Bang Shrimp is a relatively quick dish to make, especially considering the delicious and impressive results. With efficient preparation, you can have this flavorful dish ready to enjoy in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for a satisfying and speedy meal.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making it perfect for appetizers, main courses, or even as a flavorful addition to other dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

As an Appetizer:

• Classic Appetizer: Serve Bang Bang Shrimp on a platter, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Provide toothpicks or small forks for easy grabbing.
• Lettuce Wraps: Spoon Bang Bang Shrimp into crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine lettuce leaves). This offers a refreshing and lighter appetizer option. Add shredded carrots, cucumbers, or cilantro for extra freshness.
• Skewers: Thread Bang Bang Shrimp onto skewers for an elegant and easy-to-eat appetizer. Grill the skewers briefly after frying for a smoky flavor (optional).
• Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos/Sliders: Fill mini taco shells or slider buns with Bang Bang Shrimp, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of extra sauce.

As a Main Course:

• With Rice: Serve Bang Bang Shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
• With Noodles: Pair Bang Bang Shrimp with Asian-style noodles like lo mein, chow mein, or rice noodles. Toss the noodles with a light soy sauce-based dressing or sesame oil for added flavor.
• With Salad: Create a vibrant and balanced meal by serving Bang Bang Shrimp alongside a fresh and crisp salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or an Asian-inspired slaw works wonderfully.
• Bang Bang Shrimp Bowls: Build customizable bowls with a base of rice or quinoa, topped with Bang Bang Shrimp, steamed vegetables (like broccoli, edamame, or snap peas), avocado, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Side Dish Pairings:

• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or bok choy complement the richness of the Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Salads: Asian slaw, cucumber salad, or a simple mixed green salad.
• Starches: Rice, quinoa, noodles, or even mashed sweet potatoes.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Garnishing Ideas for Presentation:

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped green onions, cilantro, or parsley add freshness and visual appeal.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a decorative touch.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For a pop of color and an extra hint of spice.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a squeeze of fresh citrus to brighten the flavors.
• Edible Flowers: For an elegant touch, especially when serving as an appetizer at a party.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Bang Bang Shrimp is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress. Get creative with your presentation and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy-sweet sauce.

Additional Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

Elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp from good to exceptional with these five essential tips that will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time.

1. Ensure Shrimp is Completely Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Before battering the shrimp, thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for the cornstarch batter to adhere properly and create that signature crunchy coating. Excess water will steam the shrimp instead of allowing them to fry to a golden crisp. You can even let the patted-dry shrimp sit uncovered in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to further remove surface moisture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Frying Pot: Frying in batches is non-negotiable for crispy shrimp. Overcrowding the pot lowers the oil temperature, which leads to uneven cooking and soggy, oily shrimp. Fry the shrimp in smaller batches, ensuring there is enough space between each shrimp for the hot oil to circulate and cook them evenly. This will also help maintain the oil temperature at the optimal range of 350-375°F (175-190°C).
3. Maintain the Correct Oil Temperature: Using a deep-fry thermometer is highly recommended to monitor the oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will cook too quickly on the outside and may be undercooked inside. If the oil is too cold, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Maintain a consistent temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C) throughout the frying process. Adjust the heat as needed to keep the temperature within this range.
4. Adjust the Sauce to Your Preference: The beauty of Bang Bang Sauce is its customizable nature. Taste the sauce after you’ve mixed all the ingredients and adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or sweet chili sauce. For a spicier kick, add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with other flavors by adding a dash of lime juice for extra tang or a teaspoon of sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
5. Serve Immediately for Maximum Crispiness: Bang Bang Shrimp is best enjoyed immediately after frying and tossing with the sauce. The longer the shrimp sit in the sauce, the softer the crispy coating will become. Prepare all your sides and garnishes while the shrimp are frying so you can toss them with the sauce and serve them right away while they are at their peak crispiness and warmth. If you must prepare them slightly ahead of time, consider tossing the shrimp with only a portion of the sauce and adding more just before serving to help maintain some crispiness.

By following these additional tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of Bang Bang Shrimp and creating a dish that is not only delicious but also perfectly textured and flavorful every time. These small details make a big difference in achieving truly restaurant-quality results at home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Bang Bang Shrimp

Here are five frequently asked questions about Bang Bang Shrimp, along with detailed answers to help you understand the recipe better and troubleshoot any issues you might encounter.

Q1: Can I bake or air fry the shrimp instead of frying?

A: Yes, you can bake or air fry Bang Bang Shrimp as a healthier alternative to deep frying, although the texture will be slightly different.

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the battered shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spray the shrimp lightly with cooking oil spray. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The baked shrimp will be less crispy than fried shrimp, but still delicious.
• Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the battered shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to do this in batches). Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Air frying will yield a crispier result than baking, closer to the texture of fried shrimp, while using significantly less oil.

While baking and air frying are healthier options, deep frying is the traditional method for achieving the most authentic crispy texture of Bang Bang Shrimp.

Q2: Can I make Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time? How long does it last?

A: Absolutely! Bang Bang Sauce is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, making it in advance can even enhance the flavors as they meld together.

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the sauce as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Storage: Bang Bang Sauce will last for up to a week in the refrigerator. Ensure it is stored properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.
• Flavor Enhancement: Some people even find that the sauce tastes better after a day or two in the refrigerator, as the flavors have more time to develop and deepen.

Having the sauce ready in advance makes the whole process of making Bang Bang Shrimp much quicker when you are ready to cook.

Q3: Can I use different types of shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use different sizes and types of shrimp, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

• Size: Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal for Bang Bang Shrimp as they provide a good bite and hold up well to frying. However, you can use medium or even smaller shrimp. Smaller shrimp will cook faster, so reduce the frying time to avoid overcooking.
• Types: Peeled and deveined shrimp are recommended for convenience. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed completely). If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before battering. You can also use shrimp with tails on or off, depending on your preference and presentation style.

No matter the size or type, always ensure the shrimp are cooked through until opaque and pink.

Q4: My Bang Bang Shrimp isn’t crispy. What did I do wrong?

A: Several factors can contribute to Bang Bang Shrimp not being crispy. Here are the most common reasons and how to fix them:

• Moisture: Not patting the shrimp dry enough is a major culprit. Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before battering.
• Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to coat the shrimp but not too thick. If it’s too thick, it can become soggy. If it’s too thin, it won’t create a good crust. Follow the recipe for batter consistency.
• Oil Temperature: If the oil is not hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C).
• Overcrowding: Overcrowding the pot lowers oil temperature, leading to soggy shrimp. Fry in batches.
• Not Serving Immediately: Bang Bang Shrimp is best served immediately. The longer it sits in the sauce, the softer it will become.

Review these points to troubleshoot and ensure your next batch is perfectly crispy.

Q5: Can I make a spicier or milder Bang Bang Sauce?

A: Absolutely! Adjusting the spice level of Bang Bang Sauce is easy and customizable to your preference.

• Spicier Sauce: To make a spicier sauce, increase the amount of sriracha. Start by adding a little more at a time and taste until you reach your desired spice level. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat. Finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper can also be added for fresh heat.
• Milder Sauce: For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether for a very mild version. You can also add a bit more mayonnaise or honey to further dilute the spice.

Experiment with the sauce to find the perfect balance of sweetness and spice that suits your taste. Bang Bang Sauce is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust it to your liking.

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