Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together crispy, golden-brown shrimp with a homemade sweet and spicy sauce. Perfect for appetizers at parties or as a quick weeknight treat, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike. The unique combination of flavors makes it a standout option for any occasion, ensuring that everyone will be coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates an unforgettable flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main meal; it’s perfect for any setting.
• Crispy Texture: The cornstarch coating ensures each piece is perfectly crispy, making every bite satisfying.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress guests at parties and gatherings, leaving them craving more.

Tools and Preparation

To make Bang Bang Shrimp efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure your shrimp are perfectly fried and coated in sauce.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Heavy-bottom pot
• Mixing bowls
• Candy thermometer
• Slotted spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Heavy-bottom pot: This tool allows for even heat distribution while frying, preventing uneven cooking.
• Candy thermometer: Ensures the oil reaches the optimal frying temperature for crispy shrimp without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients and marinating shrimp effectively.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing fried shrimp from hot oil while letting excess oil drip off.

Ingredients

Bang Bang Shrimp is shrimp that is fried to a crispy, golden brown and coated with a homemade sweet and spicy bang bang sauce.

For the Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• ½ teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail removed)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornstarch
• Canola oil (for frying)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

In a second bowl, add the shrimp. Pour the buttermilk over the shrimp, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In a third small bowl, add cornstarch. This will be used to create the crispy exterior of your Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large, heavy-bottom pot, add about 1 inch of canola oil. Heat over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 375°F.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Working in batches, remove shrimp from buttermilk allowing excess to drip off. Coat each piece in cornstarch before placing it into the hot oil.

1. Fry for 1-2 minutes or until lightly golden brown on both sides.
2. Repeat with remaining shrimp; allow oil to reheat if necessary between batches.

Step 6: Sauce it Up!

While still hot, coat the fried shrimp with your prepared sauce. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly covered before serving immediately.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

As an Appetizer

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside extra Thai sweet chili sauce or a tangy soy sauce for dipping.
• On Lettuce Wraps: Place the shrimp in fresh lettuce leaves for a crunchy, refreshing bite.

In Tacos

• Shrimp Tacos: Use warm tortillas, add the shrimp, and top with slaw and avocado for a tasty twist.
• Spicy Shrimp Bowl: Serve over rice or quinoa with diced veggies and a drizzle of the bang bang sauce.

With Salads

• Bang Bang Shrimp Salad: Toss crispy shrimp on mixed greens with cucumbers, carrots, and your favorite dressing.
• Coleslaw Side: Pair with a creamy coleslaw to balance the heat of the shrimp.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Shrimp Po’ Boy: Stuff into a crusty roll with lettuce and tomatoes for a delicious sandwich option.
• Shrimp Sliders: Mini buns filled with bang bang shrimp make perfect party sliders.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

To achieve the ultimate Bang Bang Shrimp, follow these helpful tips for deliciously crispy results.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate in Buttermilk: Soaking in buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp and enhances their flavor.
• Heat Oil Properly: Make sure the oil reaches 375°F before frying to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Coat Generously: Ensure each shrimp is well-coated in cornstarch for maximum crunch.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve right after frying while still hot.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp

Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to enjoy alongside your Bang Bang Shrimp.

1. Coconut Rice: A mild and creamy rice that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.
2. Garlic Noodles: Flavorful noodles tossed in garlic butter add a savory touch to your meal.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies provide a healthy contrast to the richness of the shrimp.
4. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing balances the heat with freshness.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of tropical fruits offers sweetness that pairs well with spicy flavors.
6. Edamame Pods: Lightly salted edamame makes for an easy finger food side that’s healthy too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Bold mistake: Skipping the buttermilk soak. This step is crucial for tender shrimp and helps the cornstarch adhere better.
• Bold mistake: Overcrowding the frying pan. Fry shrimp in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
• Bold mistake: Not checking oil temperature. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 375°F for crispy results.
• Bold mistake: Ignoring the sauce balance. Adjust Sriracha and honey to suit your taste—don’t hesitate to make it sweeter or spicier!
• Bold mistake: Serving shrimp cold. Serve immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Place shrimp on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious dish featuring fried shrimp coated in a spicy and sweet homemade sauce, perfect as an appetizer or snack.

Can I use other seafood for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with scallops or even fish fillets for a different twist while keeping the same flavorful sauce.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Shrimp?

Feel free to adjust the spice level of the sauce by adding more or less Sriracha, or try incorporating garlic or lime juice for extra flavor!

What goes well with Bang Bang Shrimp?

Serve it alongside rice, salad, or veggies for a complete meal. It’s also great as part of a seafood platter or with fresh dipping sauces.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for gatherings or casual dinners. With options to customize your sauce and pairings, you can tailor this dish to suit any occasion. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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