"Oh, the aroma of frying shrimp wafting through the house! It's like taking a mini vacation to a bustling night market where tantalizing flavors come together. My Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet and Spicy Sauce captures that vibrant spirit effortlessly, bringing the favorites from the restaurant straight to your kitchen table. This recipe is not only a delightful crowd-pleaser but also quick to whip up, making it perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy night in. With its irresistible crunch from the panko coating and the harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes, this dish turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience. Are you ready to dive into this flavor-packed adventure and impress your loved ones?"
Why Is Bang Bang Shrimp So Irresistible?
Crispy perfection: The golden panko crust gives a satisfying crunch that contrasts delightfully with tender shrimp.
Flavor explosion: A sweet and spicy sauce elevates every bite, making it a standout dish that leaves friends asking for more.
Versatile option: Try it as an appetizer or a main course, or even swap shrimp for chicken for a delicious Bang Bang Chicken twist!
Quick prep time: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those bustling weeknights or surprise gatherings.
Crowd favorite: Impress your guests with this restaurant-quality dish right at home, alongside a side of Bay Garlic Shrimp or a simple jasmine rice.
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
Revamp your evenings with these key ingredients for a flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp experience!
- Shrimp – 1 pound raw (41–50 size) shrimp; a must-have for a protein-packed dish.
- Buttermilk – 1 ½ cups; tenderizes the shrimp, soaking them in flavor.
- Sriracha Sauce – 1 ½ teaspoons, divided; offers adjustable heat to match your spice preference.
- Corn Starch – 1 cup; essential for achieving that irresistible crunchy coating.
- Panko Bread Crumbs – ½ cup; adds a delightful crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used if needed.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon; enhances the dish with color and a hint of smokiness.
- Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon; boosts the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon; lends a deeper, robust flavor.
- Mayonnaise – ⅓ cup; forms the creamy base for your delicious sauce; Greek yogurt can lighten it up.
- Rice Vinegar – 1 ½ teaspoons; balances the sauce with a touch of acidity.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – 2 tablespoons; infuses sweetness along with a hint of heat.
- Garlic Chili Sauce – 1 ½ tablespoons; brings extra flavor and spicy notes.
- Agave Nectar – 1 tablespoon; sweetens your sauce nicely; substitute with sugar if desired.
- Oil for Frying – Ensure you have enough to deep fry, heated to 350°F for optimal crunch.
- Iceberg Lettuce – Half head, shredded; creates a refreshing base for serving your shrimp.
- Scallions – 4, sliced; adds freshness and attractive garnish color.
The delicious Bang Bang Shrimp is just a few ingredients away—let's get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
Begin by peeling, deveining, and removing the tails from 1 pound of shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This ensures each shrimp is clean and ready to soak up the delicious flavors of the marinade.
Step 2: Marinate Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of Sriracha sauce. Add the shrimp to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour. This step tenderizes the shrimp and infuses them with flavor.
Step 3: Prepare Coating
In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of corn starch, ½ cup of panko bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. This dry mix will create a crispy coating that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. Set the bowl aside while the shrimp marinate.
Step 4: Make Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine ⅓ cup of mayonnaise, 1 ½ teaspoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 ½ tablespoons of garlic chili sauce, ½ teaspoon of Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon of agave nectar. Whisk until smooth and well blended; this sweet and spicy sauce will be draped over the finished Bang Bang Shrimp.
Step 5: Heat Oil
In a large pan or deep fryer, heat several inches of oil to 350°F (180°C). Use a candy thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature, which is crucial for achieving a golden crispy exterior on your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Step 6: Coat Shrimp
Once the shrimp has finished marinating, drain them, discarding the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each shrimp in the corn starch mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. The dry mixture should adhere well, creating a nice crunch when fried.
Step 7: Fry Shrimp
Carefully place half of the coated shrimp into the hot oil, frying them for about 2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining shrimp.
Step 8: Sauce Shrimp
In a large bowl, toss the fried shrimp with half of the prepared sauce until they are evenly coated. Reserve the other half of the sauce for drizzling later. This will enhance the flavors of your crispy Bang Bang Shrimp while keeping every bite deliciously moist.
Step 9: Serve
Shred half a head of iceberg lettuce and arrange it in a serving bowl. Top with the sauced Bang Bang Shrimp for a vibrant presentation. Finish by sprinkling sliced scallions on top for an appealing and fresh garnish. Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp immediately while they’re still warm and crispy!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bang Bang Shrimp ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and Sriracha for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay tender and flavorful. Additionally, you can mix the dry coating ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just before you're ready to serve, coat the marinated shrimp, fry them until crispy, and toss with the sauce you prepared earlier. This ensures that your Bang Bang Shrimp remains just as delicious while streamlining your cooking process—perfect for those who love homemade food without the rush!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days; this helps maintain its flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag; they can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To regain the crispy texture, reheat in an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, checking until they're heated through.
Wrapping: If you have sauce left, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep the shrimp coating crisp.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides and accompaniments that complete this irresistible dish!
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Jasmine Rice: A fragrant side that soaks up the sweet and spicy sauce, adding an aromatic touch to each bite.
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Garlic Butter Noodles: Soft noodles coated in buttery garlic flavor balance the crispy shrimp effortlessly, creating a delightful texture contrast.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Their crunchy exterior and fresh vegetable fillings perfectly complement the Bang Bang Shrimp, enhancing the meal’s appeal.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch with sweet and tangy notes, it adds brightness to the rich flavors of the shrimp and enhances the overall meal.
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Grilled Pineapple: The sweet char can cut through the spice, providing a fruity brightness that balances the dish beautifully.
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Thai Green Papaya Salad: Fresh and zesty, its crunch and vibrant flavors elevate the meal's profile while providing a herbaceous contrast.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this traditional Thai treat brings a sweet finale, harmonizing with the meal's sweet and spicy notes for a perfect ending.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with these ideas to make this recipe your own!
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Bang Bang Chicken: Replace shrimp with boneless, skinless chicken breast for a hearty chicken version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauce, making it a family favorite.
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Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that still tenderizes and flavors the protein.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko to create a crunchy coating that everyone can enjoy. It’s a small switch that ensures no one misses out on the fun!
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Extra Veggies: Add shredded carrots or purple cabbage to the lettuce bed for an extra crunch and vibrant color. These additions not only look great but also boost the nutrition of your dish.
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Heat Boost: If you love heat, experiment with different hot sauces, like chipotle or habanero, for a smoky or fiery kick. Every bite becomes an adventure as you adjust the flavors to your liking!
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice over the finished shrimp for a pop of brightness. The citrus balance wonderfully complements the sweet sauce and adds freshness.
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Asian Twist: Stir in some sesame oil to your sauce for a nutty, aromatic flavor that transports your Bang Bang Shrimp to an Asian-inspired delight.
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Sweetness Shift: Substitute agave nectar with honey or maple syrup to experiment with different sweet profiles that still work beautifully with the overall sauce.
No matter how you choose to modify this dish, it’s perfect paired with sides like a simple jasmine rice or try it slathered in a zesty sauce that you can check out in our Bay Garlic Shrimp recipe! Embrace the fun and enjoy the cooking journey you embark upon.
Expert Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp
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Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying. This is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy coating without sogginess.
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Coating Consistency: Make sure each shrimp is thoroughly coated in the corn starch mixture. This step is vital for maximum crunch and prevents the coating from falling off during frying.
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Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to tweak the amount of Sriracha and garlic chili sauce in the recipe. This allows you to customize the heat according to your family’s preferences.
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Serve Immediately: Bang Bang Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh from the fryer. Serve right away to maintain the crispy texture and delicious flavors that everyone loves!
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Keep Warm: If frying in batches, keep the cooked shrimp warm in a low oven to ensure they stay crispy while you finish the remaining shrimp. Don't let them sit at room temperature!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for raw shrimp that are translucent, firm, and have a mild oceanic smell. Avoid any shrimp with dark spots or an ammonia-like odor, as those are signs of spoilage. If possible, opt for shrimp that are "wild caught" for better flavor and sustainability.
How can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To help maintain their flavor and texture, allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing the container. When it's time to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in the oven to bring back that crispy goodness!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Of course! To freeze your Bang Bang Shrimp, first allow them to cool completely. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container and label it with the date. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, just bake them from frozen at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What if my shrimp coating falls off while frying?
Very! If you find your coating slipping off during frying, it might be because the shrimp weren't coated well enough or the oil temperature was too low. Ensure each shrimp is thoroughly dredged in the corn starch mixture before frying, and make sure your oil is at 350°F. If you're frying in batches, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can drop the oil temperature and lead to soggy coatings.
Is this dish suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
While Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful treat for seafood lovers, it's not safe for those with shellfish allergies. However, you can still enjoy a similar dish by substituting shrimp with boneless, skinless chicken breast for a Bang Bang Chicken variation! This way, you can savor all the delicious flavors without the allergy concerns.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The spiciness can definitely be adjusted! If you're concerned about the heat, start with less Sriracha and garlic chili sauce. The sauce's flavor profile combines sweet and spicy, so feel free to taste and adjust until you find the perfect balance for your palate!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe for Ultimate Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel, devein, and remove the tails from 1 pound of shrimp. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1.5 cups of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of Sriracha sauce. Add shrimp and marinate for 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of corn starch, 0.5 cup of panko bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 0.5 teaspoon of onion powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- In a separate bowl, combine 0.33 cup of mayonnaise, 1.5 teaspoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of Thai sweet chili sauce, 1.5 tablespoons of garlic chili sauce, 0.5 teaspoon of Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon of agave nectar. Whisk until smooth.
- Heat several inches of oil to 350°F in a large pan or deep fryer.
- Drain the shrimp from the marinade, dredge in the corn starch mixture until well-coated.
- Fry half of the coated shrimp in hot oil for about 2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and repeat with remaining shrimp.
- Toss the fried shrimp with half of the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Reserve the other half for drizzling later.
- Shred half a head of iceberg lettuce and arrange it in a serving bowl. Top with sauced Bang Bang Shrimp and garnish with sliced scallions.
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