The first crisp bite of Bang Bang Shrimp transports me back to evenings spent at cozy restaurants, where laughter fills the air and the tantalizing aroma of fried foods dances around me. Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly coated in a light, crispy layer and drizzled with a creamy sweet chili mayo that packs just the right amount of heat. It’s a delightful combination that has become a favorite not just for its indulgent flavor, but also for its quick preparation—ready in under 30 minutes!
Whether you’re serving it as a star appetizer at your next gathering or packing it as a delightful main course for a busy weeknight, this recipe offers the perfect balance of ease and wow factor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible dish that challenges any fast-food dilemma with a homemade touch. Join me as we dive into creating this crispy sensation that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp so addictive?
Crispy texture: The unique cornstarch coating creates an ultra-crunchy experience that you won’t find in takeout versions.
Quick preparation: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this impressive dish anytime!
Flavor explosion: The sweet chili mayo contrasts beautifully with the shrimp’s savory notes, making every bite unforgettable.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a standalone dish, over rice, or in tacos for a fun twist!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish will have your friends and family coming back for seconds!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
Get ready to gather everything you need for a crispy, homemade Bang Bang Shrimp experience!
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Aim for U31-40 size for the best bite-sized morsels.
• Buttermilk – This tenderizes the shrimp, ensuring they’re deliciously juicy.
• Salt – A little salt goes a long way in enhancing the shrimp’s natural flavor.
• Garlic Powder – It adds a savory depth that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Onion Powder – Brings a hint of sweetness and aromatic goodness.
• Black Pepper – Just a dash adds that perfect touch of heat.
• Cornstarch – Preferred over flour, it creates that ultra-crispy coating you crave.
For the Sauce
• High-Quality Mayonnaise – Acts as a creamy base; consider using Kewpie for the best flavor.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – This is the magic ingredient that provides a delightful sweetness.
• Sriracha Hot Sauce – Adjust to your spice preference for that extra flavor kick.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp that promises to be both crispy and delicious!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
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Marinate Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the large shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let this mixture marinate for about 10 minutes to infuse all those delicious flavors.
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Prepare Coating: Grab a shallow dish and pour in the cornstarch. Dredge each marinated shrimp in the cornstarch, making sure to shake off any excess for a perfect coating.
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Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat 1 ½ inches of oil to a sizzling 350°F. Use a thermometer to ensure it’s hot enough for that crispiness we all love!
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Fry Shrimp: Carefully fry the shrimp in small batches for approximately 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
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Make Sauce: In a large bowl, mix together the high-quality mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Toss the fried shrimp in this luscious sauce until they’re evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and discover new flavors that will elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp!
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Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces for a different protein delight. They’ll soak up the same delicious flavors beautifully!
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Spicy Twist: Increase the Sriracha in the sauce to kick up the heat level. Perfect for spice lovers looking for a real zing!
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Zesty Mayo: Add lime juice or zest to the sauce for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens up the creamy goodness. It adds a delightful zing!
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Baked Version: Instead of frying, pop the coated shrimp in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a lighter, crispy option, minus the oil!
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Gluten-Free: Swap cornstarch with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to maintain the crispy texture while being kind to dietary needs.
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Add Greens: Toss in some chopped green onions or fresh cilantro into the sauce for an extra layer of freshness and color that enhances the dish beautifully!
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Pineapple Flavor: Mix in crushed pineapple into the mayo for a sweet and tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the crispy shrimp.
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Coconut Coating: Try using shredded coconut alongside cornstarch for the coating to introduce a tropical crunch that’s simply irresistible!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
• Fry in Batches: Frying shrimp in small batches keeps the oil temperature consistent, ensuring each piece comes out crispy and perfect.
• Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to confirm the oil is at 350°F. Too cold oil can lead to soggy shrimp, while too hot oil can burn them.
• Quick Serving: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after coating for the best texture. Letting them sit can soften the crispy crust.
• Perfect Coating: Shake off excess cornstarch before frying to avoid clumps and achieve an even, crispy coating that enhances the enjoyment of your Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the heat by adjusting the amount of Sriracha in the sauce according to your taste preference.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best taste, enjoy them fresh.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze fried shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen for ideal texture.
Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, reheat the shrimp in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to recapture that crispy coating. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Coating: If adding sauce to the shrimp before storing, note that the crispy coating may soften, so it’s best to add the sauce just before serving.
Make Ahead Options
Bang Bang Shrimp is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor restaurant-quality flavors without the last-minute rush! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance; simply place them in the refrigerator to enhance their tenderness. If you want to prep even more, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp, just dredge the marinated shrimp in cornstarch and fry them just before serving for that perfectly crispy coating. This makes the cooking process quick and stress-free, ensuring every bite remains just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing delightful sides that complement the crispy, savory flavors of this dish.
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Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creaminess of coconut rice balance the heat of the shrimp, making every mouthful a tropical delight.
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Asian Slaw: Crisp vegetables in a tangy dressing add a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm, crispy shrimp. This dish brings not only color but also nutrition to your meal.
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Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles coated in butter and herbs make for a comforting side that harmonizes perfectly with the zesty shrimp.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a fresh and nutritious touch, with its mild flavor allowing the Bang Bang Shrimp to shine.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture mirror the shrimp, offering a satisfying crunch that’s fun to eat!
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Pineapple Salsa: A fruity, zesty salsa rounds out the meal, adding a burst of sweetness and zing that enhances the overall flavor palette.
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Mango Lassi: A creamy, tangy drink that cools the palate, the mango lassi is a wonderful companion, perfect for balancing the shrimp’s spice.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse allows for a sweet finish, contrasting the savory notes of your Bang Bang Shrimp with a touch of decadence.
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What size shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
I recommend using U31-40 size shrimp for the best bite-sized pieces. These shrimp are large enough to provide a satisfying crunch while also being perfect for tossing in that delicious sweet chili mayo sauce.
How do I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their crispy texture.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze fried Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat directly from frozen in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore that crunchy coating.
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What can I do if my coating isn’t crispy?
If you find that your coating isn’t coming out crispy, ensure that your oil temperature is at 350°F before frying—this is crucial for achieving that crunch. Also, shake off any excess cornstarch before frying to prevent clumping. If you’ve added sauce too soon after frying, let the shrimp sit briefly to cool down before tossing them, as this can help retain some crispiness.
Is there a way to make Bang Bang Shrimp healthier?
Very! You can lighten up your Bang Bang Shrimp by reducing the amount of mayonnaise in the sauce or using a lighter version, and you can also adjust the sugar levels in the sweet chili sauce. For a healthier frying option, consider using an air fryer to achieve a lovely crunch without submerging the shrimp in oil.
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just fry the shrimp just before serving for optimal crispiness. If you want to prep everything ahead, marinate the shrimp and dredge them in cornstarch, then fry them right before your gathering for that perfect, fresh dish.
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the large shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let this mixture marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Grab a shallow dish and pour in the cornstarch. Dredge each marinated shrimp in the cornstarch, making sure to shake off any excess.
- In a large pot, heat 1 ½ inches of oil to a sizzling 350°F.
- Carefully fry the shrimp in small batches for approximately 2 minutes until they're golden brown. Drain them on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated.
