Bang Bang Shrimp

The crispy shrimp, perfectly fried and coated with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce, makes for a fun and irresistible appetizer. This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe brings together the crunch of golden shrimp with the perfect amount of heat, making it an unforgettable dish.

This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something bold and delicious. You can adjust the level of spiciness to suit your preference, making it a versatile treat for everyone. With a balance of crispy and creamy, these shrimp are sure to be a hit every time!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Vegetable oil for frying

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce

• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey

• Chopped green onions for garnish

• Sesame seeds for garnish

Directions:

1. In a bowl, add the buttermilk to the shrimp and let them soak for about 10 minutes.

2. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.

4. Dredge the shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess flour.

5. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.

7. Toss the crispy shrimp in the sauce until fully coated.

8. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Introduction to Bang Bang Shrimp: A Delicious Seafood Delight

Bang Bang Shrimp is a beloved dish in many households and restaurants, particularly for those who love a combination of crispy, spicy, and creamy flavors. This dish features shrimp that are lightly battered and fried until golden brown and then coated in a luscious sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a hint of honey for sweetness. The balance of flavors makes it an irresistible appetizer or main course, and it’s often served with a side of rice or salad for a complete meal.

The origin of Bang Bang Shrimp is attributed to Bonefish Grill, a well-known chain restaurant in the United States, where it became an instant hit. Since then, this dish has gained popularity among food lovers, home cooks, and chefs alike, thanks to its ease of preparation and ability to deliver bold, unforgettable flavors.

The Allure of Bang Bang Shrimp: Why You’ll Love It

Bang Bang Shrimp is a showstopper for several reasons. The first and most obvious reason is the texture. The shrimp are fried to perfection—crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. This contrast of textures is what makes every bite so satisfying. But the flavor profile takes this dish to the next level. The rich and creamy sauce, combined with the heat from the sriracha and the sweetness from the chili sauce and honey, creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exciting.

Beyond its taste, the versatility of Bang Bang Shrimp is another reason it stands out. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, this recipe can easily be adjusted to fit various preferences. Want it milder? You can reduce the sriracha. Love more heat? Simply add more chili sauce or even a dash of cayenne pepper.

Health Benefits of Bang Bang Shrimp

Despite its decadent appearance, Bang Bang Shrimp can be made relatively healthy. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in fat and calories, yet high in essential nutrients like iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are vital for maintaining a healthy metabolism, supporting thyroid function, and boosting your immune system.

In addition, shrimp are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation. By using whole shrimp (as opposed to shrimp processed into artificial forms like shrimp cocktail or breaded shrimp), you’re getting a more wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredient.

However, like most fried foods, this dish can be calorie-dense if not prepared mindfully. To make it lighter, consider using a healthier frying oil such as avocado or olive oil, or opt for baking or air frying the shrimp instead of deep frying them.

The Bang Bang Shrimp Sauce: The Secret Ingredient

What truly makes Bang Bang Shrimp special is its sauce. The combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha creates the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy. This sauce brings the shrimp to life, elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Mayonnaise is the base of the sauce, providing a rich and creamy texture. Sweet chili sauce adds the perfect amount of sweetness with a mild heat, making it a great complement to the crispy shrimp. The addition of sriracha adds a kick of spice, which is balanced by the subtle sweetness of honey. This sauce is easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for later use, making it a convenient option for preparing ahead of time.

If you’re looking for variations, you can also swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier, tangy version. For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice, cilantro, or a pinch of garlic powder.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making Bang Bang Shrimp at home is surprisingly simple, and with a few basic ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. The recipe itself only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

1. Preparing the Shrimp:
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. You’ll want to remove the shells, leaving the tail on for a more attractive presentation, though that’s optional. Rinse the shrimp thoroughly and then soak them in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and gives the batter something to cling to.

2. Making the Battering and Frying:
After soaking, coat the shrimp in a mixture of flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The flour creates a light, crispy coating when fried. Next, heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok, and fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will result in soggy shrimp.

3. Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the shrimp are frying, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir until smooth. This sauce is what ties the entire dish together, giving the shrimp a creamy, spicy coating.

4. Tossing the Shrimp in the Sauce:
Once the shrimp are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Then, toss the shrimp in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until fully coated. The sauce should stick to the shrimp, creating a luscious, creamy coating.

5. Garnishing and Serving:
Top the shrimp with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately while the shrimp are hot and crispy. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or even on its own as a delicious appetizer.

Serving Suggestions: Pairing with Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is an extremely versatile dish that can be paired with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas for perfect pairings:

• Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice or jasmine rice complements the flavors of the shrimp and helps balance out the heat from the sauce.

• Salad: Serve the shrimp alongside a refreshing green salad with avocado, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, make for a healthy and vibrant side.

• Noodles: For an Asian-inspired twist, serve the shrimp with a side of soba noodles or ramen.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Even Better: Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will always yield the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work, but be sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: The buttermilk helps to tenderize the shrimp and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

• Control the Spice: Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of sriracha sauce in the Bang Bang sauce. For a milder version, start with just a teaspoon of sriracha and add more as desired.

• Make it Light: To make a healthier version of Bang Bang Shrimp, consider baking the shrimp instead of frying them. You can also air fry them for a similar crispy texture with less oil.

Conclusion: Why Bang Bang Shrimp is a Must-Try Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that combines the best of crispy texture, bold flavors, and irresistible sauce. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or simply satisfying your cravings for something savory and spicy. The versatility of the dish, along with its straightforward preparation, makes it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts.

What’s more, Bang Bang Shrimp is easily customizable to fit various tastes, whether you want to adjust the spiciness or make it lighter for a healthier option. The combination of shrimp, batter, and sauce creates a balanced and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family, friends, or guests. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly see why this dish is a true crowd-pleaser!