There’s something undeniably delightful about the sound of shrimp sizzling in a hot skillet, especially when you’re in the mood for a meal that combines ease and flavor. I discovered this Keto Bang Bang Shrimp recipe during a quest to satisfy my cravings for restaurant-style appetizers without sacrificing my low-carb lifestyle.
Imagine biting into tender shrimp coated in a crispy, golden crust, paired with a creamy, spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just another shrimp recipe; it’s a quick and flavorful treat that elevates weekday dinners or impresses at gatherings. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a plateful of this crowd-pleaser, echoing the beloved flavors from my favorite seafood spot—without the guilt.
Get ready to tantalize your senses and experience a low-carb twist on a classic that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this irresistible bang bang shrimp journey!
Why is Keto Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Experience a delightful fusion of spicy and creamy with every bite that tantalizes your palate.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or last-minute gatherings!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy the irresistible taste of restaurant-style shrimp without the carbs, making it a great choice for Keto diets.
Serve It Up: Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Unique Twist: This recipe blends essential Asian flavors, offering a culinary journey right in your own kitchen.
Elevate your dining experience with this Keto Bang Bang Shrimp that everyone will adore!
Keto Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Raw Shrimp – The main protein source, giving you a lean and low-carb base for this dish.
• Keto-friendly Oil – Essential for frying, offering a healthy boost; try avocado or olive oil for the best flavor.
For the Breading
• Almond Flour – Provides a gluten-free coating that gives the shrimp its delightful crunch.
• Oat Fiber – Boosts fiber without adding carbs; can be replaced with more almond flour if needed.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base that helps balance the spice of the sauce.
• Sriracha – Adds the heat; adjust the amount to tailor the spiciness to your taste buds.
• Sambal – Enhances the complexity of flavor, bringing an authentic kick.
• Sweetener – Balances the spiciness of the sauce for that classic Bang Bang flavor; opt for your favorite low-carb sweetener.
This irresistible Keto Bang Bang Shrimp will quickly become a beloved staple for your family and friends!
How to Make Keto Bang Bang Shrimp
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, sambal, and your chosen sweetener until smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level as desired!
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Mix the Breading: In another bowl, combine almond flour and oat fiber. Whisk well until evenly mixed, ensuring a light and airy texture.
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Coat the Shrimp: Take your raw shrimp and lightly coat them in the almond flour mixture, shaking off any excess for even coverage.
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Heat the Oil: In a skillet over medium heat, warm your keto-friendly oil until shimmering. This should only take a few minutes to reach the right temperature.
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Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the coated shrimp to the skillet. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and let them drain on paper towels.
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Serve: Drizzle your delightful Bang Bang Sauce over the warm shrimp and serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Keto Bang Bang Shrimp?
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this scrumptious dish with complementary sides that elevate both flavor and enjoyment.
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Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice: This fresh, zesty option provides a light and fluffy companion that complements the shrimp’s crunch and spice beautifully.
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Garlic Butter Asparagus: Bright and tender, this dish balances the richness of the Bang Bang sauce with a more subtle savory note, making every bite memorable.
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Zucchini Noodles: Light and versatile, zucchini noodles serve as a perfect low-carb alternative, allowing the shrimp to take center stage with each twirl.
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Spicy Asian Slaw: A refreshing crunch from cabbage and carrots, this slaw offers a delightful contrast to the creamy shrimp, adding vibrant color and taste.
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Keto-friendly Breadsticks: Deliciously cheesy and satisfying, these breadsticks pair wonderfully, perfect for mopping up any leftover Bang Bang sauce.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink option that enhances the meal without adding calories, balancing richness with a hint of citrus sparkle.
Enjoy these pairings to awaken your taste buds and make your meal even more unforgettable!
Keto Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Dive into a world of personalization and make this delightful recipe truly your own!
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Protein Swap: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a new take on this dish. Both options create a hearty yet fulfilling meal.
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Breadcrumb Alternative: Swap almond flour for crushed pork rinds for an extra crunchy and flavorful coating. Just remember, the texture will change slightly, giving a delightful crunch!
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Seasoned Twist: Add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the breading mix for a flavor boost. A pinch of both can transform the dish into something truly memorable.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the Bang Bang Sauce for a fresh burst of flavor. Both herbs bring a unique and vibrant twist that elevates this dish even further.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the sriracha in the sauce or add sliced jalapeños for extra heat. This adds a tantalizing level of spice that warmth-seeking taste buds will adore!
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Vegetable Addition: Toss in some lightly battered broccoli or asparagus alongside the shrimp while frying for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances texture but makes it a colorful, nourishing dish.
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Creamy Variation: For a creamy twist, incorporate cream cheese into the Bang Bang Sauce. This luscious addition will make the sauce even creamier and richer.
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Serving Style: Make it a fun family meal by serving in lettuce wraps instead of as a classic dish. Wraps provide a low-carb alternative while adding crunch and freshness!
Expert Tips for Keto Bang Bang Shrimp
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Pat It Dry: Make sure your shrimp are patted dry before coating to ensure the breading adheres perfectly.
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Oil Temperature: Preheat oil until shimmering, but don’t let it smoke! This helps achieve that golden, crispy coating without burning.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.
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Taste Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the Bang Bang Sauce ingredients; add more sriracha for heat or sweetener if you prefer a sweeter flavor in your Keto Bang Bang Shrimp.
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Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Keto Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the shrimp, you can bread and coat them up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring to keep them covered in the fridge to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to serve, heat your keto-friendly oil in a skillet and fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy, then drizzle with that delectable Bang Bang Sauce for a fresh, restaurant-quality experience. This way, you save time and enjoy a deliciously easy meal any night of the week!
Storage Tips for Keto Bang Bang Shrimp
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep flavors fresh. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing.
- Freezer: Freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to maintain that delicious crunch in your Keto Bang Bang Shrimp.
- Avoid sogginess: If reheating in the microwave, place a paper towel under the shrimp to absorb excess moisture and keep them from becoming soggy.
Keto Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for my recipe?
Absolutely! Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a slight sea smell. If purchasing frozen shrimp, ensure they are individually quick frozen (IQF) for the best texture. Avoid shrimp that appear dull or have dark spots, as these may indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Keto Bang Bang Shrimp?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to retain their crispy texture.
Can I freeze cooked shrimp, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked Keto Bang Bang Shrimp! First, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once they’re fully frozen, transfer to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier for the best results.
What can I do if my breading doesn’t stick to the shrimp?
Very! If the breading isn’t sticking, try patting the shrimp dry with paper towels before coating them. This removes excess moisture, allowing the breading to adhere better. Additionally, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp; this helps seal the breading, giving you that perfect crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for various dietary restrictions?
Indeed! The Keto Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is gluten-free and low-carb, making it ideal for those following a keto diet. However, for those with shellfish allergies, I recommend trying the same preparation method with chicken or firm tofu for a different protein that’s just as delicious.
Keto Bang Bang Shrimp: Your New Favorite Shrimp Appetizer!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, sambal, and your chosen sweetener until smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level as desired!
- Mix the Breading: In another bowl, combine almond flour and oat fiber. Whisk well until evenly mixed, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Coat the Shrimp: Take your raw shrimp and lightly coat them in the almond flour mixture, shaking off any excess for even coverage.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet over medium heat, warm your keto-friendly oil until shimmering. This should only take a few minutes to reach the right temperature.
- Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the coated shrimp to the skillet. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and let them drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Drizzle your delightful Bang Bang Sauce over the warm shrimp and serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor!