Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe – The Ultimate Crispy Delight

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If you’ve ever tasted the deliciously crispy shrimp drenched in a sweet and spicy sauce, you know exactly why Bang Bang Shrimp has become a go-to appetizer at many restaurants. But what if you could recreate that mouthwatering dish right in your own kitchen? Well, you can! This recipe will guide you through making the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp that rivals any restaurant dish. From the crispy coating to the irresistible sauce, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your next meal.

Why You Should Try This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

There’s something special about the combination of crispy shrimp and a zesty sauce that makes Bang Bang Shrimp unforgettable. The crunchiness of the shrimp, combined with the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, makes every bite a burst of joy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a tasty treat, Bang Bang Shrimp checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd favorite.

Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get started!  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Ingredients You’ll Need for Bang Bang Shrimp

Before you can cook this delicious dish, you’ll need to gather all the ingredients. Don’t worry – you won’t need any fancy tools or hard-to-find items. Everything can be found at your local grocery store.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp (cleaned and deveined) – Choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture.
• ¾ cup buttermilk – This will help create a creamy batter that coats the shrimp beautifully.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – To help create a crispy exterior.
• ¼ cup cornstarch – For an even crispier texture.
• 1 egg – Adds richness to the batter.
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder – For that savory, aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds depth and a slight smokiness to the shrimp.
• ½ tablespoon hot sauce – This gives the shrimp a bit of heat.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds just the right amount of seasoning.
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs – These breadcrumbs create a light, crispy coating.

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and a bit of tang.
• ½ tablespoon hot sauce – For an extra kick of heat.
• 1 tablespoon honey – For a touch of sweetness that balances the spiciness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the sauce to your liking.

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s break down the steps to creating Bang Bang Shrimp. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, but the key is to make sure every step is executed with care to achieve the perfect crispy shrimp with flavorful sauce.

1. Prepare the Sauce

First things first – let’s get the sauce out of the way. After all, it’s the heart of the dish.

• In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, and honey. Stir until the ingredients are fully blended together.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
• Once it’s mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce while you work on the shrimp. The sauce will thicken a bit in the fridge, making it the perfect complement to the crispy shrimp later.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

While the sauce is chilling, let’s move on to the shrimp. You want to ensure the shrimp is coated perfectly and fried to crispy perfection.

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Add in the buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. You’re looking for a creamy texture that will coat the shrimp nicely.

3. Coat the Shrimp

Now it’s time to coat each shrimp. This is where the magic happens!

• Add the shrimp to the batter, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
• In a separate shallow bowl, add the Panko breadcrumbs.
• One by one, transfer the battered shrimp into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. You may need to add more breadcrumbs depending on how many shrimp you have.

4. Fry the Shrimp

Here’s where things get crispy! Let’s fry the shrimp until they’re golden brown.

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to submerge the shrimp halfway, so don’t skimp on the oil.
• When the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully drop the shrimp in, being sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches if necessary.
• Fry the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn a light golden brown and crispy.
• Use tongs to remove the shrimp from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

The shrimp are now crispy and golden, and the sauce is perfectly chilled. Time to bring everything together.

• Drizzle the Bang Bang Sauce over the shrimp or serve it on the side for dipping.
• Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of cilantro for added flavor and a touch of color.
• Serve the shrimp as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish over rice or a fresh salad.

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Nutritional Information for Bang Bang Shrimp

Knowing the nutritional details can help you enjoy this dish guilt-free. Here’s a breakdown:

• Calories per Serving: 480 kcal
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutritional Breakdown:

• Protein: The shrimp provide a healthy source of lean protein.
• Fat: Most of the fat comes from the frying oil and mayonnaise in the sauce.
• Carbohydrates: The flour, cornstarch, and Panko breadcrumbs contribute to the carb count, but the dish remains relatively balanced.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

Making Bang Bang Shrimp is easy, but there are a few tips that can help elevate your dish to the next level:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best texture and flavor, always opt for fresh shrimp. Frozen shrimp works too, but make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When frying, work in batches to avoid overcrowding. This allows the shrimp to cook evenly and become extra crispy.
• Adjust the Heat: If you love spice, don’t be afraid to add more hot sauce to both the batter and the sauce. On the flip side, if you prefer a milder version, cut back on the hot sauce.
• Experiment with the Sauce: The sweet and spicy sauce is versatile. Feel free to tweak the balance between honey, chili sauce, and hot sauce to suit your personal taste.

FAQs About Bang Bang Shrimp

What’s the Best Type of Shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp?

For the best result, choose large or jumbo shrimp. Their size provides a satisfying bite, and they hold up well to the crispy coating.

Can I Make Bang Bang Shrimp Ahead of Time?

While the shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter and coat the shrimp in advance. Just store the coated shrimp in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them.

Can I Make a Healthier Version of Bang Bang Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can bake the shrimp instead of frying them for a healthier option. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp pairs wonderfully with fried rice, a green salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over noodles or in a wrap for a fun twist.

Conclusion

Now that you have the recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp, it’s time to make your kitchen smell amazing! Whether you’re preparing it for a party or simply treating yourself to a flavorful meal, this dish never disappoints. With crispy shrimp, a flavorful batter, and a tangy sauce, Bang Bang Shrimp is a guaranteed hit.

Don’t wait to try it out—gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy every crispy, saucy bite. Your taste buds will thank you!

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