Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—a delicious appetizer or main dish with a signature crispy texture and bold, creamy-spicy flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving restaurant-quality seafood at home, this recipe is a must-try.
What Is Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish made famous by its crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that balances sweetness and heat. Originating from Asian fusion cuisine, this dish has become a global favorite, thanks to its tantalizing combination of textures and flavors.
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg (beaten)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For Homemade Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
Optional Garnishes
- Green onions (chopped)
- Sesame seeds
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
Start by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl:
- Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Set aside in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Season and Prep the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp coating.
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Beat the egg in another bowl.
3. Coat the Shrimp
- Dip each shrimp into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Transfer the shrimp to the flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
4. Fry the Shrimp
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Toss in Bang Bang Sauce
- Once the shrimp are fried, drizzle or toss them in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added layer of flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfectly Balanced Sauce: The combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili, and sriracha creates a creamy, sweet, and spicy harmony.
- Crispy Coating: The flour and cornstarch mix ensures the shrimp fry up golden and crunchy.
- Customizable Heat: Add or reduce the red pepper flakes and sriracha to suit your spice preference.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp.
- Keep Oil Hot: Ensure the oil temperature remains steady at 350°F for even frying.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain the shrimp’s crispiness.
- Make It Ahead: The Bang Bang sauce can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Over Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
- In Tacos: Wrap the shrimp in soft tortillas, top with shredded cabbage, and drizzle with extra sauce for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just ensure the shrimp are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before cooking.
2. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the coated shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until crispy.
3. Is there a healthier alternative to mayonnaise in the sauce?
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the Bang Bang sauce.
4. How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is moderate. To reduce heat, use less sriracha or omit the red pepper flakes.
This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your home. Its crispy texture, bold flavors, and customizable spice level make it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a snack, main course, or taco filling, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ready to wow your taste buds? Try this recipe today and experience why Bang Bang Shrimp has earned its fame!
