The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting hot oil fills the air, awakening my taste buds with promises of crispy, mouthwatering delight. If you’re in the mood for something fun and flavorful, this Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo is your answer. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a dish that’s reminiscent of your favorite restaurant but made right in your own kitchen. What sets this recipe apart is its delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy evening. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those looking to swap takeout for a home-cooked treat. Are you ready to bring that restaurant magic into your home? Let’s dive in!
Why Is Bang Bang Shrimp So Irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: Each shrimp is coated in cornstarch for an ultra-crispy finish, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
Flavor Explosion: The mix of sweet chili mayo with a hint of Sriracha creates a tantalizing flavor that’s both sweet and spicy.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it fits perfectly into busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Impress Your Guests: This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks restaurant-worthy, guaranteed to wow your friends.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether in tacos, as an appetizer, or served over rice, these Bang Bang Shrimp can be enjoyed in various ways. Don’t forget to check out my Butter Cajun Shrimp for another delightful seafood option!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Opt for U31-40 size for bite-sized perfection and a juicy texture.
• Buttermilk – This ingredient tenderizes the shrimp and helps the batter cling beautifully.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor during the marination process.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a rich, savory depth that complements the shrimp splendidly.
• Onion Powder – Works hand-in-hand with garlic for a well-rounded, savory profile.
• Black Pepper – Introduces a mild heat that elevates the overall taste.
• Cornstarch – Swapping flour for cornstarch gives your shrimp a light and crispy crunch.
For the Sweet Chili Sauce
• High-Quality Mayonnaise – The creamy base for the sauce; Kewpie is a top choice for its unique richness.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides that signature sweetness; feel free to use other brands!
• Sriracha Hot Sauce – Add according to your preferred heat level to customize the spiciness of your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Get ready to dive into this delightful dish that promises to redefine your dinner routine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine your large shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure every shrimp is coated. Let the shrimp marinate for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the buttermilk to tenderize the shrimp beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp is marinating, pour cornstarch into a shallow dish. Once the marination time is up, take each shrimp from the bowl, allowing the excess buttermilk to drip off, and dredge it in the cornstarch. Make sure to coat each piece evenly for that perfect crispy texture, then place them on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, pour in about 1½ inches of high-temperature oil, and heat it to 350°F. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, as getting it right is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. You’ll know it’s ready when you see small bubbles forming around a wooden spoon dipped into the oil.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in small batches, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Fry them for about 2 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crisp up nicely. Make sure each shrimp reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, which guarantees its tenderness and safety.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, grab a large bowl and mix together the high-quality mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha hot sauce. Stir until well combined to create a creamy, spicy sauce that perfectly complements your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once the shrimp are done frying, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Immediately add the shrimp to the bowl with the sauce and gently toss until each piece is well coated. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp, fresh and full of flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavors beautifully. After marinating, dredge the shrimp in cornstarch, and store them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply heat your oil and fry the marinated shrimp from the fridge. To maintain their quality, fry them in small batches, ensuring they reach a golden crispiness. Toss the freshly fried shrimp in the sweet chili mayo just before serving for that mouthwatering combination that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Elevate your meal with complementary dishes that balance the crispy, spicy goodness of shrimp.
Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy slaw adds a cool contrast and brings a delightful crunch to each bite. The creamy dressing complements the spiciness of the shrimp beautifully.
Garlic Butter Rice: This fragrant rice dish serves as a perfect base, soaking up the flavors and adding a buttery richness that harmonizes with the crispy shrimp.
Spicy Noodle Salad: Light and full of freshness, a noodle salad with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing would enhance the flavors without overwhelming them, making every mouthful exciting.
Zesty Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for bright acidity that cuts through the richness, elevating each shrimp’s flavor profile. Just a squeeze transforms the dish entirely!
Mango Salsa: A sweet and tangy mango salsa provides a delightful burst of flavor while adding a refreshing twist that complements the heat of the shrimp.
Cold Beer: Pairing this dish with a light, cold beer offers a relaxing vibe and balances the heat, making it a fantastic choice for a laid-back meal.
Frozen Yogurt: For dessert, opt for creamy frozen yogurt topped with fresh fruit. Its cool sweetness is the perfect way to end your meal, refreshing your palate after the spiciness.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
Oil Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F; this is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy texture.
Avoid Crowding: Fry shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the pot can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.
Proper Coating: Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated in cornstarch. This helps create a delightful crunch when fried.
Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after coating, as the crispiness may diminish over time.
Customize Heat Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to customize the spiciness of your sauce according to your taste preferences.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this dish, adding your personal touch to elevate the enjoyment!
- Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles instead of serving over rice for a light, low-carb alternative. It adds a refreshing crunch!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
- Crispy Cauliflower: Swap shrimp for cauliflower florets for a tasty, vegetarian option that still gets all that lovely crunch.
- Coconut Twist: Use coconut milk in place of buttermilk for a tropical flavor that harmonizes with the sweetness of the sauce.
- Taco Time: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp in soft tortillas with fresh veggies for a fun twist on tacos. It’s a great way to mix up your dinner routine.
- Asian Flair: Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for a delightful nutty flavor.
- Fancy Additions: Top with diced avocado or cilantro for freshness that balances out the richness of the sauce.
- Sweet Variations: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for an extra layer of sweetness—perfectly delicious with the heat!
For more delicious ideas, don’t miss my Healthy Shrimp Cauliflower dish, or whip up some Butter Cajun Shrimp for another delightful meal option!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp separate from the sauce to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness before serving. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Freshness Tip: For the best taste experience, enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp fresh. If stored properly, it can still be tasty even after refrigeration or freezing!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For Bang Bang Shrimp, I recommend using U31-40 size shrimp, which are large enough to be tender and juicy yet still bite-sized. When selecting shrimp, look for a slight sheen and a fresh ocean smell. Avoid any shrimp with dark spots or an overly fishy odor, as these can indicate poor quality.
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in the fridge?
You can store your Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain that lovely crispy texture, I suggest keeping the shrimp separate from the sauce until you’re ready to enjoy them again. Reheat in the oven for the best results!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Bang Bang Shrimp! Start by laying the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, which takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again!
What should I do if my shrimp aren’t crispy after frying?
If your Bang Bang Shrimp are not crispy, it could be due to the oil temperature being too low. Make sure to heat the oil to 350°F before frying, and avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature. Fry in small batches, and take care to dredge the shrimp thoroughly in cornstarch for an even coating that maximizes that amazing crunch.
Is there a way to make Bang Bang Shrimp gluten-free?
Yes, absolutely! To make this delicious Bang Bang Shrimp gluten-free, simply substitute cornstarch for any flour in the coating. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free and will still give you that delightful crispy texture. Also, check the labels on your mayonnaise and sauces to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Certainly! You can use a dairy-free buttermilk substitute made by mixing a plant-based milk (like almond or soy) with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly. This will maintain the tenderness of the shrimp without the dairy.
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Pour cornstarch into a shallow dish. Dredge each shrimp in cornstarch after marinating.
- Heat 1½ inches of oil in a large pot to 350°F, using a thermometer to check.
- Fry small batches of shrimp for about 2 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
- Mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha together in a bowl.
- Remove fried shrimp, drain on paper towels, and toss in the sauce. Serve hot.
