Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a crispy, flavorful dish that combines perfectly fried shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce that packs just the right amount of heat. The shrimp are coated in a light batter, fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a rich, tangy sauce made with mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha.

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish known for its crispy, golden-brown shrimp tossed in a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. While the sauce is a key component, it’s the crunchiness of the shrimp that makes this recipe so delightful. Typically, this dish is served as an appetizer or appetizer-style entrée at many seafood restaurants, but it’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.

The name “Bang Bang” likely refers to the combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that make an immediate impact on your taste buds—just like a “bang” when it hits. The sauce is often made from a mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, though variations may exist depending on the restaurant or recipe creator.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

Use a Thermometer: If you’re frying the shrimp yourself, a thermometer is a great tool to ensure your oil is at the right temperature. Ideally, the oil should be between 350°F and 375°F. Too hot, and the shrimp will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil.

Rest the Fried Shrimp: Allow the shrimp to rest on a paper towel to absorb excess oil, which helps preserve the crispy texture.

Cornstarch for Crunch: The combination of cornstarch and flour helps create an ultra-crispy coating on the shrimp. Don’t skip the cornstarch!

Make the Sauce Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a more intense flavor.

Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp

While the traditional Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is widely loved, you can try a few variations to make the dish your own:

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: For a fun twist, add the saucy shrimp to soft corn tortillas, and top with shredded lettuce, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Bang Bang Shrimp Salad: Use the shrimp as a topping for a fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a drizzle of extra sauce. This turns it into a lighter yet flavorful dish.

Baked Bang Bang Shrimp: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try baking the shrimp instead of frying. Coat the shrimp in the flour mixture, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp can be served in various ways depending on the occasion:

• As an Appetizer: Serve it as a starter at your next dinner party or family gathering. Pair it with a light cocktail like a mojito or a crisp white wine.
• As a Main Course: For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp over a bed of rice or alongside a vegetable stir-fry.
• On a Buffet: It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that can be served alongside other appetizers like crispy calamari or avocado fries for a complete seafood spread.

How to Store Bang Bang Shrimp

While Bang Bang Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later. Here’s how:

• Storing the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The shrimp will lose some of its crispiness, but the flavor will remain intact.
• Reheating: Reheat the shrimp in a hot oven (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes to regain some of the crispiness. Alternatively, you can sauté the shrimp in a pan with a small amount of oil to heat them through.
• Freezing: If you want to make a batch in advance, you can freeze the cooked shrimp. Just make sure they’re well-sealed in a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat directly from the freezer for the best results.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used for this recipe. Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.

How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp?

The level of spiciness in Bang Bang Shrimp depends on how much sriracha you add to the sauce. For a mild version, use only a small amount of sriracha or omit it altogether. For extra heat, increase the sriracha to your liking.

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp without frying?

Yes, you can bake the shrimp instead of frying them. While they may not be as crispy, they’ll still be delicious when tossed in the creamy sauce.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a light salad. It also makes a great topping for tacos or rice bowls.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp is a fun, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to impress your guests. With its perfect balance of crispy shrimp and creamy sauce, this recipe is both indulgent and easy to prepare at home. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.