Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Fresh Medium Shrimp (Peel and devein for best results.); 1 cup Buttermilk (Substitute with whole milk plus lemon juice if needed.); 1 cup Cornstarch (Key for crispy coating.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Base for the creamy sauce.); 2 tablespoons Sriracha (Adjust for heat preference.); 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (Balances spice with sweetness.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Enhances the sauce’s flavor.); 2 cups Oil (For frying to achieve crispy texture.)

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The sizzle of shrimp hitting hot oil can make anyone’s mouth water. Not only does this sound tantalizing, but it also leads us to one of my favorite dishes: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp. This easy-to-make appetizer brings together a light, crunchy coating and a creamy, spicy sauce that elevates any gathering, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. In just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant version. Imagine serving these delicious little bites at your next get-together or enjoying them as a weeknight treat. Who would have thought homemade Bang Bang Shrimp could be both quick and enjoyable? So, are you ready to get crispy and spicy?

Why is Bang Bang Shrimp so irresistible?

Crispy Texture: These shrimp boast a delightful crunch, thanks to the cornstarch coating that makes each bite satisfying.
Creamy and Spicy: The unique blend of mayonnaise, Sriracha, and Thai sweet chili sauce creates a rich sauce that dances on your taste buds.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy it as an appetizer, in tacos, or over rice – this dish fits any occasion.
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp in no time!
Crowd Favorite: It’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings, perfect for impressing guests while keeping you out of the kitchen for too long.
Pairing Perfection: Combine with a drink like cold beer or cocktails, making it a well-rounded appetizer experience.

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

• Ready to make your own delicious Bang Bang Shrimp? Here’s what you’ll need!

For the Shrimp

Fresh Medium Shrimp – Peel and devein for the best bite-sized treats.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with whole milk plus lemon juice if you’re in a pinch.
Cornstarch – Key for that crispy coating; panko can work, but it changes the texture.

For the Sauce

Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base for the sauce that brings it all together.
Sriracha – Injects the perfect amount of heat; adjust it to suit your spice tolerance.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Offers a delightful sweetness that balances out the spice beautifully.
Honey – Enhances the sauce’s flavor while adding a touch of sweetness.

For Frying

Oil – Essential for frying to achieve that golden-brown, crispy exterior.

Dive into the world of homemade Bang Bang Shrimp! Your taste buds will applaud the crispy, spicy, and creamy explosion of flavors.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Soak Shrimp
Begin by placing the fresh medium shrimp in a bowl filled with buttermilk, ensuring they are fully submerged for about 1 minute. This not only enhances the shrimp’s flavor but also keeps them moist. Once soaked, drain off the excess buttermilk, allowing the shrimp to rest while you prepare the coating.

Step 2: Prepare Coating
In a shallow dish, spread out the cornstarch to create a coating station. One by one, take each shrimp and dredge it in the cornstarch, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy texture characteristic of Bang Bang Shrimp. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate while you move to the next step.

Step 3: Make Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, Thai sweet chili sauce, and honey until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the level of sriracha to your taste for the desired spicy kick. This creamy sauce will elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp, adding a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that will delight your palate.

Step 4: Heat Oil
In a deep skillet, pour in enough oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Use a cooking thermometer to check the temperature, as an accurate heat level is essential for frying. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer slightly, signaling it’s hot enough for frying.

Step 5: Fry Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry each batch for approximately 2 minutes on one side, then gently flip and cook for another 2 minutes, until they are light golden brown and crispy. The shrimp should be opaque and cooked through, ready to emerge from the oil with an irresistible crunch.

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil
Once the shrimp are perfectly fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain off the excess oil, keeping your Bang Bang Shrimp light and crispy. Let them sit for a couple of minutes as you prepare to coat them in the sauce for serving.

Step 7: Coat and Serve
In a large mixing bowl, add the fried shrimp and pour in the creamy sauce. Gently toss the shrimp until they are well coated in the delicious sauce, ensuring every piece is enveloped in flavor. Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp immediately while they are still warm, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds for that extra visual appeal.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish with less hassle! You can soak the shrimp in buttermilk and coat them in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the coated shrimp until you’re ready to fry. When you’re prepared to serve, heat the oil and fry the shrimp as directed, ensuring they remain crispy and golden. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just toss the freshly fried shrimp in the sauce right before serving to maintain that delightful crunch and flavor. Enjoy quick and satisfying home cooking with these time-saving tips!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 375°F to ensure crispy Bang Bang Shrimp. Low temperatures can lead to soggy shrimp, so use a thermometer.
Coating Method: Make sure to coat each shrimp evenly with cornstarch to achieve that irresistible crunch. Avoid clumping for the best texture.
Make Extra Sauce: Whip up an additional batch of the creamy sauce to use as a dip on the side. It enhances the experience and provides extra flavor.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the shrimp in batches, making sure they have space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can drop the oil temperature, affecting crispiness.
Serve Immediately: Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp right after tossing them in the sauce to maintain their crunch. Leftovers should be stored properly for best quality.

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Kindly note that the crispiness will diminish over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked coated shrimp on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw before frying.

Reheating: To reheat leftovers, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some crispiness, or quickly pan-fry them until heated through.

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp?

You’ve got the crispy, spicy delight of Bang Bang Shrimp ready to impress—now let’s build a meal that takes your gathering to the next level!

Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp, adding a cool element to every bite.
Garlic Fried Rice: Flavorful garlic fried rice serves as a perfect base, soaking up the sauce and balancing the crispy texture of the shrimp.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: The cool, crisp cucumbers paired with a light vinaigrette add brightness, enhancing the shrimp’s spicy profile beautifully.
Seasoned Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries bring a delightful crunch, and their natural sweetness complements the Bang Bang Shrimp’s heat.
Mango Salsa: This vibrant, fruity salsa brings a refreshing twist that brightens the dish, with its sweet and tangy notes contrasting perfectly with the spicy shrimp.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc can delightfully balance the rich, spicy flavors, making it a refreshing drink option for your meal.

Imagine the symphony of flavors and textures that come together—a meal that fills both your plate and your heart!

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delightful twists on Bang Bang Shrimp, adding your personal touch to this favorite dish!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of cornstarch for the coating, ensuring the crispy texture remains intact while accommodating dietary needs.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the sauce for an extra kick that spice lovers will enjoy.
Coconut Crunch: Swap cornstarch for shredded coconut in the coating for a tropical flair and chewy texture that harmonizes beautifully with the shrimp.
Healthy Alternative: Air-fry the shrimp instead of deep-frying for a lighter version that retains crunch without all the added oil. They become crisp with a fraction of the calories!
Creamy Avocado Sauce: Replace mayonnaise with ripe avocado for a creamy and healthy sauce that adds a rich thickness and subtle earthy flavor.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the coated shrimp before serving for a delightful contrast of flavors with each crunchy bite.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or chives into the sauce for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Bang Bang Buddha Bowl: Serve these crispy shrimp over quinoa or brown rice, alongside colorful veggies and a squeeze of lime, creating a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.

For even more shrimp inspirations, check out these delightful recipes: Garlic Shrimp Over, Tomato Spinach Shrimp, and Garlic Butter Shrimp! Let your imagination run wild and savor the experience!

Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for fresh medium shrimp that are firm, translucent, and free of any dark spots or unpleasant odors. If you’re buying peeled and deveined shrimp, opt for those with a slight sheen and a fresh ocean smell. If possible, check for the “wild-caught” label for added flavor!

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very! Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The crustiness will diminish over time, so it’s really best enjoyed fresh! If storing, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked Bang Bang Shrimp, first coat them as directed in the recipe. Spread them out on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying as usual.

What should I do if my shrimp aren’t crispy?
Not to worry! If your Bang Bang Shrimp are soggy, it might be due to low oil temperature or overcrowding in the skillet. Make sure your oil is heated to 375°F (190°C) before adding shrimp. Fry in batches, allowing enough space for each piece to cook evenly. If you’ve already fried them, you can try re-crisping in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes!

Does this recipe accommodate allergies?
Very! If you have a seafood allergy, this recipe isn’t safe for you. However, you can experiment with chicken or tofu as substitutes! For those with mayonnaise or dairy allergies, consider using vegan mayonnaise or a dairy-free yogurt option in the sauce. Always read labels to ensure ingredients meet your dietary needs.

What is the best way to reheat leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
You have a few options! To retain some crunch, I recommend reheating leftovers in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or you can quickly pan-fry them in a small amount of oil until heated through. Microwaving is convenient, but it might not keep the crispy texture—you could end up with a soggy snack!