Bang Bang Shrimp: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe You Must Try

Bang Bang Shrimp is a fantastic dish that excites your taste buds with its incredible balance of flavors. The first bite delivers a creamy, spicy sauce that perfectly coats crunchy shrimp, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly simple to make at home. You’ll be amazed by how quickly you can whip up this restaurant-worthy appetizer in your kitchen.
If you’ve ever enjoyed Bang Bang Shrimp at a restaurant, you probably know how addictive this dish can be. It combines crispy shrimp with a savory, spicy sauce that keeps you coming back for more. The wonderful layering of flavors and textures is what makes this dish so special. In this article, you will discover why you will love this recipe, how to make it step-by-step, and tips on serving it for maximum enjoyment.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with Bang Bang Shrimp, a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking! Whether you’re preparing it for a party, game day, or simply a family dinner, this recipe packs a punch of flavor that is impossible to resist. Let’s dive deeper into why this recipe is worth your time and effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp has gained popularity for good reasons. Here are several aspects that will make you fall in love with this amazing dish:
1. Simple Ingredients – You can find most of the ingredients in your pantry or local grocery store.
2. Quick to Prepare – With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
3. Flavorful and Spicy – The uniquely spicy sauce adds an incredible depth of flavor that keeps your taste buds tingling.
4. Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to wow your guests!
5. Adaptable – You can adjust the heat level according to your preference. Make it milder or spicier!
6. Great Leftovers – If you happen to have any left, this dish reheats surprisingly well.
With these enticing features, it’s no wonder Bang Bang Shrimp has become a favorite among shrimp lovers. It promises a burst of flavor and joy in each bite!

Preparation and Cooking Time

To create your Bang Bang Shrimp masterpiece, let’s break down the time required for preparation and cooking:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
This quick and efficient timeline allows you to enjoy this fantastic dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup cornstarch
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for desired heat)
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Bang Bang Shrimp is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes to tenderize.
2. Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne.
3. Coat the Shrimp: Remove shrimp from the buttermilk and coat them in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re fully covered.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the Shrimp: Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Drain the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth.
8. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried shrimp with Bang Bang sauce, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated.
9. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
These straightforward steps will guide you in preparing this incredible dish that’s bound to please anyone!

How to Serve

Here are some tips for serving your delightful Bang Bang Shrimp:
1. Presentation: Serve the shrimp in a large bowl or on a platter for sharing. Bright garnishes like green onions or cilantro can add vibrant color.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with fresh lime wedges to squeeze over the shrimp for a zesty kick. Serve with a side of sticky rice or a simple salad for balance.
3. Dipping Options: Provide extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for those who want to dip their shrimp.
4. Drink Pairings: This dish pairs well with drinks like iced tea, beer, or even a light white wine to complement the spice and flavor profiles.
With these serving tips, you can elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp experience and leave a lasting impression on your family and friends. Enjoy!

Additional Tips

– Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add more spices to the breading mix. Garlic powder and onion powder can enhance the flavor.
– Choose Fresh Shrimp: Using the freshest shrimp available will make a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
– Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the Bang Bang Shrimp right after cooking. This will keep them crispy and delicious.

Recipe Variation

There are many ways to customize your Bang Bang Shrimp to suit your taste preferences:
1. Bang Bang Cauliflower: Substitute shrimp with cauliflower florets for a vegetarian option. Follow the same breading and frying methods.
2. Ginger Flavor: Add minced ginger to your Bang Bang sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Coconut Crust: Incorporate shredded coconut into the breading mixture for a tropical twist.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep your leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge. They generally stay fresh for up to 2 days.
– Freezing: If you want to freeze the shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven until crispy.

Special Equipment

These tools will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable:
– Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot: For frying the shrimp evenly.
– Tongs: Essential for safely placing and turning the shrimp while frying.
– Mixing Bowls: Needed for marinating and mixing the breading and sauce.
– Plate with Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and dried before coating.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, left to sit for five minutes.
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer, and arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Is there a gluten-free option?
You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delectable dish that brings delightful flavors and textures to your table. With its crispy shrimp coated in a spicy, creamy sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for cooks of any level. Impress your loved ones and create lasting memories around this incredible dish that elevates your culinary skills!