Imagine the irresistible scent of shrimp sizzling in hot oil as it transforms into a golden-brown delight, beckoning you to indulge. This Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is my go-to whenever I want to impress guests or treat myself to something special. Inspired by the famous appetizer from Bonefish Grill, it features succulent shrimp coated in a creamy sweet chili sauce with just the right amount of heat.
After a long day at work or when hosting friends, this quick and easy dish comes together in a mere 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for both casual dinners and elegant gatherings. The crispy texture, paired with the unmistakable flavor profile, ensures it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether served on a bed of crisp lettuce or piled into crunchy taco shells, these Bang Bang Shrimp are bound to steal the show. Ready to dive into a new culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp a must-try?
Crispy texture: These shrimp boast a golden-brown crunch that is simply irresistible.
Flavor explosion: The creamy sweet chili sauce balanced with sriracha gives a delightful kick that keeps you coming back for more.
Quick preparation: With just 30 minutes needed, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules yet still feels special.
Versatile serving options: Whether as a stand-alone appetizer or a topping in tacos, they adapt to any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress friends and family alike—this dish has a way of making everyone smile!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Medium Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
• Buttermilk – Perfect for marinating shrimp, it enhances tenderness and flavor; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar in a pinch.
• Cornstarch – This coating ingredient creates a crispy exterior; if needed, you can use flour, though results will vary slightly.
For the Frying
• Sunflower Oil – Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point; other neutral oils like canola can work as well.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce; for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works beautifully.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides the necessary sweetness and flavor depth; Mae Ploy is a top choice, but homemade alternatives are great too.
• Sriracha – Adds the perfect heat; feel free to adjust according to your spice preference or swap for chili garlic sauce.
• Sea Salt – A must for flavor enhancement; regular table salt can substitute in a pinch.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
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Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a pinch of sea salt. Give it a good stir, then cover and refrigerate while you work on the shrimp.
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Marinate Shrimp: Soak your peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for enhancing flavor and tenderness.
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Prep for Frying: Heat sunflower oil in a Dutch oven to 375°F. While the oil is heating, drain the buttermilk from the shrimp and dredge each piece in cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
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Fry Shrimp: Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil in small batches. Fry them for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and floating.
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Toss in Sauce: Once fried, transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While they are still warm, toss the shrimp in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until each piece is generously coated.
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Serve: Plate your crispy Bang Bang Shrimp on a bed of lettuce, garnishing with chopped green onions for a pop of color and added freshness.
Optional: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk up to 24 hours ahead to enhance flavor and tenderness. Additionally, prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in cornstarch and fry them fresh for a delightful crunch. To maintain their quality, avoid frying too far in advance, as they taste best served immediately after frying. Toss the hot shrimp in the sauce just before serving, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
A delightful meal is just around the corner, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate.
- Crispy Wontons: The crunch of wontons fills each bite with excitement; serve them alongside for a fun textural contrast.
- Fresh Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw enhances the flavors of the shrimp—a refreshing, crunchy companion that balances the dish’s richness.
- Jasmine Rice: Soft, fragrant rice absorbs the Bang Bang sauce perfectly—making it a comforting base that complements every bite.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans add a pop of color and nutrition, providing a vibrant contrast to the crispy shrimp.
- Mango Salsa: A bright, sweet blend of fresh mango, lime, and cilantro brings a refreshing twist that elevates the entire meal experience.
- Spicy Mai Tai: Pair your dish with this tropical cocktail for a fun complement; the fruity notes echo the Bang Bang sauce beautifully.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Conclude your meal with this indulgent dessert; the rich, melty center offers a sweet finish after the shrimp’s spiciness.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
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Fridge: Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
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Reheating: For the best texture, reheat your shrimp in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispiness.
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Freezer: If you need to freeze the shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 1 month for optimal flavor.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen Bang Bang Shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep them tender and delicious.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
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Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to 375°F before frying. Too cool oil will leave your shrimp greasy instead of crispy.
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Batch Frying: Fry your shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. This will prevent overcrowding in the pan.
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Double Dredging: For extra crunch, consider double dredging the shrimp by dipping them in buttermilk and cornstarch twice. This creates a thicker, crispier coating for your Bang Bang Shrimp.
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Sauce Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha in your Bang Bang sauce based on your preferred spice level. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s harder to tone down the heat!
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Serving Suggestions: These shrimp are fantastic served not only on lettuce but also in tacos or as a topping for rice bowls. Get creative with your presentations!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity by customizing this delightful recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with battered and fried chicken pieces for a hearty twist that still offers that familiar crunch.
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Baked Instead of Fried: For a lighter option, coat the shrimp and bake them on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of cornstarch to achieve that same crispy texture without the gluten.
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Spicy Garlic Kick: Add minced garlic to the Bang Bang sauce for an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish to a new level.
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Coconut Crunch: Mix shredded coconut with the cornstarch before coating the shrimp for a tropical flair and an added crunch.
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Veggie Version: Opt for tempura-style vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian twist that’s just as satisfying.
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Mango Salsa Topper: Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp with a fresh mango salsa to enhance sweetness and brighten the dish with extra color and flavor.
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Different Sauce: Swap the Bang Bang sauce for a creamy garlic aioli or a zesty lemon herb sauce to mix up the flavor profile completely!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best medium shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh medium shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience. Make sure they have a slight sheen and a clean, briny smell. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as these are signs of spoilage. If buying frozen, ensure they are tightly packed without excessive ice crystals, which indicates they have been thawed and refrozen.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the sauce separate from the shrimp to maintain the crispy texture. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the shrimp in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help them regain their crunchiness, making them just as delightful as when they were first made!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp for later?
Yes, you can freeze Bang Bang Shrimp! To do this, place the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag and use them within 1 month for optimal flavor. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then follow the reheating instructions mentioned earlier.
What should I do if my shrimp aren’t frying properly?
Very! If your shrimp are not frying properly, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature of 375°F before adding them. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy. You can use a thermometer for accuracy. Also, work in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which allows for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for anyone with seafood allergies?
Of course! If you or your guests have seafood allergies, this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe might not be suitable. However, you can easily adapt this recipe by substituting shrimp with chicken or tofu for a similar taste and texture while making it allergy-friendly. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through properly.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
Definitely! To make this Bang Bang Shrimp gluten-free, you can simply replace the cornstarch with gluten-free breadcrumbs or a gluten-free flour blend for dredging. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients like sauces are gluten-free as well. Enjoy your delicious, crispy shrimp with peace of mind!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a pinch of sea salt. Cover and refrigerate while you work on the shrimp.
- Soak your peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
- Heat sunflower oil in a Dutch oven to 375°F. Drain the buttermilk from the shrimp and dredge each piece in cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
- Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil in small batches. Fry them for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and floating.
- Transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While warm, toss the shrimp in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until coated.
- Plate your crispy Bang Bang Shrimp on a bed of lettuce and garnish with chopped green onions.
