Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe: Crispy, Spicy, and Delicious Appetize

 

Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that combines crispy breading with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. It’s not only incredibly flavorful but also very simple to prepare at home. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, snack, or main course, this recipe will impress every guest at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

First of all, what makes this dish so irresistible is its combination of textures and flavors. The shrimp is crispy on the outside yet juicy on the inside, while the sauce is both creamy and bold. Additionally, this recipe is versatile—it works equally well for casual dinners or party appetizers.

If you want to ensure your ingredients are top-notch, you can learn how to choose the best shrimp with this guide to sustainable seafood. Moreover, if you’re new to frying, you’ll find this step-by-step frying guide incredibly helpful.

Finally, for a sweet ending to your meal, consider pairing this recipe with our banana brownies recipe—a dessert that’s both simple and indulgent.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined, fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1-2 tsp sriracha
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for sweetness)

Tools You’ll Need

• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Thermometer (optional, but recommended for frying)

How to Prepare Bang Bang Shrimp

1. Preparing the Shrimp

First, if you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them by soaking them in cold water for 15-20 minutes. Then, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. After that, season the shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Breading the Shrimp

Next, coat each shrimp in cornstarch, ensuring an even layer. For an even crispier texture, you can dip each shrimp into a cornstarch slurry before rolling them in panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well.

3. Frying the Shrimp

After breading, heat oil to 375°F (190°C) in a skillet or deep fryer. Fry the shrimp in small batches, as overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature. Each batch should cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn golden brown. Finally, transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Tip: If you prefer a healthier option, you can air fry the shrimp. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, spray the shrimp lightly with oil, and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How to Make Bang Bang Sauce

The Bang Bang Sauce is what makes this dish stand out. To make it:

1. Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a bowl.
2. Whisk the ingredients until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors as needed by adding more chili sauce for sweetness or sriracha for heat.

Assembling and Serving Bang Bang Shrimp

Once the shrimp have cooled slightly, toss them in the Bang Bang Sauce until evenly coated. However, if you prefer extra crunch, you can serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the shrimp over steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.
• Wrap the shrimp in soft tortillas with lettuce and avocado to make shrimp tacos.
• Add the shrimp to a fresh garden salad for a crunchy and flavorful topping.

FAQs About Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

1. What makes this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe unique?

This recipe is unique because the sauce combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, creating a creamy and spicy flavor that complements the crispy shrimp perfectly.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure the breading sticks properly.

3. How can I keep shrimp crispy?

To keep the shrimp crispy, avoid over-tossing them in the sauce. Alternatively, serve the sauce as a dip on the side.

Final Thoughts on Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion. The crispy shrimp paired with the bold flavors of the sauce will quickly become a family favorite. Moreover, it’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish.

Finally, don’t forget to complete your meal with a dessert like our banana brownies recipe for a satisfying finish. Try this recipe today and bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant into your home!