Bang Bang Shrimp

I still remember the first time I tried Bang Bang Shrimp at a cozy little seafood restaurant. The moment I took that first bite, the crispy texture paired with the creamy, spicy sauce just danced on my taste buds. It was an unforgettable experience, and I knew right then that I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. This recipe brings that same joy and excitement into your home, creating a dish that you’ll be proud to serve to your family and friends.

What I love most about Bang Bang Shrimp is how it combines different flavors and textures so perfectly. The crunchiness of the fried shrimp, the tang of the sauce, and the delightful hint of spice make it an instant favorite. Plus, it’s that kind of dish you can serve for a casual dinner or dress it up for a special occasion. I guarantee once you make it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, just like I do.

So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s not just delicious but also brings a bit of excitement to your table, I invite you to join me in making Bang Bang Shrimp. Let’s get started!

Preparation Process for Bang Bang Shrimp:

• Total time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Cost: Approximately $12-$15
• Servings: 4
• Course: Main Dish or Appetizer
• Cuisine: Asian-American
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp:

• 1 pound shrimp, deveined and peeled
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup corn starch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• Rice or Chinese rice noodles for serving

Shrimp is the star of this dish, bringing protein and flavor that complements the crispy batter. The buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp while giving it that rich taste. Flour and corn starch create a light, crispy crust when fried, which is so satisfying. Don’t forget the mayonnaise mixed with sweet chili sauce and sriracha, which creates that perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that you’ll crave.

Personal Note: I always keep a bottle of sweet chili sauce in my pantry—it finds its way into many dishes and is a real game-changer!

Steps to Prepare Bang Bang Shrimp:

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

1. The first step is to marinate your shrimp in 1 cup of buttermilk for about 30 minutes. This is crucial for keeping your shrimp tender and juicy, trust me.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading 2. While the shrimp soaks, grab a mixing bowl and combine 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of corn starch, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix it up well until everything’s nicely combined.

Step 3: Heat the Oil 3. In a deep pan, pour in enough vegetable oil for frying. You want it to be about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. It’s ready when a little drop of batter sizzles immediately upon contact.

Step 4: Dredge the Shrimp 4. Take the marinated shrimp out of the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then dredge it in your flour mixture. Make sure you coat each piece evenly, and shake off any extra flour.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp 5. Fry your shrimp in small batches to not overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they’re golden and crispy. Once done, strain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Sauce 6. While the shrimp are frying, let’s whip up that heavenly sauce! In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sriracha sauce. Taste it and adjust if you want it spicier.

Step 7: Coat the Shrimp 7. Once all your shrimp are fried, toss them in the sauce until they are nicely coated.

Step 8: Serve 8. Finally, serve your Bang Bang Shrimp over rice or Chinese rice noodles for a fulfilling meal, or just enjoy them as an appetizer.

Why I Love Making This Dish:

What makes Bang Bang Shrimp special for me is how versatile it is. I often make it when friends come over, and it never fails to impress. The joy on their faces when they take that first bite is priceless! This dish brings everyone together; it sparks conversations and creates lasting memories. Plus, it’s a fun dish to make, whether you’re cooking solo or with loved ones.

What You’ll Need:

• Large mixing bowls
• Deep frying pan
• Slotted spoon for draining
• Paper towels for draining
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Bang Bang Shrimp:

1. First, don’t forget to marinate the shrimp in buttermilk. It makes a world of difference!
2. While your shrimp is marinating, prepare the flour mixture. Just toss everything into a bowl and mix.
3. Heat up the oil in your pan. Make sure it’s hot enough for frying; test it out with a bit of batter.
4. Dredge the shrimp in the prepared flour mixture for that perfect crunch.
5. Fry the shrimp in batches; this keeps them from steaming and ensures they’re crispy.
6. Mix up that delicious sauce while the shrimp fry. It’s super easy and brings everything together!
7. Coat the shrimp in the sauce and enjoy.

Tips for the Best Results:

• Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. This ensures a crispy exterior instead of a soggy one.
• Don’t rush the marinating process; the longer the shrimp sit in buttermilk, the more tender they will be.
• For an extra kick, feel free to add more sriracha to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

You can pair your Bang Bang Shrimp with a simple side salad for a light meal or make a full Asian feast with sesame green beans, stir-fried veggies, or even some delicious sushi rolls. These shrimp also make an incredible topping for rice bowls.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp:

• Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
• Noodle dishes like chow mein or lo mein
• Fresh vegetables sautéed in soy sauce

What to Do with Leftovers:

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to get them back to that crispy goodness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the shrimp soggy.

(FAQ) Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
• What if I don’t have buttermilk? No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing milk with a little vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
• How do I make it gluten-free? You can substitute the flour and corn starch with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or rice flour.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? I recommend frying just before serving for the best texture but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead, then fry right before serving.

As I wrap up this recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp, I can’t help but feel excited for you to try it. Cooking is more than just a way to nourish our bodies; it’s about sharing love, memories, and experiences with our loved ones. I hope this recipe finds a special place in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the flavors take you on a delightful journey you won’t soon forget. Happy cooking!