Diving into the world of crispy Bang Bang Shrimp feels like unearthing a hidden gem in your culinary arsenal. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser thanks to its delightful texture and spicy-tangy sauce, but it also shines in its versatility—served as an appetizer, tossed in pasta, or nestled in tacos. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll create an irresistible meal that comes together in no time. Imagine the golden crust crackling under your teeth while juicy shrimp inside adds a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s an exciting way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress friends at your next gathering. So, are you ready to turn up the heat with this quick and easy recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp
Crispy, Crunchy Delights: These Bang Bang Shrimp deliver an irresistible crunch that your taste buds will celebrate!
Versatile Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, toss in pasta, or fill tacos for a flavorful meal.
Quick to Make: With simple ingredients and a swift cooking process, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet and spicy sauce is a hit among friends and family alike, ensuring no leftovers!
Elevate Your Dinner: Say goodbye to boring meals—this recipe will spice up your weeknight dinners perfectly. Don’t forget to check out my recipes for Sheet Pan Shrimp and Red Lobster Shrimp for more delicious seafood ideas!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Batter
• Flour – Provides structure to the batter; cornstarch works for a gluten-free option.
• Seltzer – Adds lightness for that perfect crispy texture; club soda is a great substitute.
• Egg Yolk – Binds the ingredients together and enhances richness in the batter.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor; adjust to suit your preference.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayo (Kewpie) – Creamy base for the sauce; any mayo can be swapped in if needed.
• Sriracha – Delivers that signature heat to the sauce; feel free to increase for more spice.
• Sambal Oelek – Adds unique depth; replace with extra sriracha for a similar kick.
• Honey – Balances the spicy sauce with sweetness; agave nectar is a vegan alternative.
• White Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity; rice vinegar can serve as an excellent alternative.
For Garnish
• Chives – Fresh flavor and color enhancer; fresh parsley can be used as an alternative.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing zing.
These Bang Bang Shrimp ingredients will come together beautifully, creating an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, seltzer, salt, and pepper, stirring until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Next, add the egg yolk to the bowl and mix again until well blended. The batter should be slightly thick, ready to coat the shrimp and create that irresistible crispy exterior.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, pour enough oil to submerge the shrimp and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy; the oil is hot enough when small bubbles form around a wooden spoon or when a drop of batter sizzles immediately. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture in your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Once the oil is hot, take each peeled and deveined shrimp, dip it into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated while allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the battered shrimp in the hot oil, frying in small batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn a golden brown and become crispy. Remove them and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayo, sriracha, sambal oelek, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the spice level according to your preference; feel free to add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness. This flavorful sauce will complement your crispy Bang Bang Shrimp perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Once the shrimp are fried and your Bang Bang sauce is ready, toss the crispy shrimp in the sauce until they are fully coated. Serve the shrimp on a plate, garnishing with freshly chopped chives and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. For an added touch, drizzle more sauce on top for extra spice!
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours; this not only allows for quicker cooking but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Additionally, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. Just be sure to whisk it again before serving to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the shrimp in the prepared batter and toss them in the sauce, and you’ll have restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp on the table in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Note that while they can be refrigerated, they may lose their crispy texture.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze, place the cooled, cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To regain some crispiness, reheat the shrimp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Best Enjoyed Fresh: For the ultimate experience, it’s recommended to savor your Bang Bang Shrimp fresh after cooking, as this dish shines at its peak!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
• Perfectly Crisp: Make sure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying; this ensures your Bang Bang Shrimp turns out golden and crispy.
• Avoid Clumping: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, allowing each shrimp to cook evenly and maintain that delightful crunch.
• Adjust the Spice: Taste the Bang Bang sauce before serving; feel free to tweak sriracha levels according to personal preference for the perfect heat.
• Batter Variations: For a unique twist, experiment by incorporating garlic powder or paprika into the batter, enhancing flavor while keeping the focus on crispy Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Storage Reminder: Enjoy your shrimp fresh for the best texture; reheating may affect crispness, so try to consume leftovers within a day!
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp
The perfect meal begins with crispy Bang Bang Shrimp, and these delightful pairings will take your dining experience to new heights.
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Coconut Rice: A subtly sweet and creamy dish, coconut rice complements the spicy shrimp beautifully while providing a relaxing tropical vibe.
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Garlic Butter Broccoli: The bright florets with a hint of garlic create a crunchy contrast, adding a fresh note that balances the richness of the shrimp.
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Crisp, Garden Salad: Tossed greens with a tangy vinaigrette refresh your palate and add vibrant colors to your table, making for an inviting dish.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side brings a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy shrimp, enhancing flavors without overpowering them.
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Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside a zesty salsa; the crunchiness of the chips adds another dimension while inviting guests to dig into the meal.
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Mango Salsa: This sweet and tangy topper brightens the shrimp and adds a tropical flair, bringing an explosion of flavors that dance on your tongue.
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Cold Beer or Sparkling Water: An ice-cold beverage with light citrus notes is perfect for washing down your meal, enhancing the sweet-spicy experience with every sip.
No matter what you choose to serve with your Bang Bang Shrimp, each option provides a unique twist that adds to the sensory bounty of your meal.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and tailor your Bang Bang Shrimp to your taste—each twist creates a new culinary adventure!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the traditional flour for cornstarch to keep things crispy without gluten.
Cornstarch will provide a lightness that ensures your shrimp stay deliciously crunchy. -
Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based mayo for the sauce to ensure it remains creamy without dairy.
Coconut or avocado mayo can add a unique twist while keeping the flavor intact. -
Extra Spicy: Increase the amount of sriracha or add a dash of cayenne pepper to spice things up.
If you can handle the heat, this elevates the bang factor in your sauce! -
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro into your batter for added flavor and color.
This variation brings a refreshing taste, making every bite an exciting experience. -
Pasta Twist: Toss the Bang Bang Shrimp with linguine and extra sauce to make a delectable pasta dish.
Imagine twirling those crispy shrimp around your fork, coated in a flavorful, creamy sauce! -
Baked Alternative: For a healthier option, coat the shrimp in the batter and bake until crispy.
A simple drizzle of olive oil can give you a satisfying crunch while keeping things light. -
Taco Night: Turn your Bang Bang Shrimp into tacos with fresh toppings like slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
This transformation makes for a fun and interactive dinner option that everyone will love! -
Asian-Inspired: Incorporate sesame oil or ginger into the sauce for a different flavor profile.
This could transport your taste buds to a delightful fusion cooking experience reminiscent of Asian dishes.
These variations are sure to make your Bang Bang Shrimp feel fresh and exciting every time! And if you’re looking for inspiration, try pairing them with Shrimp Casserole Cozy or adding a touch of zing to your pasta with Shrimp Scampi Pasta. Happy cooking!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
I recommend using peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works just fine—just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that while the shrimp can be refrigerated, they may lose some of their crispy texture. For the tastiest experience, enjoy them fresh!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, let them cool completely after cooking. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until frozen solid (about 1-2 hours). Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
What can I do if my Bang Bang Shrimp batter isn’t crispy?
If the batter isn’t crispy, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp—350°F (175°C) is ideal. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp. Additionally, if you’re using a wet batter, consider trying a dry breading for an even crispier result, especially for oven-baked versions.
Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can create a gluten-free version by substituting flour with cornstarch, and for a vegan twist, replace the mayo with a vegan alternative and use agave nectar instead of honey. Always check the ingredients of any store-bought sauces to ensure they align with your dietary needs.
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp that Will Spice Up Your Dinner!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, seltzer, salt, and pepper, stirring until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Next, add the egg yolk and mix until well blended.
- In a deep skillet or fryer, pour enough oil to submerge the shrimp and heat it to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the oil is hot, dip each peeled shrimp into the batter, fully coating it while allowing excess to drip off. Fry in small batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayo, sriracha, sambal oelek, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined and creamy. Adjust the spice level as desired.
- Toss the crispy shrimp in the sauce until fully coated. Serve garnished with chopped chives and a squeeze of lemon juice.
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