Bang Bang Shrimp delivers a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a favorite for seafood lovers. This dish features crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that is simply irresistible. Ideal for appetizers or as a main course on a weeknight dinner, Bang Bang Shrimp captures the essence of indulgence while being simple to prepare at home.
Why We Love This Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp stands out due to its perfect combination of crispy fried shrimp and a delectable sauce that brings all the flavors together. Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a weeknight dinner, this dish fits all occasions. The sweetness of the shrimp balances out the spicy and creamy sauce, creating harmony on your palate. This dish is also visually appealing, with the luscious sauce coating the shrimp and garnishes adding freshness. Moreover, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste, which makes it a versatile choice for anyone who enjoys seafood.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more for extra heat)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions
- Begin by marinating the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and enhances the flavor.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid crowding the pan as this can lower the oil temperature.
- Remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- In another bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Adjust the Sriracha quantity to reach your preferred heat level.
- Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp
To enhance your dining experience, serve Bang Bang Shrimp on a large platter lined with lettuce leaves. This not only makes for an attractive presentation but also adds a fresh crunch. You can offer additional dipping sauce on the side for guests who enjoy a little extra flavor. Pair the dish with a light salad featuring ingredients like cucumber, radish, and avocado to balance the richness of the shrimp. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside jasmine rice or noodles, which can soak up the delicious sauce. If you’re in the mood for a refreshing drink, opt for something like iced tea or sparkling water with lemon to cleanse your palate. This dish is best enjoyed hot, providing a delightful combination of crunchy texture and creamy flavor in every bite.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
Getting the most out of your Bang Bang Shrimp starts with the right shrimp. Choose the freshest shrimp you can find, preferably wild-caught for optimal flavor. When marinating, don’t skip the buttermilk step, since it really makes the shrimp tender and juicy. As for the frying, maintaining the right oil temperature is key; if the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil and become greasy, while too hot can result in burnt exteriors and undercooked interiors. You can also test the oil by dropping a small amount of the batter into the oil; it should bubble right away. For a crunchier coating, double-dip the shrimp by returning them to the buttermilk, then the flour mixture again before frying. Lastly, feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients based on your personal preference; some enjoy adding a hint of lime or citrus for a fresh zing. This flexibility allows you to put your unique twist on a beloved dish.
How to Store Bang Bang Shrimp
To store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate the shrimp and sauce separately to maintain their textures; the shrimp may become soggy if stored with the sauce. Consume refrigerated leftovers within 1-2 days for the best quality. When ready to enjoy them again, reheating in an oven or toaster oven works best to restore some of the original crunch. If using a microwave, do so in short intervals and check frequently to avoid overcooking. If you wish to freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy this delightful dish at a later date, though aim to use them within three months for optimal taste and texture.
Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp
There are countless delicious variations of Bang Bang Shrimp that you can explore to suit your taste preferences. For instance, you might try swapping out the shrimp for scallops or even cauliflower for a vegetarian alternative. If you’re looking to lighten the recipe up, consider baking the shrimp in the oven instead of frying them; simply toss them in a little oil and bake until crispy. You can also experiment with different flavor profiles in the sauce; adding a splash of lime juice or even a pinch of cumin can give it an exciting twist. If you love a sweeter taste, increasing the amount of sweet chili sauce will enhance the overall flavor. For a tangy touch, consider adding some pineapple juice or diced pineapple into the mix. Each variation can provide a new experience while maintaining the core essence of Bang Bang Shrimp.
FAQ about Bang Bang Shrimp
What is Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Shrimp features crispy shrimp coated in a creamy and spicy sauce, often served as an appetizer or main dish.
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to create a crispy coating without gluten.
How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of Sriracha or sweet chili sauce you add to the dish.
How can I make Bang Bang Shrimp healthier?
You can bake the shrimp instead of frying them and use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter sauce.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are thawed completely and patted dry before cooking.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Serving Bang Bang Shrimp with a fresh salad, jasmine rice, or noodles complements its rich flavor wonderfully.
Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
For the shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined Use the freshest shrimp possible, preferably wild-caught.
- 1 cup buttermilk Marinate shrimp for at least 30 minutes.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
For the sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce Adjust for sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha Increase for extra heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove shrimp from buttermilk and let excess liquid drip off.
- Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove shrimp from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.
- Toss fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
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