Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
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Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

ByLila

I still remember the first time I tried bang bang shrimp at a local seafood joint. The crispy, golden shrimp coated in that creamy, spicy sauce had me hooked from the first bite. It was the perfect balance of heat, tang, and crunch, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After some trial and error in my kitchen, I nailed a version that’s just as drool-worthy. Now, it’s my go-to dish for game nights, family dinners, or whenever I’m craving something indulgent yet easy to whip up.

This bang bang shrimp recipe is beginner-friendly, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a crowd-pleaser, this dish delivers every time. Let’s dive into how you can make this restaurant-style favorite in your own kitchen!

Bang Bang Shrimp

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the bang bang sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey

For garnish (optional):

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
  2. Set up the dredging station: In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another, whisk the egg and buttermilk. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  3. Coat the shrimp: Dip each shrimp in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally coat with panko. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
  4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
  5. Fry the shrimp: Fry shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
  7. Toss and serve: Gently toss the fried shrimp in the bang bang sauce. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately.
Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Related Recipes:

Bang Bang Sauce Recipe

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Keep the oil hot: If the oil’s too cool, the shrimp will soak up grease and turn soggy. Aim for 350°F consistently.
  • Don’t oversauce: Toss the shrimp lightly to keep them crispy. Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
  • Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp taste better and have a firmer texture.
  • Test the spice: Adjust sriracha in the sauce to suit your heat tolerance. Start small and taste as you go.

Variations

  • Baked Bang Bang Shrimp: For a lighter version, spray coated shrimp with cooking spray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air Fryer Version: Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra sriracha for more heat.
  • Gluten-Free: Swap flour and panko for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storage Suggestions

  • Refrigerator: Store leftover shrimp (without sauce) in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F to restore crispiness.
  • Freezer: Freeze uncoated, breaded shrimp for up to 1 month. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time.
  • Sauce: Store bang bang sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before using.

How to Serve

Bang bang shrimp is super versatile! Serve it as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Pair it with jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad for a main dish. It also shines in tacos—just tuck the shrimp into warm tortillas with shredded lettuce and a drizzle of extra sauce. For a fun twist, pile them on a slider bun with coleslaw. No matter how you serve it, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 4 oz)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 20g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 780mg
    Note: Values are approximate and depend on portion size and preparation method.

FAQs

Can I make bang bang shrimp ahead of time?
You can prep the breaded shrimp and sauce a day in advance. Fry just before serving to keep them crispy.

What’s a good substitute for buttermilk?
Mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Is bang bang shrimp very spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can control the heat by adjusting the sriracha. Use less for a milder flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before breading to avoid soggy results.

Conclusion

This bang bang shrimp recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With its crispy texture and bold, creamy sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Plus, the recipe is flexible enough to tweak for dietary needs or spice preferences. Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. Happy cooking!

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