When a craving for something crispy and flavorful hits, my mind instantly goes to Bang Bang shrimp. This dish has a way of transforming an ordinary meal into a culinary delight, making it perfect for everything from casual hangouts to fancy dinner parties. The first time I whipped up this dish, I was amazed at how quickly they vanished from the table—the combination of a sweet and spicy sauce draped over perfectly fried shrimp is simply irresistible!
In just 20 minutes, you can serve up this delicious appetizer that’s bound to impress your family and friends. Whether you stay true to the classic shrimp or get adventurous with options like air-fried variations or even chicken, this recipe is all about versatility and flavor. So, roll up your sleeves, because it’s time to bring a wave of restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen!
Why is Quick Bang Bang Shrimp so special?
Irresistible Flavor: The vibrant sweet and spicy sauce pairs perfectly with crispy, succulent shrimp, truly elevating your appetizer game.
Quick to Prepare: You can whip this up in just 20 minutes, perfect for when unexpected guests drop by or when cravings hit!
Versatility at Its Best: Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or experiment with air-frying for a lighter twist.
Party Favorite: This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for everything from casual gatherings to intimate dinners.
Texture Triumph: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by tender shrimp, a textural delight with every mouthful.
Don’t forget to try making your own Bang Bang sauce, as it takes this dish to the next level!
Quick Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use raw, deveined & peeled shrimp for the best texture; large or jumbo shrimp are ideal to prevent overcooking.
For the Frying Oil
• Oil for frying – Canola, olive, or avocado oil works wonders; maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for that crispy finish.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Bang Bang Sauce – A delightful mix of ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 Tbsp sriracha for a creamy and spicy kick; substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
For the Milk Mixture
• Milk mixture – Combine ½ cup whole milk, 2 Tbsp sour cream, and 2 tsp lemon juice to create a battering base that tenderizes the shrimp.
For the Flour Mixture
• Flour mixture – Blend ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp ground black pepper, and ¼ tsp paprika for a perfectly crispy coating; ensure even coverage for the ultimate texture.
Feel free to get creative with air-fried versions of Quick Bang Bang Shrimp for a healthier twist!
How to Make Quick Bang Bang Shrimp
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Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a bowl, combine ½ cup whole milk, 2 tablespoons sour cream, and 2 teaspoons lemon juice. Mix well until smooth; this will help tenderize your shrimp beautifully.
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Whisk the Flour Mixture: In another bowl, blend ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon paprika. This will create the perfect crispy coating for your shrimp.
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Dredge the Shrimp: First, dip each shrimp in the milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, toss them into the flour mixture one by one, ensuring they’re evenly coated for that delightful crunch.
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 to 1½ inches of oil to 325°F using a thermometer. The right temperature is key to achieving that crispy texture—so be patient!
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Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp in small batches to the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn a lovely golden brown. Don’t rush this step; crispy is the goal!
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Toss in the Sauce: Once cooked, remove the shrimp and gently toss them in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until they’re thoroughly coated. The magic happens here!
Optional: Serve garnished with fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Quick Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the milk mixture (½ cup whole milk, 2 tablespoons sour cream, and 2 teaspoons lemon juice) and flour mixture (½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The shrimp can also be dredged in the milk and flour mixtures beforehand; just keep them covered and chilled. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil to 325°F and fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they remain crispy and delicious, just as if you made them fresh!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to personalize your Bang Bang shrimp experience with these delightful twists that enhance flavor and cater to various dietary preferences!
- Bang Bang Chicken: Swap shrimp for bite-sized chicken pieces, following the same dredging and frying method for a hearty alternative.
- Air-Fried Delight: Use an air fryer instead of frying to cut the oil and keep the shrimp crispy and healthy. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Gluten-Free Crispiness: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to maintain texture without the gluten.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture for an elevated heat level that spice lovers will adore.
- Coconut Crust: Mix in shredded coconut with the flour mixture for a tropical flair and added texture that complements the sweet and spicy sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Try using crispy tofu cubes instead of shrimp, keeping the same coating and sauce for a delightful vegetarian appetizer.
- Herbed Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the sauce for a fresh burst of flavor that brightens every bite.
- Sweet & Savory: Experiment with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar in the sauce to bring out the sweet side even more, balancing the spice perfectly.
Each of these variations adds a unique touch, ensuring your Bang Bang creation is always marvelous and memorable!
Tips for the Best Quick Bang Bang Shrimp
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Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at a steady 325°F to ensure shrimp fry evenly and achieve that desired crispy texture without burning.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches; overcrowding the skillet can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, less crispy shrimp.
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Thaw First: Make sure shrimp are fully thawed before cooking to guarantee even cooking throughout and to avoid rubbery textures.
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Dredging Technique: Coat shrimp properly in both the milk and flour mixtures; this ensures a delightful crunch when frying the Quick Bang Bang Shrimp.
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Storage & Reheating: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container; reheating in an oven helps retain their crispy goodness instead of using a microwave.
What to Serve with Quick Bang Bang Shrimp?
When planning a meal around these crispy, flavorful shrimp, consider enhancing your dining experience with complementary sides and drinks that balance and elevate the dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce, providing a comforting base for your shrimp.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A colorful mix of cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness, perfect for contrasting the rich sauce.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavors of garlic bread deliver a delightful pairing; it’s perfect for dipping into any extra Bang Bang sauce.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this dish cools off the palate and offsets the dish’s spicy notes, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Mango Salsa: Sweet and zesty mango salsa adds a tropical twist; its fresh flavors harmonize beautifully with the shrimp.
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Mojito Mocktail: A refreshing minty drink complements the heat of the shrimp while adding a touch of zest, making for a delightful dining experience.
Pair these suggestions together, and you’ll create a well-rounded meal that impresses and delights everyone at the table!
Storage Tips for Quick Bang Bang Shrimp
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Fridge: Store leftover Quick Bang Bang shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor while preventing spoilage.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a resealable bag and store for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy the shrimp again, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for best crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
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Tips for Freshness: If you plan to make a big batch, consider double-checking that your storage options keep the shrimp crispy, especially if trying an air-fried version!
Quick Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for Bang Bang shrimp?
Absolutely, for the best texture, I recommend using large or jumbo raw, deveined, and peeled shrimp. Smaller shrimp can easily overcook, leading to a rubbery texture, so go big for that perfect bite!
How should I store leftover Quick Bang Bang shrimp?
Store any leftover Quick Bang Bang shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and keeps them safe to eat. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to reclaim that crispy goodness.
Can I freeze Quick Bang Bang shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, spread the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat as mentioned, and they’ll be almost as good as freshly made.
What if my shrimp are rubbery after cooking?
If your shrimp turn out rubbery, it could be due to overcooking or improperly thawed shrimp. Make sure to fully thaw shrimp before cooking and pay attention to frying time—2 to 3 minutes per side is plenty for perfectly cooked shrimp. If they’re already rubbery, you might want to try cutting them into smaller pieces and tossing them in a stir-fry instead!
Can I make Quick Bang Bang shrimp for someone with a gluten allergy?
Very much! You can easily customize this recipe for gluten-free diners. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your sauces are certified gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!
Is it safe to use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
Definitely! Just ensure that the frozen shrimp are fully thawed before you start the preparation. I often place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water to thaw quickly. This step is key to achieving that delightful texture in your Quick Bang Bang shrimp!
Quick Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy Delight in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the milk mixture ingredients and mix well until smooth.
- In another bowl, blend the flour mixture ingredients to create the coating.
- Dip each shrimp in the milk mixture, then toss in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat 1 to 1½ inches of oil in a skillet to 325°F.
- Fry the shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove shrimp and toss in the Bang Bang sauce until coated.
