There’s a special thrill that comes with frying up a batch of Bang Bang Shrimp, and I can almost hear the chorus of my family cheering as the scent fills the kitchen. The crispy, golden shrimp, finished with a coating of sweet and spicy mayo sauce, transform any meal into an occasion—perfect whether you’re having a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
I stumbled upon this gem while reminiscing over my favorite dishes from a local Asian restaurant. Transported by taste, I knew I had to recreate that delightful crunch and flavor at home. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this Indo-Chinese delight, making it an ideal solution for those monotonous weeknight dinners.
With its versatility as both an appetizer and a main course, this recipe pulls double duty. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the secret of achieving that restaurant-quality taste right in your kitchen!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Try?
Crispy Texture: The deep-fried shrimp come out perfectly golden and crunchy, ensuring every bite is a delight.
Savory and Sweet: The blend of sweet chili mayo and Sriracha creates a flavor explosion that tantalizes the palate.
Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp at home without the fuss.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether as an appetizer or a main course, it pairs wonderfully with rice, tacos, or even ramen.
Crowd Pleaser: Your family and guests will be raving about this dish, transforming any meal into a special occasion.
Make sure to check out ideas on how to make your Bang Bang Shrimp even more delicious with sauce variation tips.
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture.
• Buttermilk – Acts as a tenderizing marinade to ensure a crispy coating.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the shrimp.
• Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic savory notes that elevate the dish.
• Onion Powder – Contributes sweetness and depth, balancing the spice.
• Black Pepper – Introduces a subtle heat that complements the shrimp.
• Cornstarch – Essential for achieving that light and crispy coating; a great gluten-free alternative.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; Kewpie is recommended for authentic flavor.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides a perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat.
• Sriracha – Adds the necessary spicy kick; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
Transform your dinner plans with these essential ingredients to create a mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp that your family will love!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
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Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let this flavorful mix sit for 10 minutes to tenderize and absorb the spices.
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Prepare the Coating: Pour cornstarch into a shallow dish. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch, ensuring to shake off any excess. Lay them out on a baking sheet to keep them ready for frying.
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy texture.
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Fry the Shrimp: Carefully fry the shrimp in batches, cooking each for about 2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. This step ensures they’re perfectly crispy all around.
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Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha until well combined. This creamy sauce will add that magical flavor to your fried shrimp.
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Toss and Serve: Once the shrimp are fried, immediately toss them in the sauce for a delightful coating. Serve them right away to preserve their crispiness!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added crunch and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. While the flavor remains intact, expect some loss in crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp (cooked or uncooked) in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp coating in advance and store it separately from the cooked shrimp in the fridge, making meal prep a breeze!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Bang Bang Shrimp—there’s so much room for customization to match your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend to maintain that crispy texture without gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add more Sriracha or a few drops of chili oil for an extra punch; perfect for heat enthusiasts who savor the burn.
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Sweet Twist: Swap out the Thai sweet chili sauce with honey or agave to create a different kind of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fried shrimp.
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Baked Option: If you’re looking for a lighter version, simply bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
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Vegan Delight: Replace shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower bites, coated and fried in the same way for an equally delicious experience.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the sauce for a refreshing twist. It brings brightness and enhances the overall flavor.
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Savory Seasoning: Incorporate smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into the cornstarch coating for added depth and flavor—smoky and spicy are a match made in heaven.
With these variations, you can tailor your Bang Bang Shrimp to delight every palate at your table!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce, offering a lovely counterbalance to the crispy shrimp.
- Crunchy Asian Slaw: A fresh, crunchy slaw adds a refreshing crunch and brightens up the meal with its tangy notes.
- Garlic Butter Noodles: These savory noodles provide a buttery richness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s textures and bold flavors.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the heat of the shrimp, creating a comforting side choice.
- Cucumber Salad: A crisp, cool cucumber salad adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the fried shrimp.
- Mango Salsa: The tropical sweetness of mango salsa brightens every bite, bringing a fruity balance to the spicy shrimp.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing lemonade or iced tea can cleanse the palate, making every bite and sip a delightful experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a sweet finish that rounds out the meal perfectly.
Let these complementary side dishes inspire a delightful feast that everyone will cherish!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
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Choose Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh, large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for optimal flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can be used, but ensure they’re thawed properly before marinating.
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Marinate Wisely: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes in buttermilk and spices to enhance their tenderness and absorb great flavor.
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Perfect Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying to achieve that perfectly crispy coating; too cool oil can make the shrimp soggy.
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Batch Frying: Fry shrimp in small batches to prevent temperature drop in the oil, ensuring each piece is evenly cooked and crispy.
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Immediate Serving: Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after tossing them in the sauce to maintain that delightful crispy bite; the sauce can soften the coating over time.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk with the spices up to 24 hours in advance, which not only saves time but also enhances the flavors. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry. If you’re preparing for a gathering, you can also pre-coat the shrimp with cornstarch and store them in the fridge for a few hours. When it’s time to serve, simply heat your oil to 350°F and fry them for about 2 minutes until golden brown. Toss them in the sauce right before serving for that delightful, crispy texture just like at your favorite restaurant!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but you can also use frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very! Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that while the taste will still be delicious, the crispy texture may diminish over time.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Of course! To freeze the shrimp, first lay the cooked or uncooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat Bang Bang Shrimp?
To restore that delightful crunch, reheat the Bang Bang Shrimp in an air fryer or a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crisp again. This method keeps them golden and delicious, almost like they were freshly fried!
Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergies, make sure to check the labels on your mayonnaise and Thai sweet chili sauce, as these may contain common allergens like eggs or gluten. And if you wish to make it gluten-free, substitute cornstarch for any flour-based coating.
Can I substitute ingredients in the sauce?
Very! You can absolutely get creative with the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using less Sriracha or switch it out for a different chili sauce that’s more to your taste. You could even add a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick!
Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy, Spicy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Pour cornstarch into a shallow dish. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch, shaking off excess. Lay on a baking sheet.
- Heat oil in a large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha until well combined.
- Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce immediately and serve right away.
