If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances convenience and gourmet flair, let me introduce you to my go-to showstopper: Easy Bang Bang Shrimp. Imagine biting into crispy, golden shrimp, each piece enveloped in a luscious, sweet chili mayo that packs a delightful heat. This recipe was inspired by a favorite find at BoneFish Grill, but what’s astonishing is how easily you can recreate this fabulous dish in your own kitchen—in under 30 minutes!
After a week of mundane takeout, I craved something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. The moment I began marinating the shrimp in buttermilk and spices, I knew I was onto something special. The combination of textures from the crunchy coating to the creamy sauce makes each bite an unforgettable experience. Plus, this dish is versatile enough to serve as a fantastic appetizer or a stunning main course paired with your favorite sides. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this light and flavorful delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Easy Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Core: This recipe is incredibly easy, with minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for any home cook.
Crispy Perfection: The light, crispy coating creates a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp inside.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with the rich taste of sweet chili mayo, balanced with just the right amount of heat from Sriracha.
Versatile Dish: Serve as a show-stopping appetizer or make it a main dish alongside rice or veggies.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a dinner party or a family meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Quick Prep Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal choice for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.
Dive into this delightful recipe today and elevate your home-cooked meals!
Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – peeled and deveined; U31-40 size is perfect for this easy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe.
• Buttermilk – tenderizes the shrimp and adds moisture for a great batter.
• Salt – enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp, making each bite delicious.
• Garlic Powder – adds savory depth, elevating the taste profile.
• Onion Powder – complements the garlic and brings a hint of sweetness.
• Black Pepper – offers a subtle spice without overpowering the dish.
• Cornstarch – gives a lighter, crispier coating compared to flour.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – forms the creamy base; Kewpie Japanese mayonnaise is preferred for its rich, savory flavor.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – adds a sweet and mildly spicy kick; a must-have for that signature flavor.
• Sriracha Hot Sauce – adds heat; adjust to your taste for a perfect balance.
Enjoy making this easy, flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for more!
How to Make Easy Bang Bang Shrimp
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Marinate the Shrimp: Begin by marinating the large shrimp in buttermilk and seasonings, including salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Allow it to soak for 10 minutes to ensure tenderness and flavor.
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Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, add cornstarch. This will create that light and crispy coating you are aiming for, so make sure it’s well distributed and ready to use.
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Dredge Each Shrimp: Take each marinated shrimp and dredge it in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Place them on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat oil to 350°F. This temperature is crucial for frying; it ensures the shrimp cook thoroughly while achieving that golden brown exterior.
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Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches. Fry each batch for about 2 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Remember not to overcrowd the pot!
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Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to taste. This creamy concoction will be the perfect complement to your crispy shrimp.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Easy Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. While the flavors will still be delicious, the coating may lose its crispiness over time.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore some crispiness, reheat the shrimp in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, rather than microwaving.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your Easy Bang Bang Shrimp with fresh sides like rice or veggies for a complete meal, even after storing!
Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to tailor this recipe to your taste, and enjoy experimenting with exciting flavor twists!
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Spicy Upgrade: Add more Sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick that will awaken your taste buds.
Embrace the heat and make it your own; just a little extra sauce can go a long way! -
Chicken Substitute: Swap shrimp for bite-sized chicken pieces, marinating and cooking them the same way for a hearty twist.
This alternative is perfect for those who prefer poultry but still crave that crispy goodness! -
Vegan Delight: Use tofu instead of shrimp, and make sure to press it well before marinating for the best texture.
Cut the tofu into cubes and coat it just like you would shrimp for a satisfying plant-based option. -
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the sauce for a vibrant, herbal punch.
This addition brightens the dish, giving it a refreshing character that complements the creamy base. -
Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice into the sauce to enhance the flavors with zesty brightness.
This brightens each bite, bringing an invigorating lift to the rich and creamy dish. -
Texture Twist: Try panko breadcrumbs instead of cornstarch for an even crunchier coating.
The difference is amazing, providing an extra layer of texture that takes the dish to another level. -
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate sesame oil into the sauce for a nutty depth that beautifully complements the sweetness.
A little goes a long way, adding an intriguing taste twist that will have everyone guessing! -
Sweet Balance: Use honey or maple syrup in the sauce to boost sweetness and create a harmonious flavor profile.
This subtly enhances the dish, making it enticingly sweet while still keeping that kick.
Explore these variations to discover your favorite version of Easy Bang Bang Shrimp!
What to Serve with Easy Bang Bang Shrimp?
To create a delightful dining experience, consider pairing your crispy shrimp with these fabulous sides and drinks.
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Coconut Jasmine Rice: A fragrant addition, this rice provides a creamy backdrop to balance the spicy shrimp, enhancing each bite. The coconut flavor adds a tropical flair to your meal.
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Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli complements the dish, introducing a fresh, vibrant element that offsets the richness of the sauce. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies!
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Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing offers refreshing contrast, providing crispness and a delightful burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
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Garlic Noodles: Buttery, garlicky noodles serve as a comforting base that meshes well with the bold seasonings of the shrimp, making for a truly satisfying combination.
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Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce: For an interactive element, serve a side of sweet and sour sauce for dipping. The acidity cuts through the richness, enhancing those sweet and spicy notes.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a slightly sweet Riesling brings a refreshing touch that brightens the rich flavors of the dish. The acidity from the wine elevates the overall tasting experience.
Let these pairings turn your Easy Bang Bang Shrimp into a complete and scrumptious meal that your friends and family will rave about!
Expert Tips for Easy Bang Bang Shrimp
• Temperature Check: Ensure the oil is at 350°F before frying; this is key to achieving that crispy texture without sogginess.
• Batch Frying: Fry the shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the pot can lower the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy, chewy shrimp.
• Marinating Magic: Allow the shrimp to marinate for the full 10 minutes. This step enhances flavor and tenderness, making your easy Bang Bang Shrimp even better!
• Sauce Adjustment: Taste the sauce and adjust the Sriracha to your preferred level of heat. This flexibility allows you to cater to everyone’s spice preferences.
• Serve Fresh: Enjoy the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after coating. This is when it’s crispiest, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. However, remember that the crispy coating tends to soften over time.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak in all that delicious flavor. Additionally, you can dredge the shrimp in cornstarch ready for frying; store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just before frying, heat the oil and work in small batches for the best texture. For the sauce, prepare it ahead and refrigerate; it stays fresh for 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply fry the shrimp and toss them in the sauce for an effortless yet fabulous dish that saves you time on busy weeknights!
Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Easy Bang Bang Shrimp?
I recommend using large, peeled and deveined shrimp, specifically U31-40 size for bite-sized pieces. This size ensures a perfect balance between crunch and tenderness, maximizing your dining experience.
How should I store leftovers from Easy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the crispy coating might lose its texture over time, but the flavors will still be delightful!
Can I freeze Easy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that lovely crispiness.
What if my shrimp are too chewy or soggy after frying?
The key to perfect shrimp lies in the frying process! Make sure your oil is at 350°F, and fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can result in less crispy shrimp. If they turn out soggy, it may be due to the oil temperature being too low at the start.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This recipe contains seafood and may also include allergens like eggs (from the mayonnaise) and wheat (from the cornstarch if you opt for a variant that includes it). Always check with your guests about any allergies, and feel free to substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for other dietary preferences.
How can I adjust the spice level in my Easy Bang Bang Shrimp?
You can easily tailor the heat to your liking! Start by adding a small amount of Sriracha to the sauce, then taste it. Gradually increase until it reaches your desired level. If you’re serving guests, I often suggest serving the sauce on the side for those who prefer a milder taste!
Easy Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy Delight in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and seasonings for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the coating by adding cornstarch to a shallow dish.
- Dredge each shrimp in cornstarch and place on a baking sheet.
- Heat oil to 350°F in a large pot.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a bowl.
- Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until well coated and serve immediately.
