Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Shrimp (U31-40 size); 1 cup Buttermilk (Substitute with milk and lemon juice if needed); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 3/4 cup Cornstarch (Essential for crispy coating); 1/2 cup High-Quality Mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended); 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (Key ingredient for sauce); 1 tablespoon Sriracha Hot Sauce (Adjust according to heat preference)

As I prepared for a casual dinner gathering the other night, my craving for something exciting led me straight to the kitchen to make Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo. The thought of tender, friend shrimp slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce made my mouth water. It’s a breeze to whip up and the outcome is utterly delightful! Not only is this dish a fantastic transition from fast food to homemade deliciousness, but it’s also sure to impress as an appetizer or scrumptious filling for tacos. Each bite envelops that irresistible crunch while delivering savory goodness that makes you want more. Curious to discover how easy it is to bring this vibrant dish to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Bang Bang Shrimp so irresistible?

Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for all skill levels, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs.

Savory, Balanced Flavors: The sweet chili mayo mingles beautifully with the crisp shrimp, creating a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether as an appetizer or a taco filling, this dish impresses guests every time.

Versatile Options: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein experience, allowing for endless customization.

Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your kitchen in no time.

Ready to elevate your home cooking? Try pairing this dish with some homemade dipping sauces for an extra flavor boost!

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Large Shrimp – Choose U31-40 size for the juiciest and most tender bites in your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp and helps the batter stick; substitute with regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
Salt – Enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor and balances the dish.
Garlic Powder – Adds a delightful depth of flavor; fresh garlic can also work if you prefer.
Onion Powder – Complements the garlic and adds an aromatic touch to the seasoning blend.
Black Pepper – Provides a subtle heat to the seasoning mix and elevates the overall flavor.
Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a light and crispy batter; it’s a must for your perfect Bang Bang Shrimp!

For the Sauce

High-Quality Mayonnaise – Forms the base of the sauce, contributing creaminess; Kewpie is best, but Duke’s or Hellman’s will suffice.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds the signature sweetness and mild heat; this ingredient is key for your sauce.
Sriracha Hot Sauce – Infuses an adjustable spiciness; feel free to alter the amount to match your preferred heat level.

With these fresh and simple ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating an irresistible dish that captures the spirit of homemade comfort food!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the large shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 10 minutes, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This step is crucial for tenderizing the shrimp and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your Bang Bang Shrimp packs a punch with every bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp is marinating, pour cornstarch into a shallow dish. Once the marinating time is up, take each shrimp one at a time and dredge it in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This creates a light, crispy coating that is essential for achieving that perfect crunch in your Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat 1½ inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, ensuring the oil is hot enough. A properly heated oil helps achieve a golden brown color while keeping the shrimp juicy. It’s important to maintain this temperature throughout the frying process for the best results.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches to the hot oil, frying them for about 2 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the shrimp, ensuring they cook evenly. Verify that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety, which ensures your Bang Bang Shrimp is perfectly tender and ready to enjoy.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
While the shrimp is frying, prepare the sweet chili mayo sauce by combining mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a large bowl. Stir gently until fully blended, creating a creamy and tangy sauce. This sauce is the star of your Bang Bang Shrimp, providing a delicious balance of flavors that will take this dish to the next level.

Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once all the shrimp is fried and golden, promptly transfer them to the bowl with the sauce. Toss the shrimp gently, making sure each piece is evenly coated in the sweet and spicy sauce. Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately for the best texture and taste, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flair.

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp?

Elevate your culinary experience by pairing this crispy indulgence with delightful sides and drinks that complement its vibrant flavors.

Garlic Fried Rice: The aromatic, buttery flavors of this dish balance the spicy shrimp, creating a comforting contrast. A spoonful of fluffy, garlic-infused rice makes each bite even more satisfying.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy, colorful mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed in a tangy dressing offers a refreshing crunch that perfectly contrasts the crispy shrimp.
Coconut Sticky Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s spicy mayo, adding a tropical flair to your meal.
Crispy Lettuce Wraps: Serve the shrimp in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun and fresh way to enjoy them. Each bite adds a wonderful crunch while lightening the dish.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: The cool, crisp cucumbers drizzled with rice vinegar provide a refreshing counterpoint to the shrimp’s heat, making for a delightful, palate-cleansing side.
Sweet Potato Fries: A side of crispy sweet potato fries introduces a hint of sweetness and earthiness, creating a delicious contrast with the shrimp’s spicy profile.
Bubble Tea: Quench your thirst with a sweet bubble tea; the chewy tapioca pearls add a fun finishing touch to your meal, making it feel like a special occasion.
Lychee Sorbet: End the meal on a light note with a refreshing lychee sorbet. Its fruity sweetness and icy texture cleanse the palate after enjoying the crispy shrimp.

Embrace the joy of home-cooked dining with these delightful pairings that make every meal a feast!

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To retain its crunch, avoid coating it in sauce until ready to serve.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked Bang Bang Shrimp without the sauce in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a resealable bag and freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp soggy.

Serving Tip: Re-coat with the sweet chili mayo sauce just before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Bang Bang Shrimp and as you explore these delightful twists that bring something unique to your plate!

Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken breast for a different protein experience; just adjust cooking time.
Tofu Option: For a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute shrimp with firm tofu, pressing it to remove excess moisture for a better fry.
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne to the sauce or doubling down on the Sriracha. You can also add some chopped fresh jalapeños to your shrimp before frying!
Herbed Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the sauce for a refreshing flavor boost that complements the creaminess wonderfully.
Coconut Crunch: Mix shredded coconut with cornstarch for a tropical twist—this will add a lovely sweetness and texture to your crispy coating.
Pineapple Sweetness: Toss some grilled pineapple chunks with your shrimp and sauce for a tangy, sweet bite that brings the Hawaiian spirit to your dish.
Crispy Garlic Finish: Sprinkle fried garlic chips over the plated shrimp before serving for an extra layer of crunch and intense flavor.
Served with Noodles: Instead of tacos, serve your Bang Bang Shrimp over a bed of creamy coconut noodles for a delectable meal experience.

These variations are just the beginning! Don’t hesitate to try different serving styles or pairings. Perhaps experiment with some homemade dipping sauces to really elevate those delightful bites. Enjoy the journey of creating your perfect Bang Bang Shrimp!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that the flavors develop beautifully. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch and keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply heat oil to 350°F and fry the shrimp until golden brown—this method keeps them just as delicious and crispy as when freshly made. Toss with the sweet chili mayo sauce right before serving for a delightful, time-saving dish that impresses!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oil Temperature Matters: Maintain a steady oil temperature of 350°F for crispiness; use a thermometer to avoid greasy shrimp.

• Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pot! Fry shrimp in small batches to ensure even cooking and the perfect crunch.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the shrimp to marinate for a full 10 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderness, making your Bang Bang Shrimp truly unforgettable.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the Sriracha amount based on your heat preference; start with less and add more to taste.

• Serve Fresh: For the best texture, serve immediately after coating. If left too long, the crispy coating may soften.

Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What size shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
I recommend using large shrimp, specifically U31-40 size, as they provide the ideal balance of tender meat and juicy bites. The larger shrimp hold up well to frying and absorb the flavors of the marinade beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispy texture, I suggest keeping the shrimp and the sauce separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again. Just remember to reheat in the oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes for the best results!

Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked Bang Bang Shrimp for up to 1 month. To do this, arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. This approach helps preserve their crunchiness.

What can I do if my batter isn’t crispy?
If your Bang Bang Shrimp batter isn’t crispy, it could be due to the oil temperature being too low or frying too many shrimp at once, which cools the oil. To troubleshoot, make sure your oil is at 350°F before adding the shrimp. Fry in small batches so each piece gets the heat it needs for that perfect crunch!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you or your guests have shellfish allergies, it’s best to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu in this recipe. Also, if you’re mindful of calories, you can use a lighter mayonnaise or yogurt alternative in the sauce while still keeping it delicious. Always feel free to adjust the Sriracha to suit your guests’ spice preferences too!

What is the best way to reheat Bang Bang Shrimp?
To reheat Bang Bang Shrimp while retaining their crunch, preheat your oven to 400°F. Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer and heat for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make the shrimp soggy. Toss with the sweet chili mayo just before serving for the best flavor!