Bang Bang Shrimp

Short Description

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delectable appetizer featuring crispy fried shrimp enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce. This dish, popularized by Bonefish Grill, combines the crunch of perfectly fried shrimp with the bold flavors of a sweet and spicy mayonnaise-based sauce, making it a favorite for seafood enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings.
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and mayonnaise creates a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or even in tacos or over salads.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your preference by modifying the amount of sriracha.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1–2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped green onions
• Lettuce leaves, for serving

Directions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl with the buttermilk. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes to tenderize.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha to taste.
3. Coat the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in cornstarch, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375°F (190°C). Fry the shrimp in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Toss in Sauce: While the shrimp are still warm, place them in a bowl and toss with the prepared Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
6. Serve: Arrange the coated shrimp on a platter lined with lettuce leaves and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the coated shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
• Air-Fried Shrimp: Use an air fryer set to 400°F (200°C) and cook the shrimp for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Bang Bang Chicken: Substitute shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces for a poultry variation.
• Vegetarian Option: Use cauliflower florets in place of shrimp for a vegetarian twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the shrimp in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the shrimp soggy.

FAQs

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish consisting of crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It’s known for its delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp ahead of time?

While the sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, it’s best to fry the shrimp just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

Is there a non-spicy version of Bang Bang Shrimp?

Yes, you can reduce or omit the sriracha in the sauce to make it milder. Alternatively, use a sweet chili sauce with less heat.

What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Medium-sized shrimp (about 31–40 count per pound) are ideal. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off during frying?

Ensure the shrimp are well-drained after marinating and that excess cornstarch is shaken off before frying. Also, maintain the oil at the correct temperature to achieve a crispy coating.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. It also makes a great filling for tacos or wraps.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil, is suitable for frying.

How do I store leftover Bang Bang sauce?

Store any unused sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Simply double the ingredients, but fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the satisfying crunch of fried shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or incorporated into other dishes like tacos or salads, it offers a delightful culinary experience that’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a recipe worth adding to your repertoire.

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