Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp: Effortless Restaurant-Style Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Shrimp (U31-40) (Essential building block; choose for perfect bite-size nuggets.); 0.5 cup Buttermilk (Acts as a tenderizer; milk with lemon juice works if needed.); 0.25 teaspoon Salt (Enhances natural flavors of shrimp.); 0.25 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Adds savory depth to the dish.); 0.25 teaspoon Onion Powder (Complements garlic and enhances flavor.); 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (Offers mild heat to the dish.); 0.75 cup Cornstarch (Creates crispy texture.); 0.25 cup High-Quality Mayonnaise (Provides richness; Kewpie preferred.); 1.5 tablespoons Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (Adds sweetness and slight heat.); 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha Hot Sauce (Adjust for spice level.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzling sound of shrimp frying filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite restaurant. Here, I was about to whip up my very own Homemade Bang Bang Shrimp, a dish that perfectly captures that blissful crunch paired with a creamy, spicy sauce. What makes this recipe truly special is how quickly it comes together—just 25 minutes from prep to plate! Not only is it a culinary triumph that’s easy to achieve, but it also doubles as a showstopper, whether as an impressive appetizer or a delightful main course served over rice or nestled in tacos. Are you ready to bring the flavors of a beloved diner-style favorite right to your home? Let’s dive into this irresistible dish together!

Why Is Bang Bang Shrimp So Popular?

Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Crispy Texture: The cornstarch coating ensures a light and crispy bite, rivaling any restaurant’s version.

Flavorful Sauce: The irresistible blend of creamy mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili, and Sriracha creates a sauce that’s simply unforgettable.

Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, in tacos, or over rice for an exciting meal any time! Want to try something different? Check out Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp for a unique twist!

Homemade Satisfaction: There’s nothing like whipping up a restaurant favorite in your own kitchen. This Bang Bang Shrimp not only tastes incredible but gives you the joy of creating something delicious from scratch!

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

• Dive into the flavors of homemade Bang Bang Shrimp with this delightful selection!

For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp (1 pound) – The essential building block of this dish; choose U31-40 for perfect bite-size nuggets.
• Buttermilk (½ cup) – This acts as a tenderizer and provides a wet base; milk with lemon juice works too if you’re in a pinch.

For the Seasoning
• Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances the natural flavors of shrimp; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Garlic Powder (¼ teaspoon) – Adds a savory depth that elevates the whole dish.
• Onion Powder (¼ teaspoon) – This complements the garlic perfectly and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Offers a mild heat that enriches the flavor.

For the Coating
• Cornstarch (¾ cup) – Creates that sought-after crispy texture; it’s lighter than flour, ensuring the perfect crunch.

For the Bang Bang Sauce
• High-Quality Mayonnaise (¼ cup) – This provides a rich creaminess to the sauce; Kewpie is a fantastic choice for the best taste.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (1 ½ tablespoons) – Brings a lovely sweetness and slight heat to the mix.
• Sriracha Hot Sauce (1-2 teaspoons) – Adjust the spice level to your liking for an extra kick!

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from creating a scrumptious plate of Bang Bang Shrimp that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine 1 pound of large shrimp with ½ cup of buttermilk, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well to ensure the shrimp are coated thoroughly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld while tenderizing the shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp marinate, pour ¾ cup of cornstarch into a shallow dish. Once the shrimp are ready, lift them from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in cornstarch, making sure to coat it evenly, then shake off any excess cornstarch before setting them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pot, pour in enough oil to reach a depth of about 1½ inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature. This hot oil is crucial for achieving that deliciously crispy texture inherent to Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the shrimp for about 2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for proper doneness, then let them rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a large bowl, combine ¼ cup of high-quality mayonnaise, 1½ tablespoons of Thai sweet chili sauce, and 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha, depending on your desired spice level. Whisk together until the sauce is smooth and well-blended. This creamy, spicy sauce will be the perfect complement to your crispy Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 6: Toss and Serve
Add the freshly fried shrimp into the bowl with the Bang Bang sauce. Gently toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with the sauce, ensuring each piece is covered in that deliciously spicy mayo blend. Serve immediately for the best texture, and enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp as a delightful appetizer or over rice!

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity by customizing your Bang Bang Shrimp with these fun and delicious variations!

Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk for a plant-based milk blended with lemon juice to maintain that tenderizing effect without dairy.
Try making it with oat milk for a creamy alternative that’s perfect for dairy-sensitive palates.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of Sriracha or add chopped fresh jalapeños to the sauce for an extra zing.
This not only ups the heat but can invigorate the dish with a fresh burst of flavor.
Breaded Delight: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of cornstarch for an even crunchier coating.
Panko adds a unique texture, giving your Bang Bang Shrimp an exciting twist that’s sure to impress!
Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with hearty tofu or tempeh for a plant-based rendition.
Marinate the tofu in the same seasonings, coat, and fry for a satisfying and flavorful alternative!
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a squeeze of lime or lemon juice into the sauce for a refreshing citrus note.
This elevates the dish, making it a great choice for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers!
Asian Flair: Swap the regular mayonnaise for a sesame-based mayo to introduce nutty flavors.
It pairs beautifully with the chili sauce, transforming your Bang Bang Shrimp into a fusion favorite.
Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, replace cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend.
This keeps the coating light and crispy while accommodating dietary needs!

For more exciting seafood flavors, don’t forget to check out the delightful Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp or the zesty Dynamite Shrimp Appetizer for a fantastic twist on classic shrimp dishes!

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 will remain delightful, the crispy coating may soften.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Best Enjoyed Fresh: For the ultimate experience, savor your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp as soon as it’s prepared, allowing you to relish that delicious crunch!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Bang Bang Shrimp are ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying, ensuring maximum crispiness when cooked. For the Bang Bang sauce, feel free to prepare it up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply fry the marinated shrimp until golden and toss them in the cold sauce for an effortlessly delicious experience that’s just as satisfying as fresh!

What to Serve with Homemade Bang Bang Shrimp?

A crunchy and creamy dish like this deserves some tasty companions to create a complete meal experience.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice balances the spicy shrimp perfectly, providing a soothing base that absorbs the delicious sauce.
Zesty Cabbage Slaw: Crisp and fresh, a tangy cabbage slaw adds a delightful crunch and brightness, enhancing the dish’s flavors and textures.
Garlic Bread: The rich and toasty garlic bread serves as a perfect vehicle for scooping up shrimp, making every bite a little taste of heaven.
Spicy Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado mixed with spices brings a cooling contrast to the shrimp’s heat, creating a vibrant pop of flavor.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, this dish provides a flavorful foundation that complements the shrimp’s bold flavors.
Chilled Chardonnay: The crisp acidity of a chilled Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich, spicy sauce, enhancing your dining experience.
Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a decadent note! The warm, gooey chocolate will be the perfect sweet contrast to the savory shrimp.

With these lovely accompaniments, your Homemade Bang Bang Shrimp will shine even brighter on the dining table!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to fry shrimp in batches; overcrowding the pot can lead to soggy shrimp and uneven cooking.
Dry Before Dredging: Pat the shrimp dry before coating them in cornstarch. This ensures a perfect, crispy Bang Bang Shrimp texture.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature; too hot can burn the batter, while too cool can make it greasy.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality mayonnaise like Kewpie for the sauce; it greatly enhances the flavor of your Bang Bang Shrimp!
Experiment with Spice: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce based on your spice preference to suit your taste buds.

Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using large shrimp (U31-40 size) for the best bite-sized portions. When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm, plump, and have a mild sea smell. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong odor, as these may not be fresh.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
For the refrigerator, store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The flavor will remain delightful, but be mindful that the crispy coating may lose some of its crunch over time. If you want to enjoy the shrimp at a later date, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very! To freeze, allow the cooked Bang Bang Shrimp to cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer the shrimp to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture.

What if my coating isn’t crispy?
No worries! If your coating doesn’t turn out crispy, it could be due to overcrowding the pot while frying, which can trap steam and make the shrimp soggy. Make sure to fry them in small batches. Additionally, ensure that the oil temperature stays around 350°F (175°C) as this is essential for achieving that perfect crunch. If the oil is too cool, the coating will absorb excess oil and become greasy.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
While this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe includes shrimp, mayonnaise, and sauces that contain common allergens, such as seafood, eggs, and possible gluten, it can be easily modified for various diets. You may substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu and opt for vegan mayonnaise to make it plant-based. Always ensure to check ingredient labels, especially for store-bought sauces, to account for allergies or dietary restrictions.