Bang Bang Shrimp

The infamous Bang Bang Shrimp is a crispy, juicy explosion of flavor—fried to golden perfection and tossed in a creamy-spicy sauce that packs just the right amount of kick. It’s the kind of dish that demands attention with every bite: bold, saucy, and downright addictive.

Whether you’re making it as a starter for guests or turning it into a main over a bed of greens or rice, this shrimp dish delivers serious flavor with minimal fuss. The crunch from the coating, the heat from the sriracha, and the sweetness of the chili sauce balance into a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to say. Ready to give your tastebuds a treat?

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 cup buttermilk

• 1 cup cornstarch

• 1/4 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp honey

• 1 tsp rice vinegar

For serving:

• Shredded lettuce or cabbage

• Sliced green onions

• Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions:

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with buttermilk. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).

4. Working in batches, remove shrimp from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, and dredge in the cornstarch mixture until well-coated.

5. Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.

6. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

7. In a separate bowl, whisk together all Bang Bang Sauce ingredients until smooth.

8. Toss the crispy shrimp in the sauce or drizzle over them just before serving.

9. Serve over a bed of shredded lettuce or cabbage, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Bang Bang Shrimp: A Delicious Fusion of Crispy, Spicy, and Sweet Flavors

Bang Bang Shrimp is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of food lovers everywhere. Known for its crispy texture, bold flavor, and creamy-spicy sauce, this shrimp dish is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course when served with a side of rice or greens. The appeal of Bang Bang Shrimp lies in its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch, all packed into a bite-sized morsel. In this article, we’ll delve into the origins of Bang Bang Shrimp, the key ingredients that make it so irresistible, variations you can try, and tips on how to make it at home for your family and friends.

The Origins of Bang Bang Shrimp

While the exact origins of Bang Bang Shrimp are a bit murky, it is widely believed to have been popularized by the restaurant chain Bonefish Grill in the early 2000s. Bonefish Grill, which is known for its seafood offerings, introduced this dish to their menu, and it quickly became a customer favorite. The dish features crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce, making it the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Since its introduction, Bang Bang Shrimp has gained such a devoted following that it has inspired countless variations and has been adopted by home cooks and other restaurants worldwide.

Despite its somewhat recent rise in popularity, the combination of fried seafood and creamy sauces has long been a staple in many culinary traditions. The use of chili sauces, mayonnaise, and sriracha reflects influences from Asian and fusion cuisines, which often incorporate bold, spicy flavors and creamy elements to create a balanced taste profile.

The Irresistible Appeal of Bang Bang Shrimp

What makes Bang Bang Shrimp so appealing is the contrast between the crispy, battered shrimp and the smooth, creamy sauce. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of rich, zesty flavor. The sauce itself is key to this dish’s allure. Made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and a dash of rice vinegar, it brings together the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. The addition of sriracha gives the dish its signature heat, while the honey softens the spice with a touch of sweetness, and the rice vinegar adds a layer of acidity to balance the richness of the mayo.

The crispy fried shrimp provide a satisfying texture, contrasting perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce. The high heat from frying helps to create a golden, crisp coating that locks in the shrimp’s natural juiciness, ensuring each piece is both crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. The rich sauce that coats each piece of shrimp adds an indulgent flavor that transforms this dish into something special.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic version of Bang Bang Shrimp is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some variations and ideas for tweaking the recipe to make it your own:

1. Different Sauces: If you’re looking for a different twist, you can swap out the sweet chili sauce for a more tangy or savory version. Try using a combination of soy sauce, hoisin, or even a touch of teriyaki sauce for a more umami-filled flavor profile. Adding a bit of lemon or lime juice to the sauce can give it a fresh, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

2. Crispier Coating: To achieve an even crispier shrimp, consider using panko breadcrumbs in addition to or instead of cornstarch. The light, airy texture of panko will give your shrimp an extra crunch. Alternatively, try adding grated parmesan cheese to the breading mixture for a cheesy twist.

3. Air Fryer Option: If you want to reduce the amount of oil in your dish, you can make Bang Bang Shrimp in an air fryer. This method still produces crispy shrimp without the need for deep-frying. Simply coat the shrimp in the batter and place them in the air fryer, cooking them until golden and crispy.

4. Vegetarian or Vegan Bang Bang “Shrimp”: For those who follow a plant-based diet, you can swap the shrimp for a plant-based protein, such as tofu, cauliflower florets, or even chickpea “shrimp.” Simply prepare the vegetables or protein in the same way as you would the shrimp, ensuring they’re crispy before tossing them in the sauce.

5. Adding a Garnish: While the shrimp is delicious on its own, it can also be dressed up with a garnish of sliced green onions, cilantro, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. These garnishes add color and freshness, making the dish even more visually appealing.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways depending on your occasion and preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp as a small plate or appetizer for your next dinner party. They’re perfect for sharing, and their crispy texture and bold flavor will be sure to impress your guests.

• Over Rice or Noodles: For a more substantial meal, you can serve the shrimp over a bed of steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. The creamy sauce will soak into the rice, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

• On Tacos: Turn your Bang Bang Shrimp into a taco filling by placing it inside soft tortillas. Add some shredded cabbage, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious and fun twist.

• In a Salad: Bang Bang Shrimp also works wonderfully as a topping for a salad. Toss it over mixed greens or a crunchy cabbage slaw for a light yet satisfying meal.

The Perfect Pairing: What to Drink with Bang Bang Shrimp

When it comes to pairing drinks with Bang Bang Shrimp, you want something that complements the spiciness and richness of the dish without overpowering it. Here are a few suggestions:

• White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the heat and creaminess of the shrimp. The acidity in these wines helps balance the richness of the sauce.

• Beer: A light lager or pilsner works beautifully with fried shrimp. If you’re looking for something a little bolder, try a pale ale, which has a touch of bitterness that complements the spiciness of the dish.

• Cocktails: A cocktail made with lime or citrus, such as a margarita or mojito, can be a refreshing choice to counterbalance the heat from the sriracha and sweet chili sauce. The bright flavors of these cocktails pair wonderfully with seafood.

Conclusion:

Bang Bang Shrimp is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. The crispy shrimp, paired with the creamy, spicy sauce, is a flavor combination that never gets old. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a weeknight treat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Not only is Bang Bang Shrimp delicious, but it’s also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the flavors, textures, and ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, over rice, or in tacos, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, it’s no surprise that Bang Bang Shrimp has become a go-to dish for seafood lovers and food enthusiasts alike. So the next time you’re craving something flavorful, crispy, and just a little bit spicy, give Bang Bang Shrimp a try  you won’t be disappointed!