As the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself yearning for something delicious to lift my spirits after a long day. That’s when I recalled the delightful, crispy and spicy Bang Bang Shrimp I had enjoyed at my favorite local restaurant. The incredible crunch paired with that sweet and spicy sauce had been a revelation—a dish so flavorful yet surprisingly easy to replicate at home. Inspired, I decided to create my own version, swapping out fast-food temptations for a satisfying, homemade treat.
With just a few simple ingredients like fresh shrimp and a quick homemade sauce, I was able to transform an ordinary evening into a culinary adventure. Get ready to indulge your taste buds—this crispy, spicy dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re looking for a tantalizing appetizer or a crowd-pleasing main course, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s get cooking and bring some joy back to the dinner table!
Why is Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Try?
Bold flavors: The pairing of sweet chili and sriracha in the bang bang sauce creates an irresistible tang that dances on your taste buds.
Crunchy perfection: Each shrimp is double-coated for that delightful crunch in every bite, making it impossible to resist.
Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish fits seamlessly into any busy weeknight dinner.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your friends and family at gatherings; this dish never fails to elicit compliments.
Versatile dish: Perfect as an appetizer, a main course, or even in tacos, it’s a great way to switch up your menu!
Elevate your kitchen prowess with this recipe—try adding a twist with different dipping sauces or toppings!
Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• 1 lb large shrimp – peeled and deveined shrimp are key to ensuring a tender bite.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch – this creates a light, crispy coating that enhances the crunch factor.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – flour adds structure to the coating for that perfect crunch.
• 1 tsp salt – essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the shrimp’s taste.
• 1 tsp black pepper – adds a lovely warmth that complements the spice of the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – infuses the shrimp with a hint of savory goodness.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder – enriches the flavor profile and rounds out the seasoning.
• Vegetable oil – for frying; use a high smoke point oil for the best results.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise – this creamy base helps to smooth out the sauce and add richness.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce – the star ingredient that gives that irresistible sweetness and heat.
• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce – adds the spicy kick to embody that crispy and spicy bang bang shrimp flavor.
• 1 tsp honey – a touch of sweetness to balance the heat and add depth to the sauce.
For Garnish
• 1 tbsp green onions – chopped, these add a fresh pop of color and flavor to your dish.
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds – sprinkle on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
How to Make Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp
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Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture will create a light yet crispy shell around your shrimp.
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Coat the Shrimp: Dredge the peeled and deveined shrimp in the flour mix, making sure every piece is evenly coated. This step ensures a delightful crunch with each bite.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough by testing with a small drop of batter; it should sizzle instantly.
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Fry the Shrimp: Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
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Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and honey to create your bang bang sauce. The blend of flavors will elevate your shrimp to new heights!
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Coat the Shrimp in Sauce: Transfer the crispy shrimp to a large bowl and gently toss them with the sauce until fully coated. Be sure to cover every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for an attractive finish before serving. This step adds not just flavor, but a pop of color to your dish.
Optional: Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover crispy and spicy Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. This preserves their crunchiness!
Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful crunch!
What to Serve with Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Transform your meal into a culinary delight by pairing this dish with irresistible accompaniments that enhance its bold flavors.
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Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and creamy base beautifully complements the spicy kick of the shrimp, providing a perfect balance. Each spoonful invites a tropical escape!
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Asian Slaw: A fresh, crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the shrimp’s crunchiness, enhancing your dining experience with a delightful textural play.
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Steamed Broccoli: This bright green veggie adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate. The mild flavor pairs well, allowing the shrimp’s spice to shine through.
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Wontons: Crispy or fried wontons make for a fun side to this dish, creating a texture harmony that echoes the shrimp’s crunch while offering a delightful filling.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy exterior provide a delicious contrast and add a fun twist to your meal, complementing the bang bang sauce.
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Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa brings a fruity flair and bright acidity that balances the shrimp’s richness, turning each bite into a burst of flavors.
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Lemonade: A zesty, refreshing drink like lemonade can elevate the meal, cleansing the palate between bites and enhancing the vibrant flavors of this dish.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, consider serving a light and refreshing mango sorbet. Its fruity sweetness is the perfect endnote to your spicy adventure.
Expert Tips for Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp
- Fresh Shrimp: Always use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work too; just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Proper Coating: Make sure to dredge the shrimp thoroughly in the coating mix. Skipping this step may result in soggy shrimp instead of that crispy and spicy bang bang shrimp you desire.
- Oil Temperature: Test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small bit of batter in—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go. Too cold oil leads to greasy shrimp, while too hot can burn them.
- Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; fry the shrimp in small batches. This ensures they cook evenly and stay crispy rather than steaming.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to fit your heat tolerance. Start with less if you’re uncertain, and taste before adding more!
Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these exciting twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy the same crispy texture without the gluten.
- Air-Fried: Use an air fryer for a lighter but equally crispy alternative; simply spray the shrimp with oil before cooking.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating mix for an extra kick that will make your taste buds dance.
- Coconut Crunch: Swap half the breadcrumbs for shredded coconut to add a tropical flair and a delightful chew.
- Zesty Sauce: Stir in lime juice or zest into the bang bang sauce for a refreshing, tangy contrast to the sweetness.
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley in the coating or as a garnish for added color and flavor complexity.
- Crispy Vegetables: Toss in some lightly battered and fried broccoli or bell peppers for a colorful veggie add-on that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Mango Salsa: Serve with a fresh mango salsa on the side for a sweet and spicy contrast that elevates the dish!
Embrace these variations to create a unique dining experience that reflects your tastes and preferences!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the shrimp (step 2) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. For the bang bang sauce, prepare it ahead of time and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its fresh flavor. On the day you plan to serve, simply fry the shrimp as directed (step 4) until they are golden brown, then toss them in the sauce (step 6). This method not only saves you time but ensures your shrimp stay just as delicious and crispy. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large, fresh shrimp that is firm to the touch with a mild sea-like smell. Opt for shrimp that is bright in color and has no dark spots or signs of freezer burn. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve the best texture.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
You can store leftover crispy and spicy Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container placed in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the shrimp is completely cooled before sealing—this helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain that crispy texture.
Can I freeze Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze, first, lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
What if my shrimp aren’t crispy after frying?
Very! If your shrimp lack that crunch, it could be due to a few factors. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp—too cool and they will absorb excess oil, resulting in sogginess. Also, dredge the shrimp well in the coating mixture. If you find them soggy after cooking, try frying in smaller batches to prevent steaming.
Is this dish suitable for individuals with seafood allergies?
No, this recipe is not safe for anyone with seafood allergies since shrimp is its main ingredient. However, for a similar texture, you could substitute shrimp with chicken tenders or cauliflower florets for a delightful twist, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ!
Can I make the Bang Bang sauce spicier?
Yes! The more the merrier when it comes to spice! Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to match your heat preference. Start with 2 tablespoons, try a taste test, and add more if you like it hotter. You could even incorporate diced fresh chilies for an extra kick!
Crispy and Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dredge the shrimp in the flour mix until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a deep skillet.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey.
- Transfer fried shrimp to a bowl, drizzle with sauce, and toss to coat.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.