Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. This recipe features crispy shrimp enveloped in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. With its delightful crunch and bold flavors, this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of cook time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet and spicy elements makes every bite an explosion of taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, this dish fits any dining occasion.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own chili sauce adds a special touch that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Heavy skillet or Dutch oven
• Small saucepan
• Large Ziploc bag
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Paper towels

Why These Tools Matter

• Heavy skillet or Dutch oven: Provides even heating for frying, ensuring perfectly cooked shrimp.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for making the homemade chili sauce without cluttering your workspace.
• Large Ziploc bag: Makes coating the shrimp with cornstarch mess-free and efficient.

Ingredients

Delicious, crispy, crunchy fried shrimp smothered in a creamy, sweet, and spicy chili sauce. In this recipe, we make our own chili sauce, giving this Bang Bang shrimp recipe an extra kick of homemade goodness.

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large clove garlic minced
• 1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons sambal oelek
• 1 teaspoon sriracha
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon honey
• kosher salt (to taste)

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb. shrimp peeled (deveined and tails removed dried)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• vegetable or canola oil for frying
• 1 green onion thinly sliced
• red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Sauce

Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat.
1. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
2. Incorporate rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, sambal oelek, and sriracha. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring several times until combined.

Step 2: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with water.
2. Stir this mixture into the saucepan with other ingredients.
3. Simmer for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Cover and remove from heat; let it cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In another small bowl:
1. Combine mayonnaise, honey, and cooled chili sauce.
2. Season with kosher salt to taste; set aside.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Dry the shrimp using paper towels.
1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable or canola oil to 375 degrees in your skillet or Dutch oven.
2. Place ½ cup cornstarch in a large Ziploc bag; add shrimp and shake to coat evenly.
3. Working in small batches, carefully add shrimp to hot oil.
4. Cook until lightly browned (approximately 1-1½ minutes per side), flipping halfway through.
5. Remove cooked shrimp onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the sauce until evenly coated.
Top with thinly sliced scallions and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper if desired. Serve immediately for best results!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways, making it a versatile option for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family night, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the shrimp on skewers for easy eating and an appealing presentation.
• Pair with toothpicks for a fun and casual finger food option at gatherings.

Over Rice

• Place the shrimp over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra sauce on top to enhance the flavors and keep everything moist.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create Bang Bang Shrimp tacos, topped with fresh avocado and cilantro.
• Add a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

With Salad

• Serve on a crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
• Toss with the leftover sauce as a zesty dressing.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a seafood platter by combining Bang Bang Shrimp with other proteins like grilled chicken or fish.
• Include dipping sauces in small bowls for variety.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

Making the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have better texture and flavor compared to frozen. Look for shrimp that smell clean and ocean-like.
• Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil is hot (around 375 degrees) before frying. This helps achieve that crispy coating without making the shrimp greasy.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve evenly cooked shrimp.
• Drain Properly: After frying, let the shrimp drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping them crispy.
• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or spiciness of your sauce based on personal preference; add more honey or sriracha as desired.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishing with green onions or red pepper flakes; they add flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp

Pairing sides with Bang Bang Shrimp can make for a well-rounded meal. Consider these delicious options to complement your dish perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Adds vibrant color and nutrients; simply steam until tender-crisp.
2. Coconut Rice: A subtly sweet side that pairs well with the spicy shrimp; cook rice with coconut milk for added flavor.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness; toss shredded cabbage with a tangy dressing.
4. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that balances the richness of the shrimp; mix quinoa with diced veggies and lemon juice.
5. Garlic Noodles: Flavorful noodles tossed in garlic butter make a satisfying accompaniment; serve warm alongside the shrimp.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; brush with butter and sprinkle with salt before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the shrimp thoroughly can lead to soggy coating. Always pat them dry with paper towels before breading.
• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce can overpower the dish with saltiness. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for balanced flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy shrimp. Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.
• Neglecting to Cool the Sauce: Adding hot sauce directly to mayonnaise can cause it to separate. Allow the chili sauce to cool before mixing.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Everyone’s palate is different. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• To maintain crispiness, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and reheat shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish featuring crispy fried shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy chili sauce, known for its creamy texture and flavorful kick.

How do I make homemade Bang Bang Shrimp sauce?

To make homemade sauce, combine mayonnaise, honey, and a mixture of chili paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and spices until well blended and seasoned to taste.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Yes! This recipe works wonderfully with chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

You can bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of frying them in oil. This method reduces calories while still delivering delicious flavor.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adjusting spice levels or swapping proteins based on your preference. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love its creamy, crunchy goodness!

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