If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible crunch, you’ve just found your new favorite with this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of crispy, tender shrimp enveloped in a luscious, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself on any day, this recipe turns simple shrimp into an extraordinary appetizer or main course that’s sure to steal the show at your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe plays a key role, from the seasoning that elevates the shrimp’s natural sweetness to the crunchy panko that gives it that signature texture. The sauce balances creaminess with a spicy kick, making this dish simply unforgettable.
- 1 lb. shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed): Fresh shrimp are essential for that tender, juicy bite.
- ½ tsp Salt: Enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor perfectly.
- ½ Black pepper powder: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a light coating for the shrimp to help the crunch stick.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: The secret to that amazing crispy exterior.
- 1 Tbsp old bay seasoning: Infuses the panko with a classic, savory flavor.
- 1 large egg (beaten): Binds the flour and crumbs to the shrimp for extra crunch.
- Oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil that can reach high temperatures for perfect frying.
- Cilantro (chopped for garnishing): Adds freshness and bright color to finish the dish.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the iconic bang bang sauce.
- 1 Tbsp sriracha: Brings the essential spicy heat to the sauce.
- 2 Tbsp sweet chili sauce: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness and tang.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season Your Shrimp
Start by seasoning your shrimp with salt and black pepper. This simple step peppers in flavor and makes sure that every bite is seasoned right from the start. Don’t rush this part—treat your shrimp well, and they’ll reward you.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating Stations
Set up three separate bowls with flour, beaten egg, and panko mixed with Old Bay seasoning. This classic dredging method is the cornerstone of achieving that perfectly crunchy texture. The Old Bay in the panko adds a delightful complexity you won’t want to skip.
Step 3: Double Coat for Ultimate Crunch
Take one shrimp at a time and dip it into the flour, shaking off the excess, then immerse it in egg, and finally coat it in the seasoned panko. For an extra crispy outer layer, repeat the process, giving each shrimp a second coat. This double layer is what makes your Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe stand out in crunchiness.
Step 4: Let the Coated Shrimp Rest
Allow the shrimp to rest for about 5 minutes after coating. This pause helps the layers set and prevents the breading from falling off during frying, ensuring every shrimp stays perfectly crispy.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a pan to 375 F and fry about 9 to 10 shrimp at a time. Cook them on medium heat until they are golden brown and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes. Be mindful not to overcook—the shrimp should be tender and juicy inside, not tough or chewy.
Step 6: Drain Excess Oil
Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil. This simple step is key to maintaining that light crunchiness without greasiness.
Step 7: Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce in a bowl. This signature sauce is creamy, spicy, and just sweet enough to perfectly complement the crunchy shrimp.
Step 8: Toss and Garnish
Either toss the shrimp in the sauce for an all-over coating or serve the sauce on the side to dip. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro to brighten every bite. Your Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is ready to wow!
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like cilantro gives the dish a lively pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the rich, spicy sauce. A squeeze of lime juice can add a zesty brightness that lifts the flavors beautifully too.
Side Dishes
This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides such as steamed jasmine rice, crispy green beans, or a cool cucumber salad. These sides offer a nice contrast that balances the heat and crunch of the shrimp without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Bang Bang Shrimp atop a fresh lettuce cup for a hand-held treat or use them as a topping on a crunchy Asian slaw. They also make an incredible filling for spicy shrimp tacos with a creamy slaw and avocado slices—options as vibrant and delicious as the shrimp itself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the sauce separate to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy, so you can reheat and drizzle just before serving for maximum crunch.
Freezing
Because this recipe shines brightest when freshly fried, freezing cooked Bang Bang Shrimp is not ideal. However, you can freeze the seasoned shrimp before frying. Freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a bag—fry straight from frozen for a quick snack.
Reheating
To reheat and keep the crunch, warm the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350 F on a wire rack over a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will turn them rubbery and soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour and regular panko for gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The result will still be crisp and just as delicious.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Large, peeled and deveined shrimp work best because they hold up well during frying and provide the perfect bite size for double coating.
How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The sauce has a moderate level of heat coming from the sriracha; however, you can adjust the spice by adding more or less sriracha or even mixing in some honey for extra sweetness.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the shrimp as instructed, place on a greased baking sheet, and bake at 400 F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Is this recipe suitable for a party appetizer?
Definitely! Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is always a crowd-pleaser and can be easily doubled or tripled for larger groups.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe that’s fun, flavorful, and simply unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish promises crunchy, saucy, and spicy shrimp perfection every time. Dive in and enjoy the magic of making restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp right in your own kitchen. I’m sure it will become a beloved go-to for you just like it is for me!
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Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bang Bang Shrimp is a crispy, flavorful appetizer featuring shrimp double-coated in seasoned flour and panko breadcrumbs, deep-fried to golden perfection and tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce made with mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce. Garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish is perfect for sharing or as a tantalizing starter.
Ingredients
Shrimp Preparation
- 1 lb. shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper powder
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 Tbsp Old Bay seasoning
For Frying
- Oil (for frying, about 2 to 2 ½ inches deep)
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp sriracha
- 2 Tbsp sweet chili sauce
Garnish
- Cilantro (chopped for garnishing)
Instructions
- Season the shrimp: In a large bowl, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper powder, ensuring they are evenly coated for flavor.
- Prepare the coating stations: Set up three separate bowls with all-purpose flour, beaten egg, and panko bread crumbs mixed with 1 Tbsp Old Bay seasoning to infuse extra flavor into the breading.
- Coat the shrimp: Working one shrimp at a time, first dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten egg, and lastly coat it thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Repeat the entire coating process a second time for an extra crunchy crust.
- Rest the shrimp: After all shrimp are double-coated, allow them to rest for 5 minutes to help the coating set and adhere better during frying.
- Heat oil for frying: Fill a pan with oil about 2 to 2 ½ inches deep and heat it to 375°F (190°C) on medium flame, preparing it for deep-frying the shrimp.
- Fry the shrimp: Carefully place 9-10 pieces of shrimp into the hot oil, frying them until they are crisp, golden, and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery or chewy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried shrimp from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil for a less greasy finish.
- Prepare bang bang sauce: In a bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp sriracha, and 2 Tbsp sweet chili sauce, mixing well to create the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce.
- Serve: Garnish the hot, crispy shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro and either serve the bang bang sauce on the side or toss the shrimp in the sauce gently to coat evenly before serving.
Notes
- Double coating the shrimp ensures an extra crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Maintain the oil temperature at around 375°F to avoid greasy shrimp and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while frying; fry shrimp in batches for best results.
- The dish is best served immediately for maximum crispness.
