Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that combines crispy shrimp with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or a special occasion, this recipe stands out with its homemade chili sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how quickly it disappears from the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade chili sauce adds a delightful kick that perfectly complements the shrimp.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or even over rice for a complete meal.
• Crispy Texture: The frying process ensures each piece of shrimp is wonderfully crispy and crunchy.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness to your liking by varying the amount of sambal oelek and sriracha.

Tools and Preparation

To make Bang Bang Shrimp, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Heavy skillet or Dutch oven
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Ziploc bag
• Paper towels

Why These Tools Matter

• Heavy skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for frying the shrimp evenly and maintaining consistent heat.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for preparing the delicious chili sauce without mess.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without hassle.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Then add rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, sambal oelek, and sriracha. Cook for 1–2 minutes while stirring several times.

Step 2: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together 2 teaspoons of cornstarch and water; stir this mixture into the saucepan. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Cover and remove from heat; let cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Mayonnaise Mixture

In another small bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, and the cooled chili sauce. Season with kosher salt to taste and set aside.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Dry the shrimp using paper towels. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable or canola oil to 375 degrees in your heavy skillet or Dutch oven. Place ½ cup cornstarch in a large Ziploc bag. Add shrimp to coat them thoroughly with cornstarch. Working in small batches, add the shrimp to hot oil and cook until lightly browned—about 1–1½ minutes per side. Remove them to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Toss with Sauce

Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the prepared sauce. Top with thinly sliced green onions and sprinkle crushed red pepper on top if desired. Serve immediately!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Course

• Serve the Bang Bang shrimp over a bed of steamed rice for a hearty and filling dish.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the flavors and add a nutritious touch.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create delicious shrimp tacos. Top with cabbage slaw and extra chili sauce for crunch and spice.

On Skewers

• Thread cooked shrimp onto skewers for an easy-to-eat appetizer. Serve with dipping sauce on the side.

With Noodles

• Toss the shrimp with cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a satisfying noodle dish that’s packed with flavor.

Over Grits

• Serve the Bang Bang shrimp over creamy grits for a Southern twist that’s both comforting and indulgent.

As an Appetizer

• Present the shrimp as an appetizer at gatherings. Serve with toothpicks and the sauce for dipping to keep it fun and interactive.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

Perfecting your Bang Bang shrimp is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delightful every time.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or well-thawed shrimp will provide the best texture and flavor.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 375 degrees F before frying; this creates crispy, golden-brown shrimp.
• Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Patting the shrimp dry before coating ensures better adhesion of the cornstarch and prevents sogginess.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less sambal oelek or sriracha according to your preference.
• Garnish Generously: Use plenty of green onions and red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang shrimp can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly fragrant rice that complements the spicy flavors of the shrimp beautifully.
2. Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: A crunchy appetizer that adds variety to your meal while maintaining an Asian theme.
3. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli tossed in garlic offers a healthy complement that balances richness.
4. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice provides a refreshing contrast to spicy shrimp.
5. Asian Slaw: A colorful mix of veggies dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds crunch and zest.
6. Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-infused rice pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the shrimp, creating harmony on your plate.
7. Quinoa Salad: Nutritious quinoa mixed with tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs makes for a light yet filling side.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter enhances any summer gathering with its sweetness.

Enjoy crafting your perfect meal around this delightful Bang Bang shrimp recipe!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid to ensure your shrimp turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to dry the shrimp before frying can result in a soggy coating. Use paper towels to pat them dry for better crispiness.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for consistent results.
• Not Monitoring Oil Temperature: Cooking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt shrimp. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 375°F for optimal frying.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your shrimp can make them bland. Don’t skip adding kosher salt and spices as you prepare your ingredients.
• Using Cold Sauce: Serving cold sauce with hot shrimp can make the dish less appealing. Allow the sauce to sit at room temperature while frying for better flavor integration.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, and use within 1-2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but be cautious as this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil; sauté the shrimp until warmed, which helps retain crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish featuring crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s known for its sweet and spicy flavor profile.

How do I make Bang Bang Shrimp sauce?

To make the sauce, combine mayonnaise, honey, and homemade chili sauce made from garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, sambal oelek, and sriracha.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Yes! Chicken can be used as an alternative. Simply follow the same preparation steps while ensuring it is fully cooked before serving.

What sides pair well with Bang Bang Shrimp?

Serve with rice or a fresh salad for balance. These sides complement the rich flavors of the shrimp beautifully.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Shrimp?

Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding more or less sambal oelek or sriracha. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added texture.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp is an enticing dish that combines crunchy textures with bold flavors. Its versatility allows for various modifications based on personal preferences. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and experiment with different proteins or spice levels to create your perfect version!

---