Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish known for its crispy texture and creamy, spicy sauce. Originally made famous by Bonefish Grill, this appetizer has taken the culinary world by storm. With its perfect balance of crunch and flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser for parties, game nights, or even a quick dinner.
Why is it called Bang Bang Shrimp? The name comes from the explosive flavors packed in every bite, thanks to the signature sauce that combines sweet, spicy, and tangy elements.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making this iconic dish step-by-step, ensuring your shrimp turn out as irresistible as the restaurant version—or even better!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornstarch
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Signature Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
Essential Tools and Equipment
Before diving into cooking, make sure you have the right tools:
- Mixing bowls – For marinating and coating the shrimp.
- Whisk – To mix the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Tongs – For frying and flipping shrimp easily.
- Large skillet or deep fryer – For frying shrimp evenly.
- Paper towels – For draining excess oil after frying.
- Wire rack – Keeps shrimp crispy while cooling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precise ingredient portions.
Optional tools include:
- Air fryer – For a healthier, oil-free version.
- Food thermometer – To maintain accurate frying temperature.
Preparing the Shrimp
- Clean and Devein the Shrimp:
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water.
- Peel off the shells, leaving the tails intact for presentation (optional).
- Use a knife or shrimp deveiner to remove the vein along the back.
- Marinate in Buttermilk:
- Place the cleaned shrimp in a bowl.
- Pour buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Let them soak for at least 15–20 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and adds flavor.
- Season the Shrimp:
- Drain the shrimp from the buttermilk.
- Lightly season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
Making the Signature Bang Bang Sauce
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.
- Add honey for a touch of sweetness and vinegar for tanginess.
- Whisk Until Smooth:
- Whisk vigorously until all ingredients blend into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the spice level by adding more Sriracha if needed.
- If it’s too spicy, balance it with extra mayonnaise or honey.
- Chill the Sauce: Refrigerate the sauce while preparing the shrimp. This enhances the flavors as it rests.
Coating the Shrimp for Frying
- Prepare the Coating Mixture:
- Combine cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
- Mix in additional seasonings like garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor.
- Coat the Shrimp:
- Remove shrimp from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
- Toss the shrimp in the coating mixture until evenly coated.
- Double-Coating for Extra Crunch (Optional):
- For even crispier shrimp, dip coated shrimp back into buttermilk and repeat the breading process.
Frying the Shrimp to Perfection
- Heat the Oil:
- Fill a skillet or fryer with about 2 inches of vegetable oil.
- Heat it to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to maintain temperature accuracy.
- Fry in Batches:
- Fry shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower oil temperature and cause soggy shrimp.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried shrimp onto paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Tossing Shrimp in the Sauce
- Coat Evenly:
- Place fried shrimp in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared sauce over them and gently toss until each piece is coated.
- Add Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for added flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Shrimp is versatile and can be served in several ways:
- Appetizer Platter: Serve on a bed of lettuce with extra sauce for dipping.
- Tacos: Stuff shrimp into soft tortillas with cabbage slaw and lime wedges.
- Rice Bowl: Pair with steamed rice and vegetables for a filling meal.
- Salads: Top a salad with shrimp and drizzle with extra sauce as dressing.
Healthier Alternatives
While fried Bang Bang Shrimp is undeniably delicious, there are healthier alternatives that retain the flavor without all the oil:
1. Baking Method:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Coat the shrimp: Follow the same breading process, then arrange the shrimp on the sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. Air-Frying Method:
- Preheat the air fryer: Heat it to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the shrimp: Place breaded shrimp in the fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cook: Air-fry for 7–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
3. Lighter Sauce Alternatives:
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream.
- Use sugar-free sweet chili sauce and reduce the amount of Sriracha for a lower-calorie option.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing:
- Place leftover shrimp in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Store sauce separately to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Air Fryer: Heat for 5–7 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Stovetop: Lightly sauté in a nonstick pan until warm.
Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the coating soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking Shrimp:
Shrimp cook quickly—overcooking them results in a rubbery texture. Watch them closely and remove them from the fryer as soon as they turn golden brown.
2. Improper Oil Temperature:
Frying at a temperature too low can make the shrimp greasy, while too high can burn the coating. Use a thermometer to maintain the ideal frying temperature of 375°F (190°C).
3. Uneven Coating:
Ensure shrimp are well-drained before breading and fully submerged in the coating mixture. A second layer of breading can enhance the texture.
4. Overcrowding the Pan:
Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and to keep the oil temperature consistent.
Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp
1. Spicy Version:
- Add more Sriracha or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the shrimp before serving.
2. Sweet and Tangy:
- Increase the honey or add a tablespoon of pineapple juice to the sauce for a sweeter twist.
3. Vegetarian Bang Bang “Shrimp”:
- Substitute shrimp with cauliflower florets. Follow the same breading and cooking process for a plant-based version.
4. Gluten-Free Version:
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch for the coating. Ensure all sauces used are gluten-free.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 (depends on frying method) |
| Protein | ~18g |
| Carbohydrates | ~25g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods.
FAQs about Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
What ingredients do I need for Bang Bang Shrimp?
For this tantalizing dish, you’ll need shrimp, cornstarch, and oil for frying. The signature Bang Bang sauce is made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and sriracha.
How do I prepare Bang Bang Shrimp?
Start by coating the shrimp in cornstarch and frying until golden and crispy. Mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Once the shrimp are cooked, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated.
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate. Fry the shrimp and toss with the sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Is there a healthier version of Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, for a healthier version, you can bake the shrimp in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until crispy, about 10-12 minutes, instead of frying. Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise in the sauce for fewer calories.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of fresh greens for a delightful salad.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating with cornstarch for the best results.
How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp?
The spiciness can be adjusted by the amount of sriracha sauce added. Customize the heat level to suit your preference, making it as mild or fiery as you like.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp is an addictive combination of crispy fried shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce that leaves you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking to indulge in a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll master the art of making this iconic dish in no time.
Don’t forget to experiment with healthier options and creative variations to suit your taste. Once you try homemade Bang Bang Shrimp, there’s no going back!
