Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish known for its crispy fried shrimp coated in a slightly spicy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that’s great for appetizers or even a main course when you want something that feels indulgent but is still easy to make at home. This recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who loves shrimp with a little kick. Whether you’re serving it at a party or just for dinner, Bang Bang Shrimp is a crowd-pleaser!
| Servings | Total |
| 4 | 35mins |
History of Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp became famous in the U.S. thanks to restaurant chains like Bonefish Grill, where it was introduced as an appetizer. Its roots can be traced back to Asian cuisine, where shrimp dishes with creamy, spicy sauces are common. The “bang” refers to the burst of flavor from the sauce—a combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements that coat the shrimp after they’re fried to crispy perfection.
Why Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp is loved for its balance of textures and flavors. The shrimp is fried until golden and crispy, then tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s a dish that’s simple yet satisfying and can be customized to suit your taste by adjusting the spice level. Whether as an appetizer or part of a main dish, Bang Bang Shrimp stands out as a go-to when you want something special but easy to prepare.
What is Bang Bang Shrimp Made of?
Bang Bang Shrimp is made with a few simple ingredients:
- Shrimp: Medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- Cornstarch or flour: To coat the shrimp for a crispy exterior.
- Buttermilk: Helps the coating stick to the shrimp.
- Mayonnaise: The base for the creamy sauce.
- Sriracha or hot sauce: Add spice to the sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and mild heat.
- Green onions: For garnish and a fresh bite.
What to Have with Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp is super versatile and can be paired with:
- Rice: Serve over jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Tacos: Stuff the shrimp into soft tortillas for a shrimp taco twist.
- Salad: Add on top of a simple salad to lighten up the meal.
- Veggies: Pair with steamed or grilled vegetables for a healthier option.
Is Bang Bang Shrimp Healthy?
Bang Bang Shrimp is not the healthiest option due to its fried preparation and creamy sauce, which can be high in fat and calories. However, you can make it healthier by air-frying the shrimp instead of deep-frying and using a lighter version of the sauce, such as Greek yogurt mixed with the sauces instead of mayonnaise. Shrimp itself is a great source of lean protein, so with some tweaks, this dish can fit into a balanced diet.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large skillet or deep fryer: For frying the shrimp.
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the batter and sauce.
- Tongs: For handling the shrimp while frying.
- Paper towels: To drain excess oil from the shrimp after frying.
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or hot sauce)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the shrimp: In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for 15-20 minutes. This will help the coating stick.
- Coat the shrimp: In another bowl, combine the cornstarch (or flour) with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Fry the shrimp: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha.
- Toss the shrimp: Once the shrimp are fried, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Tips
- For extra crispy shrimp: Double-dip the shrimp in the buttermilk and cornstarch mixture before frying.
- Lighter version: Air-fry the shrimp at 200°C (400°F) for 8-10 minutes instead of frying in oil.
- Adjust spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to fry the shrimp.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp is an easy-to-make dish that brings bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. It’s perfect as an appetizer, a main dish with rice or tacos, or even on top of a salad. With a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home. Whether you keep it mild or turn up the heat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
MORE RECIPES
The Best Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or hot sauce)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for 15-20 minutes. This will help the coating stick.
- In another bowl, combine the cornstarch (or flour) with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha.
- Once the shrimp are fried, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.