Ah, Bang Bang Shrimp! Just saying the name makes my taste buds tingle and my heart skip a beat. This dish perfectly marries the crispy crunch of fried shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce that I can’t resist. The first time I had Bang Bang Shrimp was at a little seafood joint while on vacation, and I remember it like it was yesterday. I couldn’t stop savoring the balance of flavors and textures; it was love at first bite. Ever since, I’ve been trying to recreate that magic in my own kitchen, and let me tell you, it never fails to impress!
Now, this recipe isn’t just about the deliciousness; it’s incredibly easy to whip up for your friends and family, or even just for yourself on a cozy night in. Whether you plan to serve these as an appetizer or as the star of the main course, trust me, they’ll have everyone begging for seconds! So, let’s dive into the delicious world of Bang Bang Shrimp!
What’s in Bang Bang Shrimp?
Shrimp: The star of our dish! Fresh or frozen, they should be peeled and deveined. I love using large shrimp for that juicy bite, but medium works just fine too!
Flour: A key player in creating that crispy coating. All-purpose flour will do the trick perfectly. If you’d like a healthier option, you can try whole wheat flour.
Cornstarch: This ingredient gives the shrimp that extra crunch! It’s my secret weapon when it comes to achieving ultimate crispiness.
Spices: A mix of salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne can add some fantastic flavor to the coating. Adjust these according to your spice level preference!
Mayonnaise: The base of our creamy sauce. It adds a richness that beautifully balances the shrimp’s crispiness.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds that signature sweetness and a hint of heat that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
Sriracha: For those of us who enjoy a bit of a kick! Add more or less according to your taste for spice.
Is Bang Bang Shrimp Good for You?
Well, that depends on how you look at it! While Bang Bang Shrimp is definitely a treat, it does have some nutritional considerations.
Shrimp: Packed with protein and low in calories, shrimp is a heart-healthy option. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain.
Mayonnaise: While it adds creaminess and flavor, it’s important to be mindful of the calories here. Using light mayonnaise can cut down on the calories.
On the flip side, the frying process adds extra calories and fat. You could always opt for baking or air frying for a healthier alternative. Moderation is key, but let’s be honest—sometimes, we’ve just gotta live a little!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 4 servings)
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon paprika or cayenne (optional)
– Oil for frying (I prefer vegetable oil)
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
– 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (to taste)
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp?
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika/cayenne if using. Mix well to combine.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that crunch we all love!
3. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, coating them evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
4. In a deep frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully add the shrimp in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
5. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until well combined.
7. Toss the crispy shrimp in the sauce until they are generously coated.
8. Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp on a plate, garnished with chopped green onions, and get ready for the flavor explosion!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to mix things up! If you want to bulk it up, serve the Bang Bang Shrimp over a bed of rice or crispy lettuce. Swap out the mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed sauce! You could even throw in some chopped scallions or sesame seeds for a little extra flair.
And here’s a little secret: these bad boys make for a fantastic topping on tacos! Just add some shredded cabbage and avocado for a delicious twist.
I really hope you give this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe a try! I promise it will become a staple in your kitchen. Let me know how it goes and if you make any tasty changes—I love hearing about your culinary adventures! Enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite!
