Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that will wow your family and friends, then you’ve come to the right place! My Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp is not only super delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Imagine crispy, tender shrimp coated in a creamy, tangy sauce that has just the right kick of heat. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or any gathering where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those crowd-pleasers that I can always count on. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively get-together with friends, this dish brings everyone together. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes! Let’s dive into why this recipe is going to become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have this scrumptious dish on the table.
• Crispy and satisfying: The shrimp are perfectly fried to golden brown goodness—every bite is so satisfying!
• Family-friendly flavor: Even picky eaters will love the creamy, sweet chili mayo sauce.
• Versatile serving options: Great as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main meal when served over rice.
• Make-ahead potential: You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, making weeknight meals a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish. You might already have many of these in your pantry!

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup whole milk and 1 tbsp lemon juice, letting it sit for 5 minutes first)
• 3/4 cup cornstarch (or substitute with potato starch/tapioca starch)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 green onion (finely chopped for garnish)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise (or substitute with normal mayo)
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha (add more if you like it spicier)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the sriracha or skip it altogether.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli while frying for added nutrition and color.
• Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free cornstarch or potato starch to keep things safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

How to Make Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Tenderize the Shrimp

In a medium bowl with your peeled and deveined shrimp, add buttermilk. This step is crucial as letting the shrimp sit in buttermilk for 10 minutes helps tenderize them. The result? Juicy shrimp that are simply irresistible!

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all your Bang Bang Sauce ingredients as listed above and set them aside. Mixing this up early allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you prepare your shrimp.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

In a shallow bowl or baking sheet, whisk together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Dredge each piece of shrimp in this mixture thoroughly on both sides. This coating will give that delightful crunch we all love!

Step 4: Frying Time!

In a large skillet (10-inch) or heavy-bottom pan, heat your vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches around 350 degrees F. Fry your shrimp in batches for about 1.5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remember not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures each shrimp gets that perfect crispiness!

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Once fried, remove your succulent shrimp from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This keeps them crispy before tossing them with that heavenly sauce.

Step 6: Toss and Garnish

Transfer your crispy shrimp to a large bowl and pour the prepared sauce over them. Gently toss everything together until each piece is coated in that deliciousness! Finally, garnish with finely chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor.

And there you have it—your very own Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Creating the best Bang Bang Shrimp is all about the details, and these tips will help you achieve crispy perfection every time!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture, which makes them crisp up beautifully when fried.
• Don’t skip the buttermilk: Marinating the shrimp in buttermilk tenderizes them and adds flavor. If you’re using the milk and lemon juice alternative, make sure to let it sit for at least 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature (around 350°F) ensures that your shrimp fry evenly and develop that gorgeous golden-brown color without becoming greasy.
• Work in batches: Frying shrimp in smaller batches prevents overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature. This way, each shrimp gets the crispy coating it deserves!
• Toss gently with sauce: When combining your crispy shrimp with the sauce, toss gently to avoid breaking them apart. You want to coat them without losing that delightful crunch.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Serving up your Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp in an appealing way can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fun ideas to make this dish shine on your table!

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime just before eating enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch, making your dish even more visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet rice pairs beautifully with spicy dishes, providing a comforting base that complements the flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the richness of the shrimp.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is an excellent choice for adding color and nutrients while keeping things simple and healthy.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing can provide a nutritious side that balances out your meal wonderfully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, store the leftovers, and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing.
• Place the shrimp in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the shrimp before adding the sauce.
• Arrange the cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until frozen solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious dish!

What is Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp?

Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp is a flavorful dish featuring crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet chili mayonnaise sauce with a hint of spice. It’s perfect as an appetizer or side.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating in buttermilk for optimal tenderness.

How can I make Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp healthier?

You can air fry the shrimp instead of frying them in oil. This reduces fat content while still giving you that satisfying crispness without compromising flavor!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp! It’s such a delightful dish that brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a special weeknight treat, I’m sure it will become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists, and happy cooking!