Introduction to Bang Bang Shrimp
Why Bang Bang Shrimp is the perfect homemade dish for busy professionals
If you’re a busy professional juggling work deadlines and social commitments, Bang Bang Shrimp might just be your new favorite dish! This delightful recipe features crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, and best of all, it takes only about 30 minutes to make from start to finish.
Imagine coming home after a hectic day, craving something flavorful yet easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish offers incredible taste without requiring hours in the kitchen. According to a study by the Food Network, quick recipes like this are increasingly popular among young professionals who prefer cooking at home without sacrificing time or flavor.
Not only is Bang Bang Shrimp quick to make, but it's also adaptable. Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or pair it with rice for a complete meal. Plus, if you’re feeling health-conscious, check out the notes for an air-fried option that cuts down on oil while still delivering that crispy goodness.
Why not treat yourself to this addictive dish tonight? You’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to impress, and your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp
Essential Ingredients for the Shrimp
To create the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp, you'll need a few key ingredients that come together for that delicious crunch and flavor:
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp: Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy preparation.
- 1 cup Buttermilk: This helps to tenderize the shrimp. If you don’t have buttermilk, simply mix 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- ¾ cup Cornstarch: This is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy texture. You can also use potato starch or tapioca starch if you prefer.
- ¾ teaspoon Salt, ¾ teaspoon Garlic Powder, ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: These spices add the perfect flavor profile to the shrimp.
Ingredients for the Bang Bang Sauce
No Bang Bang Shrimp is complete without its signature sauce! Here’s what you need:
- ½ cup Japanese Mayonnaise: For a richer taste, but regular mayo works too.
- ¼ cup Sweet Chili Sauce: This gives the sauce that delightful sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha: Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
These ingredients are sure to elevate your dish and make it utterly addictive! So, gather up these essentials, and you'll be on your way to serving up an incredible appetizer that your friends and family will ask for again and again.
Step-by-step Preparation of Bang Bang Shrimp
Creating perfectly crispy Bang Bang Shrimp at home is a delightful experience that guests will rave about! Follow these straightforward steps, and in no time, you will serve up this addictive appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings or an easy dinner.
Prepare the shrimp with buttermilk
To start your Bang Bang Shrimp, you'll need 1 pound of jumbo shrimp. Ensure they’re peeled and deveined for the best texture. In a medium bowl, add the shrimp and pour in 1 cup of buttermilk. The acidity in the buttermilk not only helps tenderize the shrimp but infuses them with flavor. Let this sit for about 10 minutes—don’t rush this step; it's essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Make the Bang Bang sauce
While you're waiting for the shrimp to become beautifully tender, it's time to whip up the irresistible Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise (or traditional mayo)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (feel free to adjust if you like it spicier!)
Mix these together until smooth and set them aside. Trust me, this sauce is a game-changer—sweet, tangy, and with a hint of heat, it perfectly complements the crispy shrimp.
Dredge the shrimp in cornstarch
Once your shrimp have marinated, it’s time for the next step. In a shallow bowl or on a baking sheet, combine ¾ cup of cornstarch, ¾ teaspoon salt, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This combination will create a delightful crispy coating. Take each piece of shrimp and dredge it in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated on both sides. This step is crucial for that crunchy texture we all love!
Fry the shrimp to crispy perfection
Now comes the exciting part—frying! Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F. This is the magic temperature to achieve that golden, crispy exterior. Fry the shrimp in batches, about 1.5 minutes per side, until they are beautifully golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to soggy shrimp. Once cooked, remove them and let them drain on a wire rack or paper towels to get rid of excess oil.
Toss the shrimp in the sauce
Now for the fun finale! Transfer your crispy shrimp to a large bowl and gently pour the Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss them lightly to ensure each piece is coated in that rich, creamy goodness. Garnish your dish with finely chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and a touch of color.
And voila! You’ve just made your very own Bang Bang Shrimp. Serve it hot and watch as your friends and family enjoy every crunchy bite. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe—your taste buds will thank you!
Variations on Bang Bang Shrimp
Spicy Variations for the Heat Lovers
If you crave a spicier bang bang shrimp, consider kicking up the heat with extra sriracha or adding diced fresh jalapeños for a vibrant kick. Want to experiment? Blend in some spicy chili paste for a deeper flavor profile or sprinkle in red pepper flakes to amp up your dish. Each tweak will give your shrimp a fiery twist that’s hard to resist.
Vegetarian Alternatives for a Meatless Option
For a delightful bang bang shrimp alternative that's meat-free, try using cauliflower or crispy tofu instead of shrimp. The same crispy coating applies, and you can enjoy a plant-based version that packs on flavor! Toss your veggie option in the bang bang sauce and serve over rice or in lettuce wraps for a fresh take. Interested in more vegetarian recipes? Check out Love and Lemons for inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Bang Bang Shrimp
Tips for Perfect Frying
To achieve crispy and delicious bang bang shrimp, the temperature of your oil is crucial. Make sure it’s heated to 350°F (175°C) before adding the shrimp. Fry in small batches—this prevents overcrowding, which can lead to soggy shrimp. Frying for about 1.5 minutes on each side will give you that golden-brown perfection. Always drain your shrimp on a wire rack to keep them crisp.
Notes on Air Frying for a Healthier Version
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, air frying is a great option! Simply coat your shrimp with cornstarch, arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer, and spray lightly with oil. Cook at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll achieve a delightful crunch with a fraction of the oil. For more tips, check out this guide on air frying.
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Creative ways to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp
Looking for fun ways to savor bang bang shrimp? Try lively variations like serving it in taco form—just pile the shrimp in soft tortillas, add shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of fresh lime juice. You could also serve it as a topping for a zesty salad, incorporating avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, elevating your dining experience.
Ideal sides and pairings for a complete meal
To round out your bang bang shrimp feast, consider pairing it with:
- Steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying base.
- Roasted broccoli or asparagus to add a nutritious crunch.
- Crispy egg rolls or Spring rolls for that delightful crunch.
- A refreshing cucumber salad to balance the dish's heat.
These combinations ensure a well-rounded meal that’s both flavorful and fulfilling!
Time Breakdown for Bang Bang Shrimp
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this delectable bang bang shrimp recipe is just 20 minutes. This includes letting the shrimp soak in buttermilk for extra tenderness and mixing up the zesty bang bang sauce. It’s a great time to multitask and set up your cooking space.
Cooking Time
Once you’re prepped, the cooking time is a speedy 6 minutes! Frying the shrimp until they are golden brown will transform your tender shrimp into a crispy delight. Just remember to work in batches for that perfect crunch!
Total Time
From start to finish, you’re looking at a total time of around 26 minutes. That’s right—delicious, crispy bang bang shrimp can be yours in less time than it takes to binge an episode of your favorite show! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special appetizer at a gathering.
For more tips on making shrimp magic happen, check out this guide on seafood cooking times from the FDA to ensure your shrimp is cooked perfectly every time. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Bang Bang Shrimp
Calories
Each serving of bang bang shrimp contains approximately 356 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet indulgent option for a meal or appetizer.
Protein
Packed with flavor, this dish offers a considerable amount of protein, thanks to the shrimp. Each serving contains around 28 grams of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to boost their protein intake.
Dietary Considerations
When enjoying bang bang shrimp, keep dietary preferences in mind. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by using plant-based alternatives for the mayo and buttermilk. Always check labels for specific allergens and adjust the recipe accordingly, ensuring everyone at your table can savor this delicious meal!
For more insights on healthy eating, consider visiting resources like Healthline or Nutrition.gov.
FAQs about Bang Bang Shrimp
How do I make Bang Bang Shrimp less spicy?
If you’re sensitive to heat but still want to enjoy the delightful flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp, you can easily dial down the spice. Start by reducing the amount of sriracha in the sauce. You might also consider substituting it with a milder chili sauce or just a splash of sweet chili sauce for that desired sweetness without the kick. If you like, an additional dollop of regular mayonnaise can help to cool down the overall spiciness.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp are a great option when fresh shrimp aren’t available. Just ensure you thaw the shrimp thoroughly before marinating them in buttermilk. Use this guide on thawing shrimp to get it right, and you'll still end up with crispy, delicious Bang Bang Shrimp!
What is the best sauce alternative for Bang Bang Shrimp?
If you’re looking for a sauce alternative, try using a mix of yogurt and honey for a lighter option. For a tangy twist, a combination of ranch dressing and sweet chili sauce works wonders too! Each of these substitutes can provide a unique flavor profile while still complementing your crispy shrimp.
Conclusion on Bang Bang Shrimp
In conclusion, Bang Bang Shrimp is an indulgent dish that combines crispy texture with a creamy, slightly spicy sauce, making it perfect for appetizers or main courses. Whether you deep-fry or air-fry, this recipe is sure to impress. Share it with friends for a guaranteed hit!
Bang Bang Shrimp
Equipment
- skillet
- medium bowl
- small bowl
- shallow bowl
- whisk
- wire rack
- paper towel
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk or sub with 1 cup whole milk and 1 tablespoon lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes first
- ¾ cup cornstarch or substitute with potato starch/tapioca starch
- 1 cup vegetable oil or any neutral oil
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 unit green onion finely chopped for garnish
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise or substitute with normal mayo
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoon sriracha add more if you like it spicier
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl with peeled and deveined shrimp, add buttermilk. Let this sit for 10 minutes for shrimp to tenderize.
- In a small bowl, combine Bang Bang Sauce ingredients as listed. Set aside.
- In a shallow bowl or baking sheet, whisk together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder and black pepper.
- Coat shrimp in cornstarch mixture by dredging it on both sides.
- In a large skillet (10-inch) or heavy bottom pan, add oil. Heat oil on medium heat or at 350 degrees F on a digital instant read thermometer. Once oil is hot enough, fry shrimp in batches. Fry until you have golden brown shrimp, about 1.5 minutes per side. Do not overcrowd the hot oil or the shrimp won't be crispy. Also do not overcook the shrimp.
- Remove and set aside the cooked shrimp on a wire rack or paper towel lined plate to remove excess oil.
- Transfer crispy shrimp to a large bowl. Pour sauce over top. Gently toss to mix.
- Garnish with green onions. Enjoy!
Air Frying Instructions
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with neutral oil.
- After dredging the shrimp in cornstarch, place coated shrimp in a single layer giving each piece enough space. Do not overlap. You may need to air fry in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Lightly spray each piece neutral oil.
- Air fry at 400 F for 7-8 minutes, flipping the shrimp over halfway.
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