Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress without taking up your entire evening, you’ve come to the right place! This Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp has become a go-to favorite in my kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this crispy, tender shrimp coated in a creamy, tangy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone wants to dig into something delicious.

What makes this recipe even more special is how adaptable it is. You can serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering or toss it over a bed of rice for a quick dinner. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to keep this Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days when you crave something spectacular without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its crispy texture and creamy sauce, even the pickiest eaters will love diving into this shrimp dish.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time and have everything ready to go when you’re ready to cook!
• Bold Flavor: The combination of sweet chili sauce and sriracha creates a deliciously spicy kick that elevates the shrimp to another level.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish over rice, this recipe fits any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + lemon juice)

For the Coating

• 3/4 cup cornstarch (or potato/tapioca starch)
• 1 cup vegetable oil

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to swap out ingredients or make adjustments based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different take on this dish.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top before serving for extra texture.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more sriracha or even some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Go gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of cornstarch for dredging if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

How to Make Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by marinating your shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps tenderize the shrimp and allows them to soak up all those delicious flavors!

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

While your shrimp are marinating, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl. Set this aside; it’s going to coat your shrimp perfectly later on!

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

In another bowl, combine cornstarch with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Once your shrimp are done marinating, dredge them in this mixture until they’re fully coated. This coating will give them that irresistible crunch!

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F. Fry the shrimp in batches for around 1.5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. Be patient; frying them in batches ensures they get crispy all around!

Step 5: Toss with Sauce

Once fried, drain any excess oil on paper towels. Then take those crunchy little morsels and toss them with your prepared bang bang sauce before serving!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Making this dish is simple, but a few extra tips can take your bang bang shrimp to the next level!

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Using fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp ensures a better texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp will taste more vibrant and succulent, enhancing the overall experience.

• Don’t Skip the Marinade: Letting the shrimp soak in buttermilk not only tenderizes them but also helps the coating adhere better. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at about 350°F is key for frying. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside; if it’s too cool, they’ll absorb excess oil and become greasy.

• Work in Batches: Frying shrimp in smaller batches allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature. This way, you’ll achieve that golden brown crunch every time.

• Serve Immediately: Bang bang shrimp are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer. Serving them right away ensures that they stay crispy and flavorful!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Presenting your bang bang shrimp beautifully can make all the difference at your table! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of green onions adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both taste and appearance.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before eating brightens up the flavors, adding a zesty kick that complements the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet rice pairs perfectly with spicy dishes, providing a creamy balance to the heat from the shrimp.
• Crispy Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds crunch and contrasts nicely with the richness of the shrimp.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but also brings in some healthy greens to complement your meal.
• Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries offer a satisfying texture while their natural sweetness balances out the spicy notes of the bang bang sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress everyone with your Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp! Enjoy this delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing.
• Place the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume leftovers within 2 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour.
• Transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Enjoy within 1 month for optimum freshness.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones that might help you with this delicious dish.

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

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating in buttermilk. This will help achieve the crispy texture when frying.

What if I can’t find sweet chili sauce?

If sweet chili sauce is unavailable, you can easily make a substitute by mixing equal parts of ketchup and honey with a dash of hot sauce for that sweet and spicy kick!

How do I achieve extra crispy shrimp with this Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe?

To enhance crispiness, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F). Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Bang Bang Shrimp?

Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with large cauliflower florets or tofu cubes. Follow the same marinating and cooking instructions for a delicious vegetarian alternative!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe as delightful as I do! It’s not only simple to make but also brings an exciting burst of flavor that will impress anyone at your table. Enjoy whipping this up for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!