Introduction to Bang Bang Shrimp
What is Bang Bang Shrimp and why is it loved?
Bang Bang Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that has taken the culinary world by storm, beloved for its delightful contrast between crispy shrimp and a creamy, slightly spicy sauce. Originating from Asian cuisine, this dish has become a favorite on restaurant menus and in home kitchens alike. The shrimp are typically coated in cornstarch, fried until golden, and then tossed with a rich sauce made from mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, often elevated with a hint of sriracha for a kick.
Why do people rave about it? It's all about the flavor and texture! The crunchiness of the shrimp combined with the creaminess of the sauce creates a unique dining experience that appeals to seafood lovers and spice aficionados alike. You can serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, making it as versatile as it is delicious.
For an even easier home version, you can follow a simple recipe to recreate this popular dish; you might find that it's just as good, if not better, than what you get at your favorite restaurant. Plus, connecting with friends over a plate of Bang Bang Shrimp makes for a delightful evening. Curious to try your hand at it? Let's dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp
Essential ingredients for crispy Bang Bang Shrimp
To achieve that delectable crunch in your Bang Bang Shrimp, start with the essentials. You'll need 1 lb of jumbo shrimp, which should be peeled and deveined for the best texture. Along with that, 1 cup of buttermilk is key—if you don’t have any on hand, simply mix 1 cup of whole milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice and let it sit for five minutes. For the crispy coating, use ¾ cup of cornstarch, but if you prefer, potato starch or tapioca starch can work as a substitute. Don’t forget vegetable oil for frying and season your shrimp with ¾ teaspoon of salt, ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped green onion.
The secret to a tasty Bang Bang Sauce
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the Bang Bang Sauce. This sauce is what truly elevates the dish! You’ll mix ½ cup of Japanese mayonnaise (or regular mayo if you’d like) with ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce, which adds the perfect touch of sweetness. To give it a kick, dive into 2 tablespoons of sriracha, and feel free to add more if you enjoy some heat. It’s a simple yet scrumptious mix that complements the crispy shrimp wonderfully!
For more tips on shrimp preparation, check out this guide on how to choose the freshest shrimp available. Happy cooking!
Preparing Bang Bang Shrimp
If you're looking to impress your friends or just treat yourself to a delightful meal, Bang Bang Shrimp is a fantastic choice. This dish features tender shrimp with a crispy coating, all tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. Here's how to prepare it step by step.
Marinate the shrimp
Start by giving your shrimp a flavorful soak. In a medium bowl, combine 1 pound of peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp with 1 cup of buttermilk. The buttermilk not only tenderizes the shrimp, but it also helps the coating adhere better. Let this sit for about 10 minutes while you gather your other ingredients. If you’re substituting with milk and lemon juice, remember to wait those extra 5 minutes for the mixture to curdle.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
Next up, let’s whip up the rich and creamy Bang Bang Sauce. In a small bowl, mix together:
- ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise (or regular mayo)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
Stir until everything is well blended, and set it aside. The combination of sweetness and heat makes this sauce irresistible!
Prepare the dredging station
Now, it’s time to create your dredging station. In a shallow bowl or baking sheet, combine ¾ cup cornstarch, ¾ teaspoon salt, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Whisk it all together to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This mixture will give the shrimp that crunchy, golden texture that’s a hallmark of great Bang Bang Shrimp.
Frying the shrimp to perfection
For frying, heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 350 degrees F. Once hot, it's time to fry! Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, covering both sides thoroughly, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Remember to fry in batches; overcrowding the pan will result in soggy shrimp instead of that sought-after crispiness. Each batch should take about 1.5 minutes per side.
Once they are golden brown, remove the shrimp and let them drain on a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to catch any excess oil.
Toss shrimp in sauce and serve
Finally, it's time for the pièce de résistance. Transfer your crispy shrimp into a large bowl and drizzle the Bang Bang Sauce over the top. Gently toss the shrimp to ensure they are fully coated in that creamy goodness. For the finishing touch, sprinkle some finely chopped green onions on top for a pop of flavor and color.
And there you have it—your fantastic Bang Bang Shrimp is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with a side of rice or a crisp salad, and watch your friends gobble them up in no time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp
Spicy Variations for Heat Lovers
If you can't get enough heat, try spicing things up with Bang Bang Shrimp by tweaking the sauce. Add extra sriracha for an intense kick or incorporate a splash of hot sauce like Tabasco. For a gourmet twist, mix in some chipotle powder or even chopped jalapeños. These additions will not only elevate the flavor but also keep your taste buds tingling!
Healthier Options: Air-Frying Bang Bang Shrimp
Want to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp with less guilt? Air-frying is a fantastic alternative that significantly cuts down on oil use without sacrificing crunch. Simply follow the air-frying instructions provided in the recipe, and you will end up with crispy, golden shrimp that’s just as delicious but lighter. This method is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something tasty yet healthy!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Bang Bang Shrimp
Achieving the Perfect Crispy Texture
To get bang bang shrimp that’s a delight to bite into, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying—350°F is ideal. Using cornstarch creates a fantastic crunch, but don’t overcrowd the pan; this will steam the shrimp rather than fry them. Cook in small batches for golden, crispy perfection!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Professionals
If you're short on time, consider prepping your ingredients the night before. Soak the shrimp in buttermilk and mix the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Also, using a high-quality air fryer can cut down cooking time significantly. With this approach, you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising your busy schedule. Explore more on how to use air fryers here.
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Creative Serving Ideas
Make your Bang Bang Shrimp the star of the show! Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, or nestle it inside warm tortillas for a delicious shrimp taco experience. You can also present it on skewers as an eye-catching appetizer at your next gathering. For a more inventive twist, try topping a fresh salad with these crispy shrimp and drizzle with extra bang bang sauce.
Pairing Options with Sides and Beverages
Pair your Bang Bang Shrimp with zesty sides to enhance the dish. Crunchy coleslaw and sweet potato fries complement the savory shrimp perfectly. For bites that balance the heat, consider serving cucumber slices or refreshing mango salsa. To wash it down, opt for iced green tea or a fruity mocktail. These combinations will leave your taste buds dancing and create a memorable meal experience.
Time Breakdown for Bang Bang Shrimp
Preparation Time
To get those bang bang shrimp ready for cooking, you'll spend about 10 minutes tenderizing the shrimp in buttermilk. This brief soak is essential for maximizing flavor and texture.
Cooking Time
Frying the shrimp adds an additional 6-8 minutes to the clock. You'll need around 1.5 minutes per side for that crispy perfection, but it might take a little longer depending on your cooking method.
Total Time
From start to finish, you’re looking at roughly 20-25 minutes. It's quick, simple, and a wonderfully satisfying way to impress your friends or enjoy a delicious dinner at home!
Make sure to check out our full recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp to get started!
Nutritional Facts for Bang Bang Shrimp
Estimated Calories per Serving
A serving of Bang Bang Shrimp typically packs around 450 calories. This makes it a delightful yet indulgent option for seafood lovers, perfect for a satisfying appetizer or a main dish.
Protein Content and Other Key Nutrients
In terms of nutrition, each serving boasts approximately 30 grams of protein, thanks to our star ingredient, shrimp! Additionally, you’ll benefit from other essential nutrients like calcium from the buttermilk and healthy fats from the mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce. To learn more about the nutritional value of shrimp, check out this detailed analysis from Healthline.
Whether you're looking for a flavorful treat for game day or an elegant dinner, Bang Bang Shrimp can cater to your cravings while also delivering a good dose of protein and key nutrients!
FAQs about Bang Bang Shrimp
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and sauce ahead of time. Just keep the shrimp coated in cornstarch mixture and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. For the sauce, mix it up and store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, fry the shrimp for that fresh, crispy texture!
What are the best substitutes for shrimp?
If you're looking for alternatives, consider using chicken breast, tofu, or cauliflower for a plant-based twist. These substitutes can mimic the nice texture of shrimp while soaking up that delicious bang bang sauce. For a seafood alternative, try scallops or white fish like cod or tilapia; they also pair well with this zesty sauce.
How do I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
To save leftover Bang Bang Shrimp, cool them to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to maintain their crispy texture, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy. If you have extra sauce, store it separately for better flavor retention!
For more tips, check out our guide on storing fried foods!
Conclusion on Bang Bang Shrimp
In summary, Bang Bang Shrimp makes a deliciously bold addition to any meal, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This crispy, flavorful dish is easier to whip up than you might think. Elevate your dining experience and impress your friends with this simple yet delightful recipe!
Bang Bang Shrimp
Equipment
- skillet
- Bowls
- baking sheet
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk or sub with 1 cup whole milk and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, let sit for 5 minutes
- 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 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 for about 1.5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- 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 and gently toss to mix.
- Garnish with green onions. Enjoy!
Leave a Reply