This Bang Bang Shrimp dish is a delightful fusion of crispy, tender shrimp coated in a sweet, spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. The combination of heat from the sriracha, sweetness from the chili sauce, and creamy mayo makes each bite irresistible.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these shrimp are sure to impress guests at any gathering. They’re easy to make, yet full of flavor, and the garnishes of green onions and sesame seeds add a fresh and crunchy touch. Perfect for pairing with a refreshing cocktail or a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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Vegetable oil, for frying
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
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2 tbsp sriracha sauce
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1 tsp honey
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1 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
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1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
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In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
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In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and honey to create the bang bang sauce.
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In a large bowl, toss the crispy shrimp with the sauce until fully coated.
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Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Bang Bang Shrimp: A Deliciously Crispy Seafood Favorite
Bang Bang Shrimp is a flavorful and addictive seafood dish that has gained popularity in many households and restaurants around the world. Originating from Asian cuisine, it features crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a main course, and it has become a favorite for seafood lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, Bang Bang Shrimp never fails to impress.
The Origins of Bang Bang Shrimp
While the exact origins of Bang Bang Shrimp are debated, it’s widely believed to have been popularized by a restaurant chain called Bonefish Grill, which introduced the dish to the American public in the early 2000s. The name “Bang Bang” refers to the combination of spicy heat and sweet sauce that creates a deliciously bold flavor profile. The concept of combining crispy fried shrimp with a creamy, tangy sauce has since been embraced and adapted by home cooks and chefs around the world, with various variations emerging.
The key to Bang Bang Shrimp’s popularity lies in its balance of textures and flavors. The crispy shrimp are coated in a light batter and fried to golden perfection, offering a crunchy bite. This contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a kick of sriracha for heat. The result is a delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors that is simply irresistible.
Why Bang Bang Shrimp is So Popular
Bang Bang Shrimp has taken the culinary world by storm due to its combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures. It’s the perfect dish for those who enjoy a little heat without being overwhelmed by spice. The sweet chili sauce and mayo-based dressing add a creamy element, balancing out the heat from the sriracha sauce. These contrasting flavors make the dish approachable for a wide variety of taste preferences, from those who enjoy spicy foods to those who prefer milder options.
The versatility of Bang Bang Shrimp also contributes to its popularity. It can be served in numerous ways, such as an appetizer, a topping for salads, or a filling for tacos. This adaptability means that it can be incorporated into many different meals and enjoyed by everyone at the table. The dish is also quick and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for home cooks who are short on time but still want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal.
Making Bang Bang Shrimp at Home
While Bang Bang Shrimp has become a staple at many restaurants, it is surprisingly easy to recreate at home. One of the main advantages of preparing this dish at home is the ability to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. You can adjust the level of spice, sweetness, and creaminess based on your preferences. Additionally, homemade Bang Bang Shrimp tends to be fresher and more affordable than ordering from a restaurant.
To make Bang Bang Shrimp at home, you will need shrimp, cornstarch, flour, and a variety of seasonings for the coating. The shrimp are dredged in this mixture and then fried until golden and crispy. The magic happens when you prepare the sauce: a combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a touch of honey. This creamy sauce is what gives the shrimp its signature flavor, and tossing the fried shrimp in the sauce creates the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy.
Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp
Although the classic recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp is beloved by many, there are several variations that allow you to experiment with different flavors and textures. For those who prefer a lighter version, you can opt to bake the shrimp instead of frying them. This reduces the fat content while still maintaining the crispy exterior. Another popular variation is to use coconut shrimp as the base, which adds a hint of sweetness and crunch to the dish.
For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of sriracha sauce in the dressing, or add other chili-based sauces like sambal oelek or hot sauce. If you’re looking to create a more tangy and refreshing version of the dish, you can incorporate lime juice or rice vinegar into the sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Some people even add a touch of garlic or ginger to the sauce to give it an aromatic, savory undertone.
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion. As an appetizer, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Serve the shrimp in a large bowl or platter, garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
If you’re looking to turn Bang Bang Shrimp into a full meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed rice or on top of a bed of mixed greens for a light and healthy dinner. You can also serve it with vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to balance out the richness of the shrimp. If you’re hosting a party, Bang Bang Shrimp makes a great addition to a seafood platter or a spread of appetizers for your guests to enjoy.
For a more creative take, you can serve the shrimp in tacos or sliders. The crispy shrimp pairs wonderfully with soft tortillas, crunchy slaw, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a tasty twist on the traditional taco. You could also add a tangy avocado or a splash of lime to enhance the freshness of the dish.
The Popularity of Bang Bang Shrimp in Restaurants
Bang Bang Shrimp has become a mainstay on many restaurant menus, especially in seafood-focused eateries. Its delicious flavor and eye-catching presentation make it a favorite among diners looking for something new and exciting. Many restaurants have put their own spin on the dish, from adjusting the spice levels to adding unique garnishes or side dishes that complement the shrimp.
One of the reasons for the dish’s popularity in restaurants is its shareability. It’s a great option for groups and families to enjoy together, as it can be easily passed around the table. Additionally, the bold flavors and crispy texture make Bang Bang Shrimp an Instagram-worthy dish, which helps to boost its appeal in the age of social media.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp is a delectable dish that brings together crispy shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce, offering an irresistible flavor combination that satisfies a variety of taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main dish, or as part of a larger meal, Bang Bang Shrimp is sure to impress. Its versatility and deliciousness have contributed to its rise in popularity, both in restaurants and in home kitchens. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that will continue to delight seafood lovers for years to come.
By preparing Bang Bang Shrimp at home, you can customize the dish to your liking and enjoy it fresh from your own kitchen. Whether you’re sticking with the classic recipe or experimenting with different variations, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, grab some shrimp, whip up the sauce, and get ready to enjoy this mouthwatering, crispy seafood treat.