If you’re looking for a dish that brings excitement to your table, this Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is just the ticket! With its crispy texture and a delightful kick from the sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. The combination of succulent shrimp, crunchy panko, and that creamy, spicy sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this recipe is quick to whip up and sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 pound large shrimp: Make sure they are peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor.
1/2 cup cornstarch: This will help create a crispy coating on the shrimp.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the seasoning mix.
1/2 cup buttermilk: This moistens the shrimp and helps the coating stick.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These provide a light and crunchy texture that’s irresistible.
Vegetable oil: For frying; you’ll need enough to cover the bottom of your skillet.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy Bang Bang sauce.
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a hint of heat.
1 tablespoon sriracha: Adjust this to your taste for a spicy kick.
1 teaspoon lime juice: Brightens the sauce and balances the flavors.
Chopped green onions: For garnish, adding a fresh touch to your dish.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get into the fun part—preparing your Easy Bang Bang Shrimp! Follow these steps for a deliciously crispy dish.
Season the Shrimp
Start by seasoning the shrimp. In a medium bowl, mix together the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we all love!
Dip in Buttermilk
Next, pour the buttermilk into another bowl. Take each shrimp and dip it into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. This moistens the shrimp and helps the panko breadcrumbs stick later on. Don’t rush this step; it’s key for a great coating!
Coat with Panko
Now it’s time to coat the shrimp with panko breadcrumbs. Roll each shrimp in the panko, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well. This will give your shrimp that delightful crunch when fried. Make sure every piece is well-coated for the best results!
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level. This sauce is what makes the dish truly special, so don’t skip it!
Heat Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough for frying but not smoking. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
Fry Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches to the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and affect the crispiness. Once done, remove the shrimp and drain them on paper towels.
Toss with Sauce
In a large bowl, toss the fried shrimp with the Bang Bang sauce until they are well coated. This step is where the magic happens! Make sure every shrimp is covered in that creamy, spicy goodness.
Garnish and Enjoy
Finally, serve your Easy Bang Bang Shrimp immediately, garnished with chopped green onions. This adds a fresh touch and a pop of color. Enjoy your creation with friends or family, and watch them rave about your cooking skills!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore making it:
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish even on busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce creates a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer for parties, a fun family dinner, or even a special date night.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the sriracha in the sauce to suit your spice preference, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Gluten-Free Option: With simple ingredient swaps, you can easily make this dish gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
Once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe is a favorite in my kitchen!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Easy Bang Bang Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips I’ve learned along the way:
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry.
Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: This step is essential for keeping the shrimp moist and helping the coating stick. Let the shrimp soak for a few minutes for maximum flavor.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, the shrimp will burn; too cool, and they’ll become greasy.
Fry in Batches: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature. Work in small batches for that perfect crispiness.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the shrimp right after tossing them in the sauce. They’re at their crunchiest when fresh!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a dish that impresses everyone at your table!
Nutritional Information Section
Understanding the nutritional content of your Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe can help you enjoy it even more! Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 15g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy your meal while being mindful of these nutritional details!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe? Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you out!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispy finish.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make your Easy Bang Bang Shrimp gluten-free, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that all sauces used are also gluten-free.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness, but keep in mind that they may lose some texture.
Season Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in the mixture until they are evenly coated.
Dip in Buttermilk: Pour the buttermilk into another bowl. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
Coat with Panko: Roll the shrimp in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level.
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.
Fry Shrimp: Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Toss with Sauce: In a large bowl, toss the fried shrimp with the Bang Bang sauce until well coated.
Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.
