Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp

This creamy bang bang shrimp recipe is the ultimate crispy-spicy treat that always steals the show at game nights or cozy date nights. Its satisfying crunch combined with a sweet and spicy sauce makes every bite irresistible and fun to eat.

Ingredients

• One pound of large shrimp: peeled and deveined ensures every bite has meaty, tender seafood.
• Buttermilk: helps the coating stick without sogginess.
• Cornstarch combined with all-purpose flour: delivers a light and crispy crust when fried.
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning bring out the shrimp’s natural flavor.
• Vegetable oil: is the best choice for frying to get that perfect golden crunch.
• Fresh chopped parsley or green onions: add a bright color and fresh note for garnish.
• Mayonnaise: creates that creamy base for the bang bang sauce.
• Sweet chili sauce: provides both sweetness and a subtle tang.
• Sriracha: adds your preferred level of heat.
• Honey or sugar: balances the spice.
• Rice vinegar or lime juice: adds a little brightness to keep the sauce lively and fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Sauce First:

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. This sauce is the flavor powerhouse, blending creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy elements that coat the shrimp perfectly.

Prep and Coat the Shrimp:

Place the peeled shrimp in a bowl and toss with buttermilk to moisten each piece allowing the coating to cling better. In another dish mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each shrimp one by one in this dry mixture making sure they are evenly coated for that signature crunch.

Fry to Perfection:

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the shrimp in small batches without crowding so they cook evenly and become beautifully golden and crispy in about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain the cooked shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Sauce It Up:

While the shrimp are still warm, toss them gently in the prepared bang bang sauce ensuring every piece is well coated with the creamy spicy glaze that makes this dish addictive.

Garnish and Serve:

Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate and sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions. This dish shines as an appetizer but also pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying main course.

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Storage Tips

Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp briefly in a hot skillet or oven to bring back some crispness before tossing with sauce again.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap buttermilk for regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice if needed. Use gluten-free flour blends and cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free. Adjust the Sriracha amount to tame or boost the heat according to your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fluffy jasmine rice or cold noodles tossed lightly in sesame oil to complement the shrimp. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness and add freshness to your meal.

Cultural Context

Bang bang sauce originates from Asian fusion cuisine where sweet chili and spicy elements blend seamlessly. This style of crispy sauced shrimp evolved in popular American Chinese restaurants and has become a beloved party snack nationwide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of shrimp works best for this dish?

Large shrimp that are peeled and deveined work best to ensure even cooking and a satisfying bite.

→ How can I achieve the crispy coating on the shrimp?

Coating the shrimp in buttermilk followed by a mixture of cornstarch and flour creates a crunchy texture when fried at the right temperature.

→ What is the role of the bang bang sauce?

The sauce combines creamy, sweet, and spicy elements that complement the crispy shrimp, adding depth and vibrant flavor.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

Yes, adjusting the amount of Sriracha lets you control the heat level to suit your taste preference.

→ What are good garnishes for this shrimp dish?

Chopped parsley or green onions add freshness and visual appeal to the finished dish.

→ What sides pair well with creamy bang bang shrimp?

This dish pairs nicely with steamed rice, noodles, or fresh greens to balance the crunchy and creamy components.