Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

If you’re craving a dish that’s irresistibly crispy on the outside and bursting with Bang Bang Shrimp flavors inside, you’ve come to the right place. This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe from cookinwithlalyta.com delivers perfectly crispy shrimp tossed in a bold, sweet and spicy sauce that’s sure to wow your taste buds. Inspired by Asian flavors, it’s an appetizer that solves the common dilemma of wanting restaurant-quality results at home without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this easy-to-follow guide ensures success every time, making it the ultimate Bang Bang Shrimp experience.

Imagine the satisfying crunch of golden shrimp as you bite into it, followed by the harmonious blend of sweet chili heat and creamy tang that dances on your palate. The aromas of frying shrimp mingle with the zesty scent of sriracha and honey, creating an inviting kitchen atmosphere that promises pure indulgence. This recipe’s textures are spot-on—crisp exteriors giving way to tender, juicy centers—while the sauce adds a glossy sheen and a flavor profile that’s both fiery and subtly sweet, leaving you craving more with every mouthful.

What sets this Bang Bang Shrimp version apart on cookinwithlalyta.com is the expertise of Chef Lalybeth, who has refined it through countless kitchen tests for foolproof results. You’ll discover the Chef’s Secret to achieving that unbeatable crispy texture without over-frying, along with tips for healthier twists and creative pairings. This comprehensive resource equips you with everything from ingredient spotlights to FAQs, ensuring you feel confident and excited to recreate this Asian-inspired appetizer that’s become a favorite among home cooks.

Why This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret lies in our unique angle: achieving “Perfectly Crispy with a Bold Flavor Twist” by using a light cornstarch coating that creates an ultra-crispy exterior without sogginess. This technique ensures the shrimp stays tender inside while the sauce adheres perfectly, elevating the dish above standard recipes. By balancing the sweet chili sauce with just the right amount of sriracha and honey, we craft a flavor explosion that’s not overly spicy but hits all the right notes for an authentic Asian-inspired appetizer.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind this Bang Bang Shrimp’s crispiness comes from the cornstarch’s ability to form a protective barrier when fried, allowing the shrimp to cook evenly and retain moisture. This results in a golden, airy crunch that mimics deep-fried perfection, all while controlling oil absorption for a lighter feel. It’s this attention to detail that makes your homemade version stand out from the crowd.

Foolproof for a Reason: Tested multiple times in our kitchen, this recipe guarantees success even for beginners. We’ve adjusted measurements and timings to account for common variables like shrimp size, ensuring consistent results that build your confidence in the kitchen.

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: As the star of this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe, fresh shrimp provides a sweet, succulent base that absorbs flavors beautifully. Opt for wild-caught shrimp for the best taste and texture; it’s crucial for that tender bite. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp works as a substitution—just thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which could make the coating soggy.

1/2 cup cornstarch: This ingredient is key to the “Perfectly Crispy” unique angle, creating a light, crispy coating that locks in juices. Use high-quality, finely milled cornstarch for even coverage; cheaper brands might clump. For a gluten-free alternative, stick with cornstarch, but if you’re out, arrowroot powder can substitute in a pinch, though it may alter the crispiness slightly.

1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: These seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the Bang Bang Shrimp without overwhelming them. High-quality sea salt brings out the shrimp’s sweetness, while fresh-ground black pepper adds a subtle kick. If watching sodium, use a low-sodium salt alternative, but taste as you go to maintain balance in this Asian-inspired dish.

Oil for frying: The frying oil is essential for achieving that golden crispiness in Bang Bang Shrimp. Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola, to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. For a healthier twist, consider avocado oil, which has heart-healthy fats and a mild flavor that complements the recipe’s bold taste.

1/2 cup mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of the sauce, providing a rich, smooth texture that coats the shrimp perfectly. Use full-fat mayo for the best results; low-fat versions can make the sauce watery. For a dairy-free substitute, opt for vegan mayonnaise to keep the Bang Bang Shrimp recipe accessible without losing that luxurious creaminess.

1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: It delivers the sweet and spicy backbone of our “Bold Flavor Twist” in Bang Bang Shrimp. High-quality sauce with real chili peppers ensures authentic taste; avoid overly sweetened versions. If substituting, try a mix of ketchup and red pepper flakes, but adjust for sweetness to preserve the sauce’s vibrant appeal.

2 tablespoons sriracha and 1 tablespoon honey: Sriracha adds fiery heat, while honey balances it with natural sweetness, making this Bang Bang Shrimp sauce irresistible. Use fresh sriracha for optimal flavor; for a milder version, swap with gochujang for a different Asian-inspired twist. If you’re out of honey, agave nectar works, but it might make the sauce slightly thinner.

Green onions for garnish: These add a fresh, oniony crunch and visual pop to your Bang Bang Shrimp. Fresh, organic green onions enhance the dish’s aroma and color; they’re not just decorative. If unavailable, chives can substitute, providing a similar mild flavor that complements the crispy shrimp without overpowering it.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp Coating

In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, whisking until fully mixed. Add the 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, tossing them gently to ensure an even coating on all sides. This step is crucial for that “Perfectly Crispy” texture.

Pro Tip: Coat the shrimp just before frying to prevent the cornstarch from absorbing moisture and becoming gummy, which keeps the exterior light and crunchy.

Step 2: Frying the Shrimp

Heat your chosen oil in a large pan over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy). Add the coated shrimp in a single layer, frying for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Overheating the oil can burn the coating—always monitor the temperature and fry in batches to maintain crispiness and prevent the shrimp from turning rubbery.

Step 3: Creating the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons sriracha, and 1 tablespoon honey until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed for your preference.

Pro Tip: Let the sauce sit for a minute after mixing to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing the “Bold Flavor Twist” that makes this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe stand out.

Step 4: Tossing the Shrimp in Sauce

Once the shrimp are fried and drained on paper towels, transfer them to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss until each piece is evenly coated, ensuring the crispy exterior absorbs just the right amount of sauce without becoming soggy.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Adding sauce to piping-hot shrimp can make them lose crispiness—let them cool slightly first to maintain that perfect texture in your Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

Sprinkle the sauced shrimp with chopped green onions for a fresh garnish, then serve immediately on a platter for the best experience.

Pro Tip: Use freshly chopped green onions right before serving to preserve their vibrant color and crunch, elevating the presentation of your Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer.

Serving & Presentation

For an impressive Bang Bang Shrimp presentation, arrange the shrimp on a sleek white platter to highlight their golden crispiness and glossy sauce. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or cilantro alongside the green onions for extra visual appeal and a subtle flavor boost. This Asian-inspired appetizer pairs wonderfully with light side dishes like steamed rice or fresh spring rolls to balance the spice, or even a crisp Asian salad to keep things refreshing. For a full meal, serve it as a starter before grilled meats or stir-fried vegetables, making it versatile for any occasion.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the shrimp coating and sauce up to 3 days in advance. Mix the dry ingredients for the coating and store in an airtight container, while making the sauce and refrigerating it separately. On the day of serving, coat and fry the shrimp fresh to maintain that “Perfectly Crispy” texture.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the uncoated shrimp for up to a month, but avoid freezing the sauced version as it can affect the crispiness.

The Best Way to Reheat: To restore the original texture and flavor, reheat refrigerated shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or use an air fryer for a quick crisp-up. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the shrimp soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Bang Bang Shrimp

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• Author: Chef Lalybeth
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy fried shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy mayonnaise-based sauce, often served as an appetizer.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Coat the shrimp in this mixture.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the shrimp until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey to make the sauce.
4. Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

For a healthier version, bake the shrimp instead of frying. Adjust spice levels to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Method: Appetizer
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 10g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 20g