The Bang Bang Shrimp recipe was originally published on 4/21/2021 and updated on 5/7/2024. These shrimp are spicy, crunchy, and creamy all at the same time. This recipe combines shrimp flavors with a spicy Thai Sweet Chili Sauce. Picture plump and juicy shrimp, cooked to perfection, coated in a crispy, golden batter. The chili sauce’s tanginess, the shrimp’s subtle sweetness, and a hint of spiciness all combine with that super crunchy coating for one delicious bite. If you love shrimps, try out my Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pina Colada Dipping Sauce.
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Key Takeaways:
- Flavor Explosion: Bang Bang Shrimp combines spicy, crunchy, and creamy textures with the tangy kick of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce and a crunchy batter.
- Alternative Hot Sauces: Green Dragon Sauce is the go-to for this recipe, but alternatives like Mexican-style hot sauce or wasabi paste can provide unique flavor twists.
- Brain-Boosting Benefits: Shrimp is a powerhouse of neuro-nutrition, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin B12, promoting memory and cognitive health.
- Best Shrimp Selection: Wild-caught jumbo Florida pink shrimp are the preferred choice for their sweet flavor and tender texture, but Argentinian or other jumbo shrimp also work well.
- Cooking Tip: Maintain a steady oil temperature of 375°F when frying to avoid soggy or burnt shrimp. Season generously for the best flavor infusion.
- Versatile Ingredients: The dipping sauce requires mayonnaise, Sweet Red Chili Sauce, and Green Dragon Sauce, while the coating uses whole-fat or nondairy milk, Old Bay seasoning, and cornstarch.
SIS Tip - Simple is Smart
The Bang in Bang Bang shrimp comes from the hot sauce in the recipe. After publishing this recipe a couple of years ago I had a number of people tell me that they would like an alternative to the Green Dragon Sauce. Instead of the Green Dragon Sauce you can use Mexican style hot sauce, or wasabi paste. Both add a little different flavor profile and both are delicious.
Neuro-Nutrition of Shrimp
Shrimp is one of the superstar food for good brain health. This delicious seafood provides numerous benefits for our brain. Shrimp is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function and development. These fatty acids help to improve memory, cognitive function, and overall brain health. Additionally, shrimp is rich in antioxidants that protect the brain from free radicals and oxidative stress. The high levels of vitamin B12 in shrimp also play a crucial role in maintaining healthy brain function by supporting the production of neurotransmitters. So, next time you’re enjoying a plate of Bang Bang Shrimp, know that you’re nourishing your brain as well!
What Shrimp Makes the Best Bang Bang Shrimp
My all-time favorite shrimp in this recipe is the wild-caught jumbo Florida pink shrimp. We spend the winters in Florida, and one of the first things I purchase after we get to Florida in January is these jumbo pink shrimp. That and Jupiter Donuts – but that’s a different story. I’ve used other shrimp, but nothing beats the flavor and texture of these sweet pink shrimp. A close second is the wild-caught Argentinian shrimp. If you can’t find either for your bang, bang shrimp will still be amazing with jumbo wild-caught or farm-raised shrimp.
What do I Need for Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients?
Dipping Sauce:
- Sweet Red Chili Sauce, you can purchase this in Asian markets or sometimes in the international section of the grocery store.
- Mayonnaise: if you prefer salad dressing that will work also the olive oil mayonnaise or light mayonnaise.
- Green Dragon Sauce. Green Dragon Sauce is a seriously yummy hot sauce product of Trader Joe’s to purchase.
Bang Bang Shrimp Coating
- Milk: I use whole-fat milk or nondairy milk.
- Old Bay Seasoning, an alternate is salt and pepper
- Cornstarch.
Step by Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Make the Sauce:
Stir together the mayonnaise, hot sauce, and Sweet Chili Sauce.
Coat and Cook the Shrimp
- The temperature of the oil is very important. Try to maintain a steady 375 degrees F. If the oil gets to cold, the shrimp absorb the oil and become soggy. If the oil is too hot the shrimp burn before they are done.
- Season the shrimp well with the old bay seasoning or salt and pepper. Some of the seasoning will come off in the milk so be extra generous with the seasoning. I’ve also added the seasoning to the cornstarch instead. Both work but I like adding it to the shrimp first and letting it absorb into the shrimp for a few minutes before dipping them in the milk.
- Dip the shrimp in the milk
- Roll it in the cornstarch to coat the shrimps body.
- Fry the shrimp in small batches of 4-6 shrimp at a time. Put the fried shrimp on a wire rack to drain while you cook the rest of the shrimp. When the shrimp are all fried, put them on a serving plate. Drizzle the sauce over them and serve immediately. YUM!!
For more appetizers try my: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies, or my Fried Mac N Cheese.
FAQ
What is the difference between Bang Bang Shrimp and boom boom shrimp?
Firstly, let’s talk about Bang Bang Shrimp. This dish is typically made by tossing crispy fried shrimp in a creamy and slightly spicy sauce. The sauce itself is a combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of Sriracha. The result is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors that dance on your taste buds. The shrimp are usually served over a bed of lettuce or in a soft taco shell, making them a versatile choice for any seafood enthusiast.
On the other hand, boom boom shrimp takes a slightly different approach. This dish features crispy fried shrimp coated in a zesty sauce. The sauce typically consists of mayonnaise, ketchup, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavor explosion that is both savory and slightly tangy. Boom boom shrimp is often served as an appetizer, accompanied by fries or rice.
What is boom boom shrimp sauce made of?
The base of the sauce is usually mayonnaise, which provides a creamy and smooth texture. It acts as a binder for the other ingredients, helping to create a cohesive and luscious sauce. Sweet chili sauce is another key component, contributing a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. This sauce adds a touch of sweetness to counterbalance the heat from the sriracha.
Garlic is essential in boom boom shrimp sauce, lending its distinct aroma and savory taste. It adds depth of flavor and complements the other ingredients perfectly. Finally, sriracha sauce brings the heat and spice to the sauce. It gives a delightful kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Is shrimp good for you?
The answer is a resounding yes! Shrimp is delicious and packed with nutrients that can benefit your overall health. First and foremost, shrimp is an excellent source of protein, making it a great option for those looking to build or maintain muscle. Additionally, shrimp is low in calories and fat, making it a fantastic choice for anyone trying to watch their waistline. Furthermore, shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
How do you tenderize shrimp?
When it comes to cooking shrimp, tenderizing them is a crucial step to ensure they are juicy and flavorful. You can use a few techniques to tenderize shrimp before cooking them. One popular method is to marinate the shrimp in a mixture of acid and oil. The acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, helps break down the connective tissues in the shrimp, making them more tender. Another option is to use a brine solution, which involves soaking the shrimp in salt water. This not only tenderizes the shrimp but also enhances their natural flavors. Lastly, you can also use a meat tenderizer tool to gently pound the shrimp, further breaking down the fibers and making them more tender. Whichever method you choose, be sure not to over-tenderize the shrimp, as they can become mushy and lose their delicate texture.
Can you fry already-cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can definitely fry shrimp that has already been cooked! While it may seem counterintuitive to fry something already cooked, frying shrimp can enhance its flavor and texture. The process of frying the shrimp creates a delicious, crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. To achieve the perfect fried shrimp, simply coat the cooked shrimp in a seasoned batter or breadcrumbs and fry them in hot oil until they turn golden brown. The result is a mouthwatering dish that is both crunchy and succulent. So go ahead and indulge in some fried, already-cooked shrimp, and prepare to be amazed by the delectable flavors that await you!
What to pair Bang Bang Shrimp with?
Pair your Bang Bang Shrimp with crisp lettuce leaves or a zesty cucumber and tomato salad. The coolness of these options complements the spiciness of the shrimp perfectly. Consider serving your Bang Bang Shrimp with fluffy white rice or buttery garlic noodles if you want something heartier. Combining the shrimp and the carbs creates a satisfying and filling meal. If you’re in the mood for a more indulgent treat, pair your Bang Bang Shrimp with some creamy macaroni and cheese or crispy sweet potato fries. The richness of these sides enhances the shrimp flavors, making it an unforgettable dining experience.
Is it OK to eat a lot of shrimp?
Many people love indulging in a plateful of succulent shrimp, but is eating a lot of them really okay? The short answer is yes, as long as you do it in moderation. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium. However, excessive shrimp consumption can lead to health issues due to its relatively high cholesterol content. Balancing your shrimp intake with other protein sources and maintaining a well-rounded diet is recommended. So go ahead and enjoy your shrimp feast, but remember to keep it within reasonable limits!
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Bang Bang Shrimp
Equipment
- deep fryer
Ingredients
Shrimp Coating
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (21-25 count) 453g
- ⅓ cup Coconut Milk or coconut cream
- ½ cup Cornstarch (56g)
- Old Bay Seasoning or Salt and Pepper to taste
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup Mayonnaise(113g)
- 2 tbsp. Sweet Chili Sauce
- 1 tbsp. Green Dragon Sauce (see notes)
Instructions
Bang Bang Sauce
- Mix the mayonnaise, Thai Sweet Chili Sauce, and Green Dragon sauce together.
Coat and Cook the Shrimp
- Heat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C) make sure the oil is a steady 375° when you fry the shrimp. If the oil is too cold the shrimp will soak up the oil and be soggy. If the oil is too hot the shrimp will burn before they are cooked.
- Put the milk in a bowl.
- Put the cornstarch in a separate bowl
- Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined.
- Season the shrimp well with the old bay seasoning or salt and pepper. Some of the seasoning will come off in the milk so be extra generous with the seasoning. I’ve also added the seasoning to the cornstarch instead. Both work but I like adding it to the shrimp first and letting it absorb into the shrimp for a few minutes before dipping them in the milk.
- Dip the seasoned shrimp in the milk or coconut milk
- Roll the shrimp in the cornstarch and fry in the deep fryer in small batches of 3-4 shrimp at a time. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until a golden brown.
- Drain briefly on a wire rack.
- Add the deep-fried shrimp to a serving platter and pour the sauce over the shrimp. Stir to coat and serve immediately.
