Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe: A Crispy, Spicy Delight

This isn't just any shrimp recipe; this is a Bang Bang Shrimp recipe, a dish that's taken the culinary world by storm. Known for its crispy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile, Bang Bang Shrimp is perfect as an appetizer, a light meal, or a show-stopping addition to your next party. This guide will walk you through a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe, along with tips and tricks to make your Bang Bang Shrimp truly unforgettable.

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish featuring succulent shrimp coated in a crispy breading and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. The "bang" refers to the explosive flavor combination – a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that create an addictive taste sensation. While the exact origins are debated, its popularity stems from its simple yet satisfying nature.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed.

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sriracha (or more, to taste)
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preparing the Shrimp:

1. Pat the shrimp dry: This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the shrimp.
2. Season the flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Bread the shrimp: Dip each shrimp in the beaten egg, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. For extra crispiness, you can repeat this process.
4. Fry the shrimp: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
2. Adjust to taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more sriracha for extra heat, or more sweet chili sauce for a sweeter flavor.

Combining and Serving:

1. Toss the shrimp: Add the fried shrimp to the bang bang sauce and gently toss to coat evenly.
2. Serve immediately: Enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp hot and crispy! Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, fries, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp:

• Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp. Fry in batches for best results.
• Adjust the spice level: The amount of sriracha you use will determine the spiciness of your Bang Bang sauce. Start with less and add more to your preference.
• Make it ahead: The bang bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Fry the shrimp just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different flavors and additions to your bang bang sauce, such as lime juice, ginger, or other spices.

Variations on the Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe:

• Baked Bang Bang Shrimp: For a healthier option, bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Bang Bang Chicken: Substitute chicken tenders for the shrimp to create a delicious Bang Bang Chicken variation.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to create amazing Bang Bang Shrimp. Remember to adjust the spice level and explore different flavor combinations to make this recipe your own. Enjoy!