Introduction to Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to cooking. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp Bites. These little delights are not just a quick solution for a hectic day but also a dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones. With their crispy texture and spicy flavor, you’ll feel like a culinary superhero in no time. Whether it’s a casual family night or a gathering with friends, these shrimp bites will have everyone talking, and your kitchen buzzing with happy chatter.
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Let’s face it, life can be a whirlwind! That’s where these Bang Bang Shrimp Bites come to the rescue. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. Plus, their crispy texture paired with that zesty sauce will make your taste buds dance! Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, they’ll leave you smiling with satisfaction and impressing everyone around you.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Gathering the right ingredients for your Bang Bang Shrimp Bites sets the stage for a delightful cooking adventure! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Jumbo shrimp: The star of the show! Choose peeled and deveined shrimp for easy cooking and tender bites.
- Buttermilk: This adds creaminess and helps to tenderize the shrimp. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix whole milk with a little lemon juice as a brilliant substitute.
- Cornstarch: Your go-to for that crispy, crunchy coating. You can also use potato starch or tapioca starch if you prefer.
- Salt: Essential for flavor enhancement. Use kosher salt for a balanced taste.
- Garlic powder: Provides a delicious depth of flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- Black pepper: A dash adds that perfect savory kick. Freshly ground is always a nice touch!
- Vegetable oil: For frying! Use any neutral oil. Think canola or peanut oil for high heat cooking.
- Green onion: These bring freshness and a pop of color to your dish, not to mention a slight crunch.
- Mayonnaise: Preferably Japanese mayonnaise for a unique creaminess, but regular mayo works just fine too.
- Thai sweet chili sauce: This gives that signature sweetness and slight heat that defines the Bang Bang flavor.
- Sriracha sauce: For an extra spicy twist! Feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
All ingredients with exact quantities are detailed at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Get ready to savor these awesome flavors!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Now onto the fun part! Making Bang Bang Shrimp Bites is an adventure anyone can tackle, even on a busy night. Let’s dive into the steps, so you can bring this crispy delight to your table!
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
To start, grab your peeled and deveined shrimp. Place them in a medium bowl and pour in the buttermilk. This step is golden! The buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp, making them juicy and flavorful. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. During this time, the shrimp soak up that creamy goodness, becoming irresistibly succulent. While they’re marinating, take a moment to think about how the tender shrimp will perfectly contrast with the crispy coating. Trust me; you’ll love this part of the recipe!
Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
Next, it’s time to whip up the tantalizing Bang Bang sauce that will elevate your shrimp bites. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy. The key here is balance; you want that perfect blend of sweet and spicy that makes your taste buds sing! Not too much heat, and just enough sweetness to bring everything together. Set this sauce aside for now—it’s going to shine later when we toss in those crispy shrimp!
Step 3: Create the Dredging Mixture
Let’s kick things up a notch! In a shallow bowl or rimmed baking sheet, combine the cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk this mixture well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This blend is your secret weapon for an ultra-crispy coating that’ll make your shrimp shine! Feel free to play with the seasonings here—maybe add a little paprika for extra flavor. The choices are endless!
Step 4: Dredge the Shrimp
Now, it’s time for some hands-on fun! Take your marinated shrimp and let the excess liquid drip off. Then, one by one, coat each shrimp in the dredging mixture, ensuring it’s covered all over. Make sure you press lightly so the coating sticks well. This is crucial for that perfect crunch. If you feel adventurous, double-dip the shrimp by returning them to the buttermilk before dredging again. Just imagine that extra crunch!
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Time to turn up the heat! In a large skillet, pour in about a cup of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it reaches around 350°F. To test the oil, toss in a small piece of bread—if it sizzles, you’re golden! Working in batches, fry the shrimp for about 1.5 minutes on each side until they become golden brown. Keep an eye on them; we want that crispy perfection without the greasy aftermath. Once they’re done, transfer them to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil—crispy is the goal here!
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together! In a large bowl, toss the crispy shrimp with that delicious Bang Bang sauce we made earlier. Gently mix them so each shrimp is coated in that mouth-watering goodness. For an added touch, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a burst of freshness and color. Serve them up warm, and watch your loved ones devour them with delight!
Tips for Success
- For crispy shrimp, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in small batches for even cooking.
- Experiment with spices in the dredging mixture for unique flavors.
- Adjust the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce to your family’s taste preferences.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Medium bowl: For marinating shrimp. A mixing bowl works too.
- Shallow bowl or rimmed baking sheet: For dredging. Any large dish will do!
- Large skillet: Essential for frying. A deep frying pan is a great alternative.
- Whisk: To mix dry ingredients. A fork can also do the trick.
- Wire rack or paper towels: For draining excess oil. You can use a plate as well.
Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
- Spicy Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Substitute shrimp with diced salmon for a different twist. The same crispy coating and sauce will work wonders!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with cauliflower florets or firm tofu, following the same marination and dredging process for a delightful plant-based treat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Stick with cornstarch for dredging to keep this recipe entirely gluten-free. Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities!
- Air-Fried Bang Bang Bites: For a healthier option, air fry the coated shrimp for about 8–10 minutes at 400°F instead of frying in oil. You’ll still get that crispy texture with less oil!
- Herbed Bang Bang Sauce: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the sauce for a refreshing twist. This adds a burst of flavor that’ll brighten up every bite!
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with a zesty lemon wedge to brighten up the flavors.
- A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the heat beautifully.
- Present on a platter garnished with lime slices and fresh herbs for a vibrant display.
- Offer a side of sesame noodles for a complete meal experience.
FAQs about Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Let’s tackle some questions that might pop up as you embark on making your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Bites.
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp earlier in the day and even prepare the sauce. Just coat and fry them right before serving for that crispy texture.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
If shrimp isn’t your thing, feel free to use firm tofu or cauliflower florets. The dredging and frying process remains the same, giving you delightful bites!
How do I adjust the level of spiciness?
To control the heat, simply adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. For a milder version, start with less and increase to your liking.
Can I air fry the shrimp instead of frying them?
Yes! To make air-fried Bang Bang Shrimp Bites, lightly coat the shrimp with oil and air fry at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through for crispiness.
What are some great side dishes to serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Bites?
Pair these delicious bites with a simple green salad, rice, or even sesame noodles for a complete meal. They’ll complement the shrimp perfectly!
Final Thoughts on Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Bringing Bang Bang Shrimp Bites to your table isn’t just about a meal; it’s about creating joyful moments with family and friends. Every crispy, flavorful bite is a little celebration, evoking smiles and happy chatter. I love that this recipe fits seamlessly into my busy life, allowing me to serve something special without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging in a cozy family dinner, these shrimp bites will undoubtedly be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, get that frying pan sizzling, and let the deliciousness unfold!
Print
Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A deliciously crispy and spicy shrimp appetizer coated in a flavorful Bang Bang sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk or 1 cup whole milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, rested for 5 minutes
- 0.75 cup cornstarch or potato starch or tapioca starch
- 0.75 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil or neutral oil
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- 0.5 cup Japanese mayonnaise or regular mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce, more if desired
Instructions
- Place peeled and deveined shrimp into a medium bowl. Add buttermilk or milk mixture and let stand for 10 minutes to tenderize.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
- In a shallow bowl or rimmed baking sheet, whisk together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring full, even coverage.
- Heat 1 cup oil in a large skillet over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F. Fry the shrimp in batches, allowing space between pieces, for approximately 1.5 minutes per side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding and overcooking.
- Transfer cooked shrimp onto a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Place crispy shrimp in a large bowl. Drizzle prepared Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp and gently toss to coat. Top with chopped green onion before serving.
Notes
- For extra spiciness, add more sriracha sauce to the Bang Bang sauce.
- Ensure the oil temperature is correct to achieve crispy shrimp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 shrimp
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
