Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite appetizer: Fried Bang Bang Shrimp! Picture this: crispy, golden-brown shrimp that crunch delightfully with every bite, all enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce that just makes your taste buds dance! Seriously, it’s like a party in your mouth. I love making these for get-togethers because they disappear faster than I can say “Bang Bang!” Plus, they’re so easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. Every time I serve these, my friends rave about them, and honestly, who can resist that perfect combo of crunch and spice? Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create your mouthwatering Fried Bang Bang Shrimp. Trust me, each one plays a vital role in achieving that crispy texture and spicy flavor!
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp sriracha
1 tsp lime juice
Make sure your shrimp is fresh for the best flavor, and don’t skip the buttermilk marination—it really makes a difference in tenderness!
How to Prepare Fried Bang Bang Shrimp
Fried Bang Bang Shrimp: 5 Irresistible Flavors Unleashed 6
Now, let’s dive into the delicious process of making Fried Bang Bang Shrimp! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and the results are oh-so-rewarding. Follow these simple steps and get ready to impress your taste buds!
Marinating the Shrimp
First things first, we need to marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the shrimp, making them juicy and succulent. You’ll love how the buttermilk helps create that perfect crispy coating!
Preparing the Coating
While the shrimp is soaking, let’s prepare the coating. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s well blended. Dredging the shrimp in this mixture is key to achieving that mouthwatering crunch you crave. So, don’t skip this step!
Frying the Shrimp
Next up is the frying! Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat—around 350°F (175°C) is perfect. Once the oil is hot, carefully dredge the shrimp from the buttermilk into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Fry them in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re done when they’re beautifully golden and floating in the oil—such a satisfying sight!
Making the Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, let’s whip up the sauce! In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and well combined. This sauce is the magical touch that balances the spicy and creamy flavors, making every bite irresistible!
Tossing and Serving
Once your shrimp are fried to perfection, it’s time to toss them in that delicious sauce! Just add the shrimp to the bowl with the sauce and gently stir until they’re fully coated. Serve them immediately, garnished with lime wedges for a zesty kick. These little bites are best enjoyed hot and fresh!
Tips for Success
Want to take your Fried Bang Bang Shrimp to the next level? Here are some pro tips! First, if you like a little extra heat, feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your spice tolerance. Don’t be shy—taste as you go! Also, when frying, make sure your oil is hot enough; a good test is to drop in a small piece of batter—if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which keeps everything crispy. Lastly, serve them right away for that delightful crunch!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of Fried Bang Bang Shrimp (about four shrimp): approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat, 15g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect Fried Bang Bang Shrimp? I’ve got you covered! One common question is, “Can I use frozen shrimp?” Absolutely, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. Another question I often hear is, “How can I adjust the spice level?” If you’re looking for less heat, simply reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce or omit it entirely for a milder version. As for serving suggestions, these shrimp pair beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the flavors. And don’t forget, they’re fantastic as a topping on tacos too—so versatile!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy, golden-brown shrimp that are simply irresistible
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
Flavor-packed with a delightful spicy kick, thanks to the creamy sauce
Great as an appetizer or a main dish—everyone will be coming back for more!
Customizable spice level to suit your taste, making it a crowd-pleaser
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Fried Bang Bang Shrimp, there are so many delicious options! I love pairing them with a refreshing cucumber salad or a zesty coleslaw to balance out the spice. For a heartier meal, serve them over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside some fluffy coconut rice. You could even turn it into a fun taco night by adding the shrimp to soft tortillas with some crunchy slaw and a drizzle of extra sauce. Yum!
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!