I have a favorite dish that never fails to impress friends and family: Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp. Picture crispy shrimp tossed in a luscious, spicy sauce that leaves everyone reaching for more. Whether you whip this up for a weeknight dinner or feature it as a classy appetizer at your next gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. The combination of rich flavors and satisfying crunch makes this recipe truly special.
Reasons to try it
So why should you cook Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp at home? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. This dish allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality food right in your own kitchen without the hefty price tag. Plus, with just a few ingredients, it’s budget-friendly too. Kids and adults alike will find it irresistible, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or even casual get-togethers with friends. Imagine a Friday night with your loved ones diving into a plate of crispy, saucy shrimp, laughter filling the air—there’s nothing quite like it!
“Absolutely loved this dish! The shrimp were crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor. Definitely a new favorite for our family nights!” – Stefani H.
Step-by-step overview
Crafting Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp is straightforward and satisfying, involving a few simple steps. You’ll prepare a delicious sauce, coat the shrimp, fry to crunchy perfection, and then combine it all for an irresistible, mouthwatering dish. Here’s how it comes together:
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What you’ll need
Gather these essential ingredients for a successful batch of Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
Feel free to mix and match some ingredients—if you don’t have Sriracha, hot sauce works too!
Directions to follow
- Make the Sauce First: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
- Prep & Coat the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in buttermilk to coat, then dredge them in a mixture of cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels.
- Sauce It Up: While the shrimp are hot, toss them gently with the prepared bang bang sauce until well coated.
- Garnish & Serve: Plate the shrimp, sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions, and serve immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp, presentation is key. A simple serving idea is placing the shrimp on a beautiful platter with an extra bowl of sauce on the side for dipping. Pair it with a light salad or jasmine rice to balance the richness. You can even create a shrimp taco bar with soft tortillas, letting guests build their own tacos with shrimp, slaw, and extra sauce.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp can be a delicious treat for another day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to retain that crispy texture; microwaving may make the shrimp soggy. If you want to freeze, package the leftovers in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp, consider these cooking tips:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; test with a small piece of shrimp—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; this helps keep the oil temperature steady and gives you that crispy result.
- For an added twist, marinate the shrimp in some lime juice and garlic for a couple of hours before coating and frying for an extra flavor kick.
Creative twists
While the original recipe is fantastic, why not play around with it? Here are a few variations to consider:
- Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for different protein options.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the sauce or adjust the Sriracha to your liking.
- Add some citrus zest to the sauce for a lively brightness or try incorporating a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Making Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp generally takes about 30-40 minutes, including prep time and cooking.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure that you thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you’re out of buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice—let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp. Trust me; everyone will be begging you for the recipe!
