Introduction
If you’re craving a culinary adventure that’s both spicy and sweet, look no further than this delightful Bang Bang Shrimp recipe! Imagine juicy, succulent shrimp perfectly coated in a crunchy, golden-brown exterior, all while being enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that packs a flavorful punch. It’s a dish that combines simplicity with gourmet flair, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an irresistible appetizer to dazzle your guests. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures tenderness and adds a wonderful flavor base.
- While the shrimp are soaking, prepare your coating. In another bowl, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of spices.
- In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat, ensuring there’s enough to submerge the shrimp.
- Once the shrimp have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk, letting any excess dribble off.
- Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated for that perfect crunch.
- Carefully fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, cooking until they are golden and crispy—about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once done, remove the shrimp from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice to create the irresistible Bang Bang sauce.
- Gently toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until they are well coated, ensuring each piece is bursting with flavor.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired for an extra touch of flair!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce based on your heat preference!
- For an even crispier texture, you can double-dip the shrimp by soaking them again in buttermilk after the first dredge and then back into the flour mixture.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp; a test piece should bubble vigorously when placed in the oil.
Cooking Techniques
Perfectly frying shrimp requires a bit of attention to detail. Make sure the oil is heated to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the shrimp to create that golden brown crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp. Frying in small batches will ensure each piece has enough space to fry evenly.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure to thaw them completely before soaking in buttermilk.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or even tacos for a fun twist!
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp is truly a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. With its crispy texture and creamy, spicy sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a gathering or enjoying it as a main dish, this recipe is a sure-fire way to impress. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!