Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Chili Mayo at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Medium to large shrimp (U31-40); 1 cup Buttermilk; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup Cornstarch; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (High-quality preferred); 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha Hot Sauce (Adjust according to heat preference)

The scent of sizzling shrimp fills the air, transporting me to a cozy corner of my favorite Asian fusion restaurant. Today, I’m thrilled to share my homemade version of Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Chili Mayo—a dish that’s not just delicious but also quick and easy to whip up! With succulent shrimp coated in a light and crispy batter, this recipe shows you that you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right in your own kitchen. Bonus: It’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for appetizers or simply served over rice or in tacos for a hearty, satisfying meal. Are you ready to bring the taste of takeout home? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Why is Bang Bang Shrimp so popular?

Crispy Perfection: Each bite of this Bang Bang Shrimp offers an irresistible crunch, combining tender shrimp with a light golden batter that will have your taste buds dancing.

Bold, Creamy Sauce: The spicy chili mayo adds a delicious kick, blending creamy richness with a touch of heat that elevates the dish beyond simple fried shrimp.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Fun Variations: Try serving it in tacos or over ramen for a creative twist! Looking for a fusion idea? Check out my Bang Bang Salmon for another delicious take.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something special, this dish guarantees happy faces around the table. You’ll love making this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your home!

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Medium to large shrimp – Aim for U31-40 shrimp to ensure tenderness and a satisfying bite.
• Buttermilk – This helps tenderize the shrimp and ensures the batter sticks well.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth, making the shrimp mouthwatering.
• Onion Powder – Complements garlic beautifully, adding another layer of flavor.
• Black Pepper – Provides a mild heat to the shrimp; adjust to taste.

For the Coating
• Cornstarch – Essential for achieving that light, crispy texture; it’s the magic ingredient!

For the Spicy Chili Mayo Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Acts as the base, and high-quality options enhance the flavor significantly.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a subtle sweetness and mild heat, key to the sauce’s signature taste.
• Sriracha Hot Sauce – This is where the spice kicks in; adjust according to your heat preference.

Feel free to experiment with your Bang Bang Shrimp ingredients, adjusting them to your taste or dietary needs!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the shrimp to this mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature. This step enhances the shrimp’s flavor and helps the batter adhere better for that perfect Bang Bang Shrimp crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp marinate, set up your coating station. Pour cornstarch into a shallow dish, spreading it evenly for easy dredging. This ingredient is essential for achieving a crispy exterior on your Bang Bang Shrimp. Place a baking sheet lined with parchment paper nearby to transfer the coated shrimp once they are ready.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp
After marinating, individually dredge each shrimp in cornstarch, making sure to shake off any excess. This creates a light and airy coating. Place the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. This step is crucial for the shrimp to fry evenly later on.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large heavy pot, pour in enough oil to reach about 1 ½ inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F, using a thermometer for accuracy. When the oil shimmers and small bubbles form around the edges, it’s time to fry the shrimp. Be patient, as the right temperature ensures crispy, golden shrimp.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in small batches, ensuring they have enough space to fry evenly. Cook for about 2 minutes or until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked shrimp and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate for draining excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Spicy Chili Mayo
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until the mixture is creamy and well-combined. Taste and adjust the Sriracha for your desired level of spiciness. This tasty sauce will coat your fried Bang Bang Shrimp beautifully, adding that signature flavor.

Step 7: Toss and Serve
Once the shrimp are done frying, add them to the bowl with the spicy chili mayo. Gently toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs or green onions if desired. Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp with rice, tacos, or on their own as a delectable appetizer!

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Bang Bang Shrimp with exciting twists that tantalize your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a splash of vinegar for a creamy alternative.
Using nut-based milks can provide a lighter touch while maintaining tenderness.
Gluten-Free: Swap cornstarch with a gluten-free flour mix for a crispy coating that all can enjoy.
Your Bang Bang Shrimp will still deliver that delightful crunch without compromising flavor.
Vegetarian: Use crispy tofu cubes instead of shrimp for a plant-based delight.
Tofu absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an excellent choice to soak up that spicy chili mayo.
Spicy Kick: Add minced jalapeños to the spicy chili mayo for an extra layer of heat.
This variation will take your taste experience to fiery new heights, satisfying spicy food lovers!
Asian Fusion: Serve the shrimp over a bed of sesame noodles for a fun twist on the classic dish.
Each bite combines the vibrant flavors of the shrimp with the taste of chewy, flavorful noodles!
Sriracha-Free: Swap Sriracha for a mild hot sauce or reduce the amount to make it kid-friendly.
You can create a delicious sauce that doesn’t overwhelm sensitive palates yet still packs flavor.
Zesty Citrus: Drizzle fresh lime juice over the finished shrimp for a bright, zesty finish.
This brightens the dish perfectly, adding a refreshing note that contrasts well with the creamy sauce.
Seafood Tacos: Use the Bang Bang Shrimp as a filling for soft tacos topped with coleslaw.
This creative presentation is sure to impress at your next gathering, combining flavors and textures beautifully.

For more variations, consider combining it with other recipes, like the delightful Bang Bang Salmon for a seafood fiesta! Enjoy experimenting!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk (with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper) up to 24 hours in advance to enhance their flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch ahead of time and refrigerate them in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious meal, simply heat the oil and fry the shrimp until they’re golden brown, then toss them in the spicy chili mayo. This method ensures your Bang Bang Shrimp will be just as mouthwatering and crispy, giving you restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it in the fridge to maintain quality and prevent spoilage.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the Bang Bang Shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make the shrimp soggy. Instead, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and crispy again.

Serving Suggestions: When ready to serve, toss them in the spicy chili mayo just before serving to keep the shrimp crispy and flavorful!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F before frying. Use a thermometer for the best results—too cool oil will lead to greasy shrimp, while too hot can burn them.
Marination Duration: Marinate the shrimp for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness. Skipping this step can lead to bland and chewy shrimp.
Batch Frying: Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature. This helps achieve that coveted crispy texture without overcrowding the pot.
Adjusting Spice: Don’t hesitate to modify the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to suit your heat tolerance. This gives you the freedom to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp at your preferred spice level.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to preserve that delicious crunch.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delectable dish with complementary flavors and textures that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Jasmine Rice: This fluffy, fragrant rice serves as a perfect canvas for the shrimp’s spicy sauce, absorbing every bit of flavor.
Fresh Slaw: A crunchy vegetable slaw with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite that beautifully balances the richness of the shrimp and sauce.
Soft Tacos: Use warm corn tortillas to create fresh tacos, topped with fresh slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a fun twist.
Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad offers a cool and crunchy contrast, enhancing the shrimp’s crispy texture while providing a refreshing palate cleanse.
Sautéed Garlic Green Beans: These tender green beans sprinkled with garlic bring a savory note that pairs wonderfully with the crispy shrimp.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa contributes a fruity punch that elevates the dish. It’s fabulous served alongside or on top of the shrimp.
Cold Beer or Sparkling Wine: A light lager or sparkling wine complements the mouthwatering spices of the bang bang shrimp perfectly, providing a refreshing counterpoint.
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge your sweet tooth with a rich chocolate mousse for dessert; it contrasts beautifully with the shrimp’s heat, leaving a delightful end to the meal.

Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use?
I recommend using medium to large shrimp, preferably U31-40, for the best texture and bite. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen, peeled, and deveined shrimp works just as well; just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation that can make them soggy.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them individually. After they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven for the best crispiness!

What can I do if the batter isn’t sticking to the shrimp?
If the batter isn’t adhering properly, it may be because the shrimp were not marinated long enough or the coating was too thick. Ensure that the shrimp are fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture for at least 10 minutes. When dredging, shake off any excess cornstarch to keep the coating light, allowing it to stick better.

Is Bang Bang Shrimp suitable for everyone?
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser but may not be suitable for those with fish or shellfish allergies. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider substituting the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a delicious variation while keeping the same flavorful sauce.