Bang Bang Shrimp Bites are small, crispy shrimp tossed in a spicy and creamy sauce that makes your mouth water! They’re perfect for a fun appetizer or a tasty snack!
These little bites pack a punch with flavor; they’re spicy, sweet, and so good! I like to serve them with some fresh veggies on the side for a colorful touch. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using medium shrimp works best for these bites. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use shrimp that is already cooked and just needs reheating. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using breaded cauliflower or chickpeas.
Buttermilk: This helps create a tender shrimp. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes. It will give a similar tangy flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a lovely crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs are fine, but they won’t be quite as crispy. You can also crush up some cornflakes for a unique texture!
Bang Bang Sauce: The sauce has a sweet and spicy kick! If you prefer less heat, start with only 1 tablespoon of sriracha. For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Turns Out Crispy?
For perfectly crispy shrimp, the coating and frying technique are key! Here’s how to get that crunch:
- Ensure shrimp are well-dried before soaking in buttermilk; moisture can prevent a good crust.
- Take your time while frying. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. This also helps maintain the oil temperature, making your shrimp crispy.
- After frying, place shrimp on paper towels immediately to absorb excess oil, which maintains that crunch.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’ll impress everyone with your Bang Bang Shrimp Bites! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp Bites:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 to 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust for preferred heat)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lime juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total: 20 minutes for preparing and soaking the shrimp, and around 10 minutes for frying and assembling. It’s a quick and fun dish to make for gatherings or a treat at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Place the cleaned shrimp in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Let them soak for about 20 minutes to tenderize and add flavor.
2. Make the Coating:
While the shrimp are soaking, take a shallow bowl and mix together the all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your shrimp a delicious, crispy coating when fried.
3. Heat the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pot so that the oil is about 1-2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A kitchen thermometer can help check the temperature!
4. Coat the Shrimp:
Once the shrimp have soaked, take them out of the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Now, coat each shrimp in the flour mixture, making sure to press lightly to ensure they are well-covered.
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in small batches—this helps keep the oil temperature steady. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Mix the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until everything is well combined and smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes Bang Bang Shrimp special!
7. Combine and Serve:
Gently toss the fried shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce until they are nicely coated—add more sauce to your liking! Serve the shrimp bites on a platter with any extra sauce on the side for dipping.
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish your dish with chopped cilantro or parsley and a few lime wedges for squeezing over the shrimp. These add freshness and a little zing to your dish!
Enjoy your crispy, spicy, creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Bites! Perfect for parties or a delightful snack at home!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before using. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in a sealed bag in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Bang Bang Shrimp Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and the Bang Bang sauce in advance. Store the fried shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge, and reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness before tossing them in the sauce!
What Should I Serve With Bang Bang Shrimp Bites?
These shrimp bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! You can serve them with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or crispy fries. They also make a great appetizer with cocktails or as part of a larger meal spread.
How to Store Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help them regain their crisp texture instead of the microwave, which can make them soggy.
