Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through how to prepare this scrumptious dish:
- Soak the Shrimp: Start by soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for about 30 minutes. This keeps them juicy.
- Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat Your Oil: Warm the oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Dredge the Shrimp: Take your soaked shrimp and dredge them well in the flour mixture.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully fry the shrimp in the hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to make the tasty sauce.
- Coat with Sauce: Toss the crispy shrimp in the sauce until each piece is well coated.
- Serve Immediately: Plate them up and enjoy your creation!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Crispy Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp is versatile! Here are a few enjoyable serving suggestions:
- Plate with Style: Serve it on a bed of lettuce or alongside a fresh salad for a delightful crunch.
- Pair with Dipping Sauces: Consider offering additional dipping sauces like soy sauce or extra sweet chili for those who love variety.
- Serve as an Appetizer: These shrimp make excellent starters at parties or casual get-togethers.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers—although it’s hard to imagine—here’s how to keep your bang bang shrimp fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat Safely: To retain their crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave.
- Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Ensure Even Cooking: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid crowding the pan, which can lead to less crispy shrimp.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha depending on your heat preference—more for those who love the spice!
- Experiment with Flavors: Add garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
Creative Twists
Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some creative variations to try:
- Coconut Bang Bang Shrimp: Substitute some flour for shredded coconut for a tropical twist!
- Asian-Inspired: Add scallions and sesame seeds to the sauce for a more authentic Asian flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour alternative to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Your Questions Answered
- What is the prep time for Crispy Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp? Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, plus 30 minutes for soaking the shrimp.
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before soaking in buttermilk.
- How spicy is this recipe? The level of spiciness can be adjusted by controlling the amount of sriracha in the sauce—make it milder or spicier according to taste!
With this Crispy Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe, you’re all set to create a dish that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
