These Bang Bang Shrimp Bites are crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-tasty! Each bite is packed with tender shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Perfect as a fun appetizer or a party snack, they disappear fast! I always keep some on hand because who doesn’t love a little seafood magic? 🦐💫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, giving a nice bite. If shrimp isn’t available, you can substitute with chicken tenders or tofu for a different twist. Just remember to adjust cooking time accordingly!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add a delicious crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs are a fine alternative, though they won’t be quite as crispy. Adding a bit of crushed cornflakes can also work great!
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the Bang Bang sauce. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or vegan mayo if you prefer a plant-based option. Both will still give you a creamy texture.
Sriracha: This gives the sauce its spicy kick. Feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance, or use another hot sauce like chili garlic sauce for a different flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Fry Shrimp for a Crispy Texture?
Frying shrimp can seem tricky, but it’s simple when you follow a few tips for that perfect crunch!
- Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C). If it’s not hot, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Do not crowd the pan! Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and allow even cooking.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp once they’re golden brown. This helps keep them crispy as they drip off excess oil.
With these tips, your shrimp will turn out crispy and delicious every time! Enjoy plating and serving these tasty bites! 🦐
Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. You’ll have delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Bites ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Shrimp:
First, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them fry better, preventing sogginess. Set the shrimp aside for now.
2. Making the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and rice vinegar or lime juice. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it! If you want it spicier, add more sriracha; if you prefer it sweeter, add more honey. Set this sauce aside for later.
3. Setting Up Breading Stations:
In one shallow bowl, place the flour and mix in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. In a third bowl, pour the panko breadcrumbs. Now you’re ready to bread the shrimp!
4. Bread the Shrimp:
Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture first, making sure it’s coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, roll the shrimp in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing slightly so they stick well. Repeat this for all the shrimp.
5. Frying the Shrimp:
In a deep pan or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
6. Tossing Shrimp with Sauce:
Take the fried shrimp and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp and toss gently until they’re all evenly coated. Yum!
7. Serving:
Transfer the shrimp to a serving bowl lined with parchment paper. Garnish with the sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if you like. Serve immediately with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every crispy, creamy bite!
Enjoy your crispy, creamy, spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Bites!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely first. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or to soak them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry afterward to ensure a crispy finish when frying.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, though they won’t be as crunchy. For added crunch, you might consider crushing some cornflakes or using crushed crackers as a substitute.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to a few days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, note that they are best enjoyed fresh and will lose their crispiness upon reheating. For optimal results, you can reheat them in an air fryer or oven to regain some crunch.
