Bang Bang Shrimp

Hello, did you miss me? I am back after a long summer vacation. We went to Jamaica, India and Chicago and I’m now back in the kitchen after about a month’s hiatus. Today’s recipe is Bang Bang Shrimp- my teen’s favorite, and super easy to make at home too.

Bang Bang Shrimp is believed to have emerged from Thai and Chinese cuisine. The dish’s unique name is a derivation from the action of tossing the crispy shrimp in the sauce, producing a ‘bang’ sound as they come into contact. Over time, the recipe made its way into the menus of various American restaurants, where it was adapted to suit local palates. Although its origins are deeply rooted in Asian cuisine, this dish has evolved into a beloved and highly popular staple that has captured the hearts of food aficionados worldwide. Succulent shrimp are coated with a light, crispy coating that adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. The real magic, however, lies in the signature sauce- a tantalizing zesty one, with just the right amount of spicy heat. Creamy and velvety, it possesses a balanced blend of sweetness, heat, and tanginess that lingers on the palate. Check out some unique ways to experiment with the textures and flavors in the Notes section and feel free to add your own unique touch to elevate this classic dish to new heights of gastronomic excellence @sarchakra

PREP TIME: 10 mins

COOK TIME: 10 mins

YIELDS: Serves 3

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Shrimp 16-20, peeled & deveined
Buttermilk 1 cup
Salt ½ tsp
Black pepper 2 tsp
Garlic powder 2 tsp
Onion powder 2 tsp
Creole seasoning 2 tsp
Smoked paprika 2 tsp
Panko breadcrumbs ½ cup
Self raising flour ½ cup
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise ¼ cup
Thai sweet chili sauce ¼ cup
Sriracha 3 tbsp
Honey 1 tbsp
Rice vinegar 1 tsp
Garlic powder 1 tsp

For Garnish

Cilantro or parsley, freshly chopped (optional)
Green onions, sliced (optional)
Sesame seeds (optional)

Method

Clean the shrimp and pat dry. In a medium bowl, soak the peeled and deveined shrimp in the buttermilk. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar and garlic powder. Adjust the sriracha to your desired level of spiciness. Set the sauce aside.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, Panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, onion powder, creole seasoning. Drain the shrimp from the buttermilk and dredge in the seasoned flour mixture. Coat completely, ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated.
In a large skillet heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil. Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried shrimp with the prepared Bang Bang sauce until well coated.
Arrange the coated shrimp on a serving platter. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds over the top for added flavor and presentation.
Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp while they are still warm and crispy. They make an excellent appetizer or main dish. Provide extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Soaking the shrimp in buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp and adds flavor.

Here are a few creative ideas to take your Bang Bang Shrimp to the next level

Fusion of Flavors: Blend cultural influences by infusing elements from different cuisines. Incorporate ingredients like mango, cilantro, or coconut milk to create a tropical twist that complements the dish’s existing profile.

Textural Play: Enhance the textural experience by incorporating contrasting elements. Top the dish with toasted sesame seeds, crushed nuts, crispy shallots, or pomegranate arils to give your shrimp an extra layer of mouthwatering texture and an unexpected burst of flavor.

Spice Infusion: Experiment with a variety of chili peppers to elevate the heat factor. Whether its smoky chipotle peppers or fiery habaneros, finding the perfect pepper can add a new dimension to the dish.

Sauce Variations: Craft your own unique sauce. Apart from a fusion of honey and sriracha, a tangy yogurt-based sauce, or a citrusy vinaigrette all provide an exciting alternative.

Veggie Delight: Don’t limit the innovation to just shrimp! Incorporate crispy tofu or even cauliflower florets for a vegetarian twist that does not compromise on flavor.

Plating Aesthetics: Remember, we eat with our eyes first. Present your Bang Bang Shrimp in a visually appealing manner – as an elegant appetizer in individual serving spoons or atop a vibrant bed of fresh greens.

Global Fusion: Infuse the dish with flavors from different cuisines. For instance, experiment with adding elements of Indian spices, Mexican chilies, or Japanese umami to the sauce, creating a fusion that awakens new sensations.

Alternative Proteins: While shrimp is the star of the show, consider substituting it with other proteins such as tofu, other seafood like calamari, or chicken. This opens up a world of possibilities for different textures and tastes.

Sweet and Savory: Experiment with the sauce’s sweetness by incorporating unique ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or fruit preserves. This juxtaposition of sweet and savory will intrigue the palate.

Healthier Alternatives: For those seeking a lighter version, explore baking instead of frying the shrimp. Opt for Greek yogurt or a nut-based cream for the sauce, reducing the calorie count without compromising on flavor.

Deconstructed Presentation: Present the components of the dish separately, allowing diners to build their own bites. This interactive approach engages the senses and invites creativity at the table.

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