Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the star of the dish, providing a succulent and tender bite.

Buttermilk: Used to soak the shrimp, it helps to tenderize and add a slight tangy flavor.

Cornstarch: This creates a light, crispy coating when the shrimp are fried.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness.

Sweet chili sauce: Adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the sauce.

Sriracha: Brings heat and a touch of garlic to the sauce.

When frying the shrimp, make sure the oil is at the right temperature, around 350°F. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will cook too quickly on the outside and remain undercooked inside. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for perfect, crispy shrimp.

• shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can mimic the texture and absorb the flavors well, making it a suitable alternative for those who do not consume seafood.

• buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency, making it a good alternative for buttermilk.

• cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used to coat the shrimp, although it may not provide the same crispiness as cornstarch.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.

• sweet chili sauce - Substitute with honey and hot sauce: Mixing honey with hot sauce can replicate the sweet and spicy profile of sweet chili sauce.

• sriracha - Substitute with hot sauce: Any hot sauce can be used to provide the heat and flavor similar to sriracha, though the exact taste may vary slightly.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.
• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, consume within this period to maintain the crispy texture.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• If you prefer using a microwave, place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.
• To reheat frozen shrimp, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Avoid reheating shrimp in the microwave from frozen, as this can result in a rubbery texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the shrimp.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method is great for keeping the shrimp crispy without adding extra oil.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This method is quick and helps retain the flavor of the sauce.

• Microwave Method: Place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. This method is the quickest but may result in less crispy shrimp.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on a toaster oven tray lined with foil. Heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. This method is convenient for small batches.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.

• Mixing bowl: Soak the shrimp in buttermilk in this bowl.

• Whisk: Whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.

• Frying pan: Heat oil in this pan to fry the shrimp.

• Tongs: Use these to turn the shrimp while frying and to remove them from the oil.

• Paper towels: Drain the fried shrimp on these to remove excess oil.

• Plate: Place the shrimp on this after draining to toss them in the sauce.

• Serving dish: Serve the coated shrimp on this dish.

• Knife: Chop green onions for garnish if desired.

• Cutting board: Use this as a surface to chop the green onions.

Prepare the sauce ahead: Mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in advance and store in the fridge.

Use pre-peeled shrimp: Buy shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save prep time.

Set up a dredging station: Arrange the buttermilk and cornstarch bowls next to each other for a quick coating process.

Heat oil while soaking: Start heating the oil while the shrimp are soaking in buttermilk to save time.

Double batch the sauce: Make extra sauce and store it for future use.