Bang Bang Shrimp Bites are crispy little pieces of shrimp covered in a sweet and spicy sauce. They’re perfect for appetizers or fun finger foods at a party.
Who can resist these tasty bites? They’re so good, you’ll want to keep munching! I love to serve them with some crunchy veggies or just by themselves. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe, but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider using smaller shrimp or even frozen shrimp. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a great crunch, but if you’re out, regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch. You can also use crushed cornflakes for an extra crunchy topping.
Mayonnaise: For the sauce, if you’re not a mayo fan, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo substitute. Both will give you a creamy texture but with a different flavor.
Sriracha: The Sriracha adds spice, but if you prefer milder flavors, trade it for a bit of ketchup or BBQ sauce, or just use less. You can also use any hot sauce you enjoy!
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp Stay Crispy After Frying?
Frying the shrimp to a perfect crisp is key for Bang Bang Shrimp Bites. Here’s how to keep them crispy:
- **Pat Dry:** Always pat the shrimp dry before breading them. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking.
- **Heat Oil Properly:** Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F/175°C). If the temperature is too low, the shrimp will absorb the oil and become soggy.
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- **Drain Well:** Once fried, place the shrimp on paper towels to drain excess oil, which helps keep them crispy.
These simple tips will help your Bang Bang Shrimp remain crunchy and delicious until serving!
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 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
For Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lime juice
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of preparation time and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying, totaling around 30-35 minutes to enjoy these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Shrimp:
First things first, make sure your shrimp are nice and dry. Pat them with paper towels to remove excess moisture and set them aside to prep for coating.
2. Make the Batter and Coating:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix it well. In another bowl, beat your eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, add your panko breadcrumbs. You’re set up for coating!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to coat the shrimp! Take each shrimp and dip it into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently so they stick well to every little piece of shrimp.
4. Fry the Shrimp:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Prepare Bang Bang Sauce:
While your shrimp are frying, let’s whip up the Bang Bang sauce! In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until everything is combined and smooth.
6. Assemble the Bites:
Now that your shrimp are crispy and your sauce is ready, it’s time to put them together! Arrange the shrimp on a serving platter and either drizzle over some Bang Bang sauce or serve it in a small bowl for dipping—your choice!
7. Garnish:
For that final touch, sprinkle the sliced green onions, jalapeños, and chopped cilantro over your shrimp. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!
Enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Bites—crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. Thaw frozen shrimp by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko on hand, regular breadcrumbs will work fine. For a crunchier texture, crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers can be a great substitute!
How Can I Store Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes, turning occasionally, to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving to remix any separated ingredients.
