Bang Bang Shrimp Bites are crisp, tasty pieces of shrimp coated in a creamy and spicy sauce. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these little bites pack a punch!
They’re so good that you’ll want to share, but good luck with that! 😄 I love serving these with toothpicks for easy munching at parties. They’re always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work perfectly in this dish. If you can’t find fresh shrimp or want a simpler option, frozen shrimp is just as good! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the shrimp a delightful crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture may be less crispy. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the Bang Bang sauce. If you’re looking to lighten it up, Greek yogurt is a tasty substitute that adds a bit of tanginess. For vegan options, use a plant-based mayo.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and a slight kick. If it’s not available, you can mix honey with a bit of hot sauce to get a similar flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Fried Shrimp Stay Crispy?
Keeping your shrimp crispy comes down to a few important steps:
- Be sure to pat your shrimp dry before breading them; moisture can make them soggy.
- Fry in batches and don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps maintain the oil temperature.
- Let them drain on paper towels right after frying; this keeps them from sitting in oil and losing their crunch.
Additionally, drizzle or toss the fried shrimp with sauce just before serving. This way, they stay crisp until they hit the plate! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll have crispy, spicy shrimp ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy later. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Create a simple breading station using three bowls: put flour in one, beat the eggs in a second bowl, and place panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl. This will make coating the shrimp easy!
3. Bread the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to coat each shrimp! Dip each one first into the flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they stick well.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a tiny piece of bread; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully place the breaded shrimp in the hot oil in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
6. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the shrimp are cooking, mix all the Bang Bang Sauce ingredients in a bowl. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy—this will be your delicious dipping sauce!
7. Coat Your Shrimp:
Once all the shrimp are fried, toss them in some of the Bang Bang sauce, or drizzle the sauce over the shrimp bites for added flavor.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange the shrimp on a serving plate lined with paper towels. Scatter the sliced green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve immediately with the extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy these crispy, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Bites as an irresistible appetizer that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture may be less crispy. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crunchy finish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help regain their crispiness.
Can I Make Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may separate slightly over time.
