Bang Bang Shrimp Bites are crispy little morsels that pack a punch! With juicy shrimp coated in a crispy batter and drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce, they’re simply addicting.
They’re perfect for parties or as a tasty snack. Trust me, it’s hard to eat just one! I like to serve them with some extra sauce for dipping—just in case you want to get a little extra saucy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best for this recipe, but you can also use large shrimp if preferred. If you’re not a seafood fan, try chicken or tofu for a similar crunch.
Panko Breadcrumbs: This gives a light, crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work; just know they won’t be as crunchy. You could also try crushed cornflakes as a fun alternative!
Shredded Coconut: Adding coconut is optional, but it adds a nice flavor and crunch. If you’re not a fan, simply skip it or replace it with crushed nuts for an extra crunch!
Bang Bang Sauce: This creamy sauce is what really makes these shrimp pop! For a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayo. You can also adjust the sriracha for more or less heat based on your taste.
How Do You Get the Shrimp Extra Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispy coating on shrimp is all about the breading process. First, make sure to completely dry the shrimp to help the batter stick better. Following these steps will help:
- Use a three-part dredging system: flour mixture, egg wash, and then panko. This keeps the coating thick and crunchy.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough (350°F). If it’s not hot, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady for perfect crispiness!
Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp Bites:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra crunch and flavor)
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice or rice vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and enjoyable process, so you can be munching on your crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Bites in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the breading stick better. Once dry, set them aside while you get the breading station ready!
2. Make the Breading Station:
In one bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut (if you’re using it). This will make your shrimp extra crunchy!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and first dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs until it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the panko-coconut mixture, pressing slightly so it sticks. Set each coated shrimp aside on a plate.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan or a fryer, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature; this helps the shrimp fry up crispy!
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. When done, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the shrimp are frying, whip up the bang bang sauce! In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust the spice level to your liking!
7. Serve:
Once the shrimp are done, arrange them beautifully on a serving platter. Drizzle some bang bang sauce on top for a splash of flavor, or serve it on the side for dipping. Either way, they’ll taste amazing!
8. Garnish:
To make your dish pop, sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped cilantro or parsley over the shrimp bites. This adds a touch of freshness and color to your presentation.
Enjoy your crispy, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Bites! They’re absolutely perfect for sharing or simply indulging in as a delightful snack or appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before breading.
Can I Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the bang bang sauce can be made in advance! You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate a bit.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be as crispy. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or even crushed tortilla chips can add a nice crunch as well!
How Should I Store Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best crispness, instead of using the microwave.
