published Nov 11, 2022 I’m a huge fan of recipes that deliver huge flavor without a lot of fuss. Learning the art of sauce-making is a fun way to transform all kinds of dishes into works of art. Some of my favorite sauce recipes to have on hand include Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce, 5-Minute Tahini Yogurt Sauce, Lebanese Garlic Sauce or this Japanese Ginger Sauce. The possibilities are endless, of course, and it all depends on what cultural cuisine is on the menu. Today’s recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp has a Thai twist and features — you guessed it — Bang Bang sauce. This easy to make sauce requires only 5 ingredients and a few minutes. It makes a great dipping sauce too, so go ahead and try it with all your favorites. While this is not a traditional nor authentic Asian dish, it hails from the American restaurant chain Bonefish Grill and I thought I’d share with you my take on it. If you are looking for more shrimp recipes from different stops on the Silk Road, I have you covered. Try out this Greek Shrimp Saganaki, Sunomono Shrimp Cucumber Salad, or this Shrimp and Pork Shumai.
INGREDIENT NOTES AND SUBSTITUTIONS
Shrimp – This versatile seafood has a mild taste with sweet and salty hints. Make sure to choose peeled and deveined unless you want to do that part yourself. Buttermilk – This tangy milk tenderizes the shrimp without drying them out. If you don’t have any available, you can substitute regular milk with an added teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy texture and sour, tangy flavor to the sauce. Greek yogurt is an acceptable substitute if you are looking to lighten up the recipe. Chili Sauce – I like to use Thai sweet chili sauce for its balance of spicy, sweet, sour, and zesty. Check the international aisle at your grocery store or try out my homemade recipe.Sriracha – Hot sauce made from chili paste, vinegar, garlic, sugar and salt. Feel free to substitute your favorite hot sauce such as Tapatio, Tabasco, or Louisiana hot sauce. Honey – Adds sweetness to the sauce. Sesame Oil – Mild and nutty, this oil is used in the sauce and can be replaced with another mild tasting oil such as olive, grapeseed, avocado, or peanut.Cornstarch – Forms the crispy, crunchy breading on the shrimp. If needed, you can substitute flour — all-purpose, rice, or potato flour would be my top choices. Canola Oil – Used as the cooking oil in this recipe. If substituting, be sure to choose an oil with a higher smoke point, such as avocado, peanut, or sunflower oils. Green Onions – Adds the perfect pop of sharp, peppery flavor while adding a splash of color.
HOW TO MAKE BANG BANG SHRIMP
- Make the Sauce. Combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and sesame oil in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp. In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp in the buttermilk until well coated. Place the cornstarch close by on a plate or in another bowl.
- Heat the Skillet. Heat the canola oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 375 degrees F.
- Coat the Shrimp. Working in two batches, shake off any excess buttermilk from each shrimp before tossing into the cornstarch to thoroughly coat.
- Brown the Shrimp. Shake off any excess cornstarch and gently transfer each shrimp to the heated skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Shrimp should be a light golden brown and crispy on both sides. Move to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels, then repeat the process for the rest of the shrimp. Continue checking that your oil remains at 375 degrees F.
- Toss in the Sauce. Place all of the cooked shrimp in the bowl with the sauce and toss to evenly coat. Transfer to a serving plate or tray, top with chopped green onions, and serve immediately.
What Goes Well With Bang Bang Shrimp?
This recipe makes a dynamite appetizer or entree. It is best served with roasted vegetables, rice, noodles, or salad.
What Is Bang Bang Sauce Made Of?
This sauce is super easy to make and takes only a handful of ingredients. It consists of sriracha, sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, honey, and sesame oil. Put them in a bowl, mix it up, and bang, bang….there’s your sauce.
Why Is It Called Bang Bang Shrimp?
While this recipe is obviously Thai-inspired, the name “Bang Bang Shrimp” was coined, trademarked, and popularized by Bonefish Grill in the United States. Some theorize that the name refers to the double punch of sweet and spicy flavor that the dish delivers. The term “bang bang” in Asian cuisine has older origins. It originates with a popular Chinese chicken dish in which the cook bangs the meat with a stick.
How To Store Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Once ready to reheat, pop your shrimp in the oven to keep them crispy. Don’t forget to whip up a mini batch of sauce too!
