This crispy bang bang shrimp recipe features tender shrimp coated in a light batter and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The dish is known for its spicy, creamy sauce that adds a delightful kick to the shrimp.
Preparing this dish is simple and quick, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a tasty appetizer for gatherings.
Overview of Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang bang shrimp is a delightful dish that marries crispy textures with a creamy, spicy sauce.
This dish is often served as an appetizer, making it a popular choice for gatherings or casual dinners.
The combination of golden-brown shrimp and a zesty sauce creates a flavor profile that is both exciting and satisfying.
Preparation and Cooking Process
The preparation of bang bang shrimp is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Start by ensuring the shrimp are clean and dry, which helps the batter adhere better during cooking.
Setting up a breading station with flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs is essential for achieving that perfect crunch.
Once the shrimp are breaded, they are cooked in an air fryer, which allows for a crispy finish without the need for deep frying.
Cooking at a high temperature ensures that the shrimp turn golden brown while remaining tender inside.
Bang Bang Sauce: The Star of the Dish
The bang bang sauce is what truly elevates this dish.
A blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha creates a creamy and spicy dip that perfectly complements the shrimp.
Adjusting the amount of sriracha allows you to customize the heat level to your preference.
This sauce can be tossed with the shrimp or served on the side for dipping, providing flexibility in how you enjoy the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation plays a significant role in the enjoyment of bang bang shrimp.
Arranging the shrimp neatly on a plate and drizzling them with the sauce creates an inviting look.
Garnishing with chopped green onions and lime wedges adds a pop of color and freshness.
Serving this dish on a rustic wooden table enhances its appeal, making it perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests.
Nutritional Information
This dish serves four and is relatively balanced in terms of nutrition.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides a good amount of protein alongside healthy fats.
The use of shrimp as the main ingredient ensures a lean source of protein, making it a satisfying option for many diets.
Variations and Tips
While the classic bang bang shrimp is always a hit, there are various ways to put a twist on the recipe.
Consider adding different spices to the panko mixture for an extra kick or experimenting with different dipping sauces.
For those looking for a lighter option, baking the shrimp instead of air frying can also yield delicious results.
Regardless of how you choose to prepare it, bang bang shrimp is sure to impress with its crispy texture and bold flavors.
Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
This recipe yields crispy shrimp tossed in a homemade bang bang sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It takes about 25 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.
- Bread the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp in flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally coat with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until well combined.
- Serve: Toss the cooked shrimp in the bang bang sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with lime wedges.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g