Description
This Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp marinated in a flavorful buttermilk mixture, coated in a crunchy corn starch crust, and fried to golden perfection. Tossed in a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce and garnished with fresh chives, this appetizer or main dish is perfect for seafood lovers craving a crispy, spicy, and satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Coating
- ¾ cup corn starch (or substitute with potato starch or tapioca starch)
- Avocado oil (for frying shrimp, about 2 inches deep in pot)
Garnish and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon chives (finely chopped for garnish)
- 4 ounces bang bang sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine buttermilk, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Marinate the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, stirring gently to coat all pieces evenly. Let it sit while you prepare for frying to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Coat the shrimp: Remove shrimp one at a time from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dip both sides of each shrimp into the corn starch, ensuring a full, even coating. Tap off any excess starch and place the coated shrimp on a platter.
- Heat the oil: Pour avocado oil into a dutch oven or deep pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C), using a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the shrimp: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully lower shrimp into the hot oil. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning halfway through if necessary, until they are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Drain and rest: Use a strainer or slotted spoon to remove shrimp from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Toss in bang bang sauce: Place the crispy shrimp in a bowl, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and gently toss to coat each piece evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle finely chopped chives over the shrimp and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature remains around 375°F to achieve perfect crispiness without sogginess.
- Do not overcrowd the pot when frying to maintain oil temperature and even cooking.
- Substitute corn starch with potato or tapioca starch for a similar crispy texture.
- Bang bang sauce can be homemade or store-bought, typically a mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
- Serve immediately for the best crispy texture; shrimp may lose their crunch after sitting too long.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crispy shrimp, bang bang shrimp, fried shrimp, appetizer, spicy shrimp, seafood appetizer, crunchy shrimp
