These Bang Bang Shrimp Bites are crispy, tasty pieces of shrimp coated in a spicy and creamy sauce. They’re perfect for sharing as a fun appetizer or snack!
Be ready for some serious munching because these bites are so good, you might end up eating them all yourself! I love serving them with a fresh salad or some rice for a full meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry. For a twist, you could use chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Panko breadcrumbs: These give the shrimp a crunchy coating. You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similar texture, though panko really offers that extra crispiness.
Shredded coconut: This is optional but adds a nice tropical flavor and crunch. If you’re not a coconut fan, simply skip it or replace it with additional breadcrumbs.
Mayonnaise: While traditional for the sauce, Greek yogurt can replace it for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, try an avocado mash for creaminess.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crunch When Frying?
Getting that crispy texture is key! Follow these tips for the best results:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before adding the shrimp; this helps them fry quickly and evenly.
- Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to soggy shrimp.
- Remove them from the oil once they’re golden brown—this ensures they don’t overcook and lose that nice crunch.
- Let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy until serving.
With these insights and techniques, your Bang Bang Shrimp Bites will turn out deliciously crunchy and full of flavor every time!
Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra crunch and flavor)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 10 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cool water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is important to eliminate excess moisture. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Prepare three separate bowls: In Bowl 1, add the all-purpose flour. In Bowl 2, beat the two eggs together. In Bowl 3, combine the panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut if you’re using it. This will help create that delightful crunchy texture on the shrimp!
3. Bread the Shrimp:
One by one, dip each shrimp first into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dunk them into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off before coating them in the panko-coconut mixture. Make sure they are fully coated for maximum crunch!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to check when the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), which is the ideal frying temperature for crispy shrimp.
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully place the breaded shrimp in the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
6. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the sriracha amount to your taste for spiciness!
7. Toss Shrimp in Sauce or Serve on the Side:
You can either toss the crispy shrimp lightly in the bang bang sauce to coat them or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Both options are delicious!
8. Plate and Garnish:
Arrange the shrimp bites around a small bowl filled with the bang bang sauce on a serving plate. For a lovely presentation, sprinkle with the chopped green onions.
9. Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Dig in while they’re warm and crispy. These bang bang shrimp bites are sure to be a hit!
This recipe yields a delightful blend of flavors and textures—perfect for any gathering or as a satisfying snack!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before using them. You can thaw overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning to ensure they fry up crispy!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for mayonnaise. For a dairy-free alternative, try using mashed avocado or a vegan mayo to keep it creamy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp can be stored 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 a few minutes to regain their crispiness, instead of using a microwave which can make them soggy!
What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Bites?
These shrimp bites are delicious on their own or served with various sides. Consider pairing them with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or even crunchy veggies for dipping. They also make a great addition to a party platter!
