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Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Zesty Sauce

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizers u0026amp; Snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar as substitute)
  • 1 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
  • For the Zesty Bang Bang Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice (for tang)
  • Garnish:
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels. Place them in a bowl with buttermilk. Let them soak for 10 minutes (this helps tenderize and coat them for dredging).
  • Prepare the Coating: In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to cover shrimp (about 2 inches deep). Heat to 350°F (175°C).
  • Coat and Fry Shrimp: Remove shrimp from buttermilk, shake off excess liquid. Dredge in the flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing lightly to coat evenly. Fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  • Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar/lime juice until smooth.
  • Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Toss fried shrimp in the sauce until coated evenly. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping (to maintain maximum crispiness).
  • Garnish u0026 Serve: Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs before serving.