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Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

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4 from 11 reviews

This Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe features tender shrimp marinated in a flavorful buttermilk blend, coated in cornstarch, and fried to golden perfection. Tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce and garnished with fresh chives, this appetizer is quick to prepare and delivers a perfect balance of crispy texture and bold flavors.

Ingredients

Shrimp 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

Breading & Frying

  • ¾ cup corn starch (or substitute with potato starch or tapioca starch)
  • Avocado oil, for frying (enough to fill 2 inches in your pot)

Garnish & Sauce

  • 4 ounces bang bang sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine buttermilk, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well until fully blended. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to this marinade, stirring to coat evenly. Set aside to allow the flavors to infuse while you prepare for frying.
  2. Coat the Shrimp: Remove each shrimp from the marinade individually, letting any excess drip off. Dip the shrimp into the cornstarch, coating both sides completely. Tap off any excess starch and lay the coated shrimp on a platter to prepare for frying.
  3. Heat the Oil: In a Dutch oven or medium pot, add about 2 inches of avocado oil and heat to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct frying temperature for a crispy result without greasiness.
  4. Fry the Shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each batch for 1 to 2 minutes or until the shrimp turn golden brown, crispy, and are cooked through. Flip halfway through frying if needed. Use a strainer to remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Toss with Bang Bang Sauce: Transfer the fried shrimp to a mixing bowl. Drizzle the 4 ounces of bang bang sauce over the shrimp and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly. Sprinkle with finely chopped chives as a fresh garnish. Serve these crispy, saucy shrimp immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for perfect frying.
  • Do not overcrowd the pot when frying as it lowers oil temperature and results in soggy shrimp.
  • Fresh gulf shrimp or wild-caught shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture.
  • Breading the shrimp just before frying helps maintain their crispiness.
  • Substitute bang bang sauce with a mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha if desired.