Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe with Sweet Chili Mayo

Oh, sweet friends, do you remember those dishes that just burst onto the scene and capture everyone’s hearts? For me, the Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is exactly that—a magical concoction that perfectly balances a delightful crunch with a creamy, spicy-sweet kick. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite, bringing a little spark of joy to the everyday. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, transforming simple shrimp into something truly extraordinary.

Growing up, my grandmother always said that the best meals were made with a little bit of love and a lot of flair. I remember trying to recreate restaurant favorites in her kitchen, sometimes with glorious success, other times with comical failures! But it was those experiments that taught me the most, and bringing flavors like this vibrant Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe into our home kitchen has become one of my greatest delights.

This recipe is a true gem—it’s wonderfully approachable, meaning even a beginner can achieve stunning results, and it’s a fantastic way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. My top tip for dishes like this is always to taste as you go; your palate is your best guide to creating perfect harmony!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful soup begins with a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The large raw shrimp and fragrant spices lay the foundation for the crispy texture, while the mayonnaise, sweet chili, and Sriracha create that irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe sauce. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below, ready to guide your culinary adventure.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Whipping up this incredible Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is an enjoyable journey in four simple steps. First, we prepare the shrimp to a crispy golden perfection. Then, we whisk together that iconic sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce. Next, a creamy, aromatic soup base comes together on the stovetop. Finally, we combine these flavorful components, garnishing with fresh herbs and sesame seeds for a dish that’s truly unforgettable.

A close-up of a plate of crispy Bang Bang Shrimp, tossed in a creamy spicy sauce and garnished with sliced green onions.

Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Soup

Dive into a bowl of this comforting Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Soup, featuring crispy, saucy shrimp nestled in a rich, flavorful coconut-curry broth. It’s a delightful fusion that brings the beloved Bang Bang Shrimp experience into a cozy, spoonable format.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion
Calories: 700

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Shrimp
  • 1 lb large raw shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
For the Bang Bang Sauce
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp lime juice freshly squeezed
For the Creamy Soup Base
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tbsp red curry paste adjust to spice preference
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 can full-fat coconut milk 13.5 oz / approx 1 3/4 cups
  • 1 tsp brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Large Skillet or Deep Fryer
  • Whisk
  • Several Mixing Bowls
  • Tongs
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Prepare the Shrimp
  1. Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Dip each shrimp first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place coated shrimp on a clean plate or wire rack.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Soup Base
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until aromatic.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Add the brown sugar and fish sauce. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
  4. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed (add more fish sauce for savory, sugar for sweet, or Sriracha for heat).
Assemble and Serve
  1. In a clean bowl, gently toss the crispy fried shrimp with about half of the prepared Bang Bang Sauce, ensuring the shrimp are well coated.
  2. Ladle the hot creamy soup base into individual serving bowls. Top each bowl generously with the sauced crispy Bang Bang Shrimp.
  3. Drizzle any remaining Bang Bang Sauce over the shrimp and soup. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving immediately.

Notes

For an extra kick, add more Sriracha to both the Bang Bang sauce and the soup base. You can also add thinly sliced red bell pepper or shredded carrots to the soup base along with the broth for added vegetables and color. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove. Keep the crispy shrimp separate and add them right before serving to maintain their crunch.

Pro Tips for Making This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is all about those little touches that elevate a good dish to an extraordinary one. I’ve gathered a few of my favorite insights to help you achieve that magic right in your own kitchen.

My Secret Trick: When preparing the shrimp, make sure not to overcrowd your pan when frying. Frying in batches ensures each piece gets wonderfully crispy and golden brown, rather than steaming. This makes all the difference in achieving that satisfying crunch!

For the Bang Bang sauce, don’t be afraid to adjust the heat to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, scale back on the Sriracha. For those who love a fiery kick, a little extra Sriracha and a pinch of red pepper flakes can transform this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe into a spicy sensation.

To ensure your soup base is incredibly smooth and lump-free, I always recommend whisking your full-fat coconut milk and red curry paste thoroughly before adding them to the broth. This prevents any clumping and helps the flavors meld beautifully into a velvety texture.

Lastly, taste your creamy soup base before assembling. Adjust the brown sugar and fish sauce until you find that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami. A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens all the flavors, making this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe sing!

Fun Variations for Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

The beauty of a beloved recipe is how it can evolve and adapt to our cravings and what we have on hand. This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is wonderfully versatile, inviting you to play with flavors and textures.

Spice it Up or Tone it Down

If you’re serving a crowd with varying spice preferences, consider having extra Sriracha on the side for those who love an extra kick. For a milder version, you can reduce the Sriracha in the main sauce and add a touch more sweet chili sauce or honey. My sister always asks me to swirl in a little extra lime for brightness!

Veggie Boost

To add more goodness to your soup, feel free to toss in some quick-cooking vegetables during the last few minutes of simmering. Thinly sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or a handful of fresh spinach would be wonderful additions, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value in this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe.

Protein Alternatives

While shrimp is the star here, you could easily adapt this recipe with other proteins. Cubed chicken breast or firm tofu, pan-fried until golden, would also be delicious, offering a different texture while still embracing that incredible Bang Bang flavor profile.

What to Serve With Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

This delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is truly a meal in itself, but a few simple accompaniments can make it an even more memorable experience. Think about balancing its rich, creamy, and spicy notes with something fresh and light.

I love serving this vibrant soup with a side of fluffy white rice, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible broth. Sometimes, I’ll even add a sprinkle of extra toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions right before serving, just like my mom always taught me to add a little flourish. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a lovely contrast, cutting through the richness beautifully. For a touch of comfort, a warm piece of crusty bread or garlic naan is always a welcome addition alongside this delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe.

Storing Your Bang Bang Shrimp Soup

After pouring your heart into making this delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe, you’ll want to ensure any leftovers are stored properly so you can enjoy them again later. With just a few simple steps, you can keep the flavors fresh and vibrant for another delightful meal.

Fridge Storage

Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always recommend storing the crispy shrimp separately if you have any leftovers, as they tend to lose their crunch when submerged in the soup for too long.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe again, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through. If you stored the crispy shrimp separately, you can quickly warm them in a dry skillet or a toaster oven to regain some of their crispness before adding them to the hot soup. A fresh squeeze of lime juice after reheating truly brings it back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe offers a delightful balance of indulgence and wholesome goodness. Packed with lean protein from the shrimp and beneficial fats from the coconut milk, it’s a satisfying meal. The fresh ginger and garlic add not only incredible flavor but also provide natural anti-inflammatory properties, making it a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing for the body.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I make the Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the soup base a day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator. Fry the shrimp and assemble the Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe right before serving to ensure the best texture and freshness for those crispy components.

Faq 2

What if I don’t have fresh ginger or garlic?
While fresh is always best for this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every tablespoon of fresh. Adjust to your taste preferences.

Faq 3

Is this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe gluten-free?
To make this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for coating the shrimp. Ensure your broth and sauces are also certified gluten-free.

Faq 4

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but it won’t be crispy. For this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe, I highly recommend starting with raw shrimp to achieve that delightful crispy texture that makes the dish truly special.

Conclusion

And there you have it, sweet friends—a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe truly embodies the spirit of joyful, home-baked desserts (or, in this case, savory delights!), reminding us that with a little creativity and love, we can create incredible meals that bring smiles and create lasting memories. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s make some kitchen magic together!

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