Go Back

Bang Bang Shrimp - Crispy, Creamy, Crowd-Pleasing Flavor

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 teaspoon lemon juice as a quick swap)
  • 1 cup cornstarch (for a crisp, light coating)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to your heat level)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra balance)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • Neutral oil for frying (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil)
  • Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
  • Shredded cabbage or lettuce for serving (optional but classic)

Method
 

  1. Marinate the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry. Place them in a bowl with the buttermilk and a pinch of salt. Let sit for 10–15 minutes while you make the sauce.
  2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness. Set aside.
  3. Prep the coating: Add cornstarch to a shallow dish. Remove shrimp from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in cornstarch, shaking off the extra. Place coated shrimp on a plate.
  4. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or pot, pour in 1–1.5 inches of oil. Heat to about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the oil is ready when a pinch of cornstarch sizzles immediately.
  5. Fry in batches: Add shrimp in a single layer without crowding. Fry 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and just cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels. Sprinkle with a little salt while hot.
  6. Toss with sauce: In a large bowl, gently toss the hot shrimp with just enough sauce to coat. Don’t drown them—extra sauce can be served on the side.
  7. Serve right away: Arrange over shredded cabbage or lettuce. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Enjoy while crisp and warm.