Unleash Flavor with Irresistible Boom Boom Shrimp (Bang Bang Shrimp)

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a recipe that consistently earns rave reviews from family and friends: Boom Boom Shrimp, also affectionately known as Bang Bang Shrimp. This beloved dish features succulent shrimp, enveloped in a light, crispy tempura-style batter, then coated in a sweet, spicy, and utterly addictive chili sauce. It’s an Asian-inspired culinary delight that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for a quick weeknight meal, an impressive appetizer, or a fun party snack.

Whether you’re craving bold flavors or seeking a new favorite seafood dish, this crispy shrimp creation promises to deliver. Its unique combination of textures—crunchy exterior, tender interior—and its balanced sweet-spicy sauce make it an unforgettable experience. Forget expensive takeout; you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Looking for more amazing shrimp recipes? Don’t miss my Shrimp Boil Foil Packets for a convenient and flavorful meal, or try my copycat Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp to bring steakhouse flavors home.

Why You’ll Adore This Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe

There are countless reasons why Boom Boom Shrimp has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers everywhere, and this homemade version takes it to a whole new level:

• Explosion of Flavor: The secret lies in the incredible sauce – a perfect harmony of sweet chili, creamy mayonnaise, a hint of peanut butter, and a fiery kick from sriracha. It’s truly “boom boom” for your taste buds!
• Crispy Perfection: Our special batter, featuring a secret ingredient, ensures every shrimp is incredibly crispy without being overly heavy or greasy. It’s the ideal counterpoint to the rich sauce.
• Quick & Easy: From prep to plate, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Versatile & Customizable: Serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even in tacos. Adjust the spice level to your preference, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.
• Better Than Restaurant Quality: You’ll be amazed at how easily you can replicate and even surpass the flavors of your favorite restaurant’s Bang Bang Shrimp, all from the comfort of your kitchen.

Get ready to add this fantastic recipe to your regular rotation. It’s a dish that guarantees smiles and requests for “just one more shrimp!”

Groceries You’ll Need: Key Ingredients for Boom Boom Shrimp

Crafting the perfect Boom Boom Shrimp requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients for both the crispy shrimp and the signature sweet and spicy sauce. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with a few insights into their role:

For the Crispy Shrimp:

• Large Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen large shrimp, peeled and deveined. The larger size makes for a more substantial and satisfying bite. Thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly and pat them very dry before battering to ensure maximum crispiness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of our light batter.
• Cornstarch: This is a crucial ingredient for achieving that desirable extra crispness, reminiscent of tempura. It helps create a delicate, shatteringly crisp coating.
• Baking Powder: Works with the carbonation in the ginger ale to make the batter light and airy, contributing to its signature “boom” texture.
• Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning the batter, ensuring flavor throughout the dish.
• Ginger Ale: Our secret weapon for an extra crispy and flavorful batter! The carbonation creates tiny bubbles, while the ginger adds a subtle, aromatic layer. Make sure it’s cold for the best results.
• Peanut Oil (for frying): Ideal for deep frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which won’t overpower the shrimp. You’ll need enough to allow the shrimp to float and fry evenly.

For the Signature Boom Boom Sauce:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation of the sauce, providing richness and body. Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This provides the primary sweet and tangy notes, along with a mild underlying spice.
• Peanut Butter: A small amount adds depth, nuttiness, and a lovely creaminess to the sauce, helping to balance the other strong flavors.
• Sriracha Sauce: The source of the “boom”! Adjust the quantity to control the heat level. Start with a few drops and add more if you prefer a spicier kick.
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper: To season the sauce, bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.

See the detailed recipe card below for exact quantities. Freshness truly makes a difference in this recipe, especially for the shrimp. Don’t compromise on quality!

Creative Recipe Variations and Smart Substitute Ideas

While the classic Boom Boom Shrimp recipe is undeniably delicious, it’s also incredibly adaptable. Feel free to get creative with these variations and substitutions to suit your dietary needs, pantry staples, or simply to explore new flavor combinations.

• Protein Power-Up: Not a fan of shrimp, or simply looking for an alternative? This recipe works wonderfully with other proteins. Try swapping out the shrimp for bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or even firm tofu cubes. Ensure your alternative protein is cut to a similar size for even cooking.
• Oil Alternatives: If peanut oil isn’t available or you have allergies, other high-temperature tolerant oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, or sunflower oil are excellent substitutes for frying. Avoid olive oil, which has a lower smoke point and can burn easily.
• Bubbly Batter Boosters: Ginger Ale gives our batter a unique flavor and crispiness, but you can definitely experiment. Club soda works perfectly for a neutral-flavored, ultra-crispy batter, or even Sprite for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Heat Control: Sriracha is a popular choice for its distinctive garlic-chili flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, don’t fret! Any hot sauce you enjoy, such as Tabasco, Frank’s RedHot, or even a dash of cayenne pepper, can provide that desired heat. Adjust to taste.
• Aromatic Additions: For an extra layer of authentic Asian flavor, a few drops of toasted sesame oil can be a fantastic addition to the Boom Boom sauce. Stir it in at the end for its full aroma. Similarly, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the finished shrimp adds both flavor and visual appeal.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum) and ensure your ginger ale and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Lighter Version: For a slightly lighter take, consider air frying the battered shrimp instead of deep frying. You won’t achieve the exact same deep-fried crispiness, but it will still be delicious!

Don’t be afraid to experiment with these ideas to make this Boom Boom Shrimp recipe truly your own!

Recipe Walkthrough: Detailed Instructions for Perfect Boom Boom Shrimp

Creating perfectly crispy, saucy Boom Boom Shrimp is an enjoyable process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve restaurant-quality results every time. Remember, the key to success lies in proper preparation and mindful frying.

This is an overview of the recipe steps. For more detailed instructions and ingredient quantities, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Step One: Prepare Your Frying Station. Begin by pouring peanut oil into a deep pot or a sturdy Dutch oven. You’ll need enough oil for the shrimp to be mostly submerged, typically 3-4 inches deep. Place the pot over medium-high heat and allow the oil to gradually reach the ideal frying temperature of approximately 330°F (165°C). Using a deep-fry thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy, ensuring perfectly cooked shrimp without burning the batter. While the oil heats, you can proceed with the next steps.
2. Step Two: Whisk the Dry Batter Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and sea salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend these dry ingredients, ensuring there are no lumps and that the leavening agents are evenly distributed. This dry mixture forms the foundation of your crispy batter.
3. Step Three: Create the Wet Batter. Once your peanut oil is nearing its target temperature, it’s time to add the cold ginger ale to your dry flour mixture. Pour it in and whisk vigorously until a smooth batter forms. It should be thick enough to cling to the shrimp but still pourable. The cold temperature of the ginger ale helps create a lighter, crisper batter once it hits the hot oil.
4. Step Four: Batter and Fry the Shrimp in Batches. Carefully coat each peeled and deveined shrimp in the prepared batter, ensuring it’s fully covered. Gently drop the battered shrimp, one by one, into the hot oil. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the pot; fry only 8-10 shrimp at a time. Overcrowding will significantly lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy shrimp instead of crispy ones. Use tongs or a straining ladle for safe handling.
5. Step Five: Achieve Golden Crispiness. Fry the shrimp for about 3 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. The exact time may vary slightly depending on the size of your shrimp and the oil temperature. Once cooked, use your straining ladle or spider strainer to carefully remove the shrimp from the oil.
6. Step Six: Drain Excess Oil. Immediately transfer the fried shrimp to a plate or baking sheet lined with several layers of paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping your shrimp as crisp as possible. Repeat steps four, five, and six with the remaining raw shrimp until all are perfectly fried.
7. Step Seven: Whisk Together the Signature Sauce. While the last batch of shrimp is frying or cooling slightly, prepare your Boom Boom sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, peanut butter, sriracha, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. Taste and adjust the sriracha for your preferred level of heat.
8. Step Eight: Serve and Enjoy! Once all the shrimp are fried and drained, you have two options for serving. You can either gently toss the crispy shrimp with the Boom Boom sauce in a large bowl, ensuring each piece is evenly coated, or serve the sauce on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy!

More Seafood Recipes I Think You’ll Love

If you’re a seafood enthusiast like me, you’re always on the lookout for exciting new dishes to add to your repertoire. Here are a few other fantastic seafood recipes that share the soulful, comforting flavors of the South, just like our Boom Boom Shrimp:

From the creamy depths of an etouffee to the robust flavors of gumbo, these dishes promise to transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana cooking. Enjoy exploring these delicious options!

Perfect Pairings: How to Serve Boom Boom Shrimp

Boom Boom Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making it suitable for anything from a casual snack to a delightful main course. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this flavorful dish:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp on a platter with the Boom Boom sauce as a dipping option. Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of elegance. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Light Meal with Salad: For a balanced and satisfying meal, pair your Boom Boom Shrimp with a fresh, crisp side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, or even my Southern Seafood Salad Recipe, makes an excellent accompaniment, cutting through the richness of the fried shrimp and sauce.
• Hearty Side Options: If you’re looking for something more substantial, consider serving the shrimp alongside fluffy white rice, a bed of creamy coleslaw, or a generous portion of French fries for a classic pairing. The contrast of the hot, spicy shrimp with cool, crisp sides is always a winner.
• Creative Entrée Ideas: Don’t limit yourself! Boom Boom Shrimp can be transformed into delicious tacos or sliders. Simply load the sauced shrimp into warm tortillas or slider buns, add some crisp lettuce or a tangy slaw, and you’ve got a fantastic meal.

Ultimately, the choice of whether to pour the luscious Boom Boom sauce directly over the battered shrimp or serve it on the side as a dip is entirely up to personal preference. Pouring it over ensures every bite is coated, while serving on the side allows for individual customization and helps maintain maximum crispiness until the very last moment. Experiment and find your favorite way!

Smart Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Boom Boom Shrimp

While it’s rare to have leftovers of such a delicious dish, it can happen! Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Boom Boom Shrimp to best preserve its flavor and texture:

Storing Leftovers:

If you find yourself with any extra Boom Boom Shrimp, store them promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and safe to eat for up to 3 days. A key tip for potential leftovers: if you anticipate not eating all the shrimp in one sitting, I highly recommend serving the Boom Boom sauce on the side rather than tossing it with all the shrimp. This prevents the sauce from making the crispy batter soggy during storage, allowing for a much better reheating experience.

Reheating for Optimal Crispiness:

Reheating fried foods can be tricky, as the goal is always to regain that initial crispness. Avoid the microwave at all costs, as it heats from the inside out and will undoubtedly result in a soggy batter.

• Air Fryer Method (Recommended): This is hands down the best way to reheat Boom Boom Shrimp. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the leftover shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crisp again. They’ll taste almost as good as freshly fried!
• Convection Oven Method: Similar to an air fryer, a convection oven uses circulating hot air to reheat food evenly and crisp it up. Preheat your convection oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until hot and crispy.
• Standard Oven Method: If you don’t have an air fryer or convection oven, a regular oven will work. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the shrimp on a wire rack over a baking sheet (this allows air to circulate underneath for crispier results) and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and the batter has crisped up.

Once reheated, you can then toss the shrimp with any remaining (or freshly made) Boom Boom sauce, or dip them into it. Enjoy your revived crispy shrimp!

Elevate Your Party with Festive Boom Boom Shrimp Skewers

Looking to add a playful and impressive touch to your next gathering? Transforming your Boom Boom Shrimp into festive skewers is an incredibly easy and creative way to serve this crowd-pleasing dish. They’re perfect for holidays, game days, or any celebration where finger foods are a hit.

How to Create Shrimp Skewers:

The process is surprisingly simple. Before you dip the shrimp into the batter, thread 2-3 pieces of raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp onto small wooden or bamboo skewers. Then, proceed with the battering and frying steps exactly as you would for individual shrimp. Fry the skewers for the same amount of time (about 3 minutes), ensuring they achieve that beautiful golden crispness. Once fried, remove them from the oil and allow them to cool slightly on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Seasonal Decoration Ideas:

This is where the fun begins! You can decorate your skewers according to the season or theme of your event. For example, my 4th of July skewers, pictured above, are inspired by fireworks:

• Red Bell Pepper Stars: Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut thin slices of red bell pepper into festive stars. Place these at the top of each skewer to mimic a bursting firework.
• Red, White, and Blue Fringe: Create a colorful fringe at the bottom of the skewers using thin strips of red, white, and blue parchment paper or food-safe ribbons.
• Sauce and Sesame Seeds: Once decorated, brush the delicious Bang Bang (Boom Boom) sauce generously all over the fried shrimp on the skewer. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of flavor and texture, mimicking sparks.

Imagine these skewers for a Christmas party, adorned with a sprig of rosemary and a tiny cranberry, or for a Halloween gathering with a spooky black olive “eye.” The possibilities are endless! It’s a simple yet impactful way to make your Boom Boom Shrimp stand out and add an extra layer of fun to your celebration.

If you’ve tried this delightful Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe or any other fantastic recipe on my site, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please let me know how it turned out in the comment section below. Your feedback and experiences truly make my day!

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Boom Boom Shrimp

Boom boom shrimp (also known as Bang Bang Shrimp) is a delicious battered shrimp recipe with a sweet chili sauce coating. Incredibly tasty and moreish, you’ll keep going back for more!