Bang Bang Shrimp Bowl
A deliciously indulgent bowl featuring crispy shrimp, a creamy sweet-spicy sauce, and fluffy jasmine rice, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled & deveined Choose fresh or thawed large shrimp.
- 1 cup buttermilk (or DIY: 1 tbsp vinegar/lemon juice + 1 cup milk) Tenderizes the shrimp and helps coating stick.
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup cornstarch Gives an ultra-crisp shell.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt For shrimp coating.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 4-5 cups neutral oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut)
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 0.75 cups full-fat mayonnaise Good quality recommended.
- 0.5 cups sweet chili sauce Adjust for authenticity.
- 2-4 tbsp Sriracha Adjust for desired heat.
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- Pinch salt To taste.
For the Bowl Assembly
- 3 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice Prepare according to package directions.
- 1 large cucumber, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, shredded or julienned
- 4 units green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
- Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.
Dredging Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Place buttermilk in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip shrimp in buttermilk, coat with flour mixture, then set aside on a wire rack.
Fry the Shrimp
- Heat oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C). Fry shrimp for 2–3 minutes until golden, avoiding overcrowding. Drain on a wire rack.
Assemble Bowls
- Cook rice as per instructions. Dice cucumber, shred carrots, and prepare green onions and cilantro.
- Toss fried shrimp with bang bang sauce, then serve over warm rice with cucumbers, carrots, and garnishes.
Notes
Chilling the sauce enhances its flavors. Ensure your oil temperature is correct for optimal crispness. Store leftover components separately for best taste.