As I whisked together the irresistible bang bang sauce, a flood of memories came rushing back—those delightful nights spent experimenting in the kitchen with friends, laughter mingling with the sizzle of frying shrimp. That's when I knew I had to share my Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl with you! This dish combines crispy, golden shrimp enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce, perfectly harmonizing with fluffy rice and fresh, vibrant vegetables. Not only is this recipe a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner solution, but it’s also adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies or even swap shrimp for tofu! Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just starting your culinary journey, this bowl of goodness is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Curious about how to recreate this tasty fusion of flavors? Let’s dive in!
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl a Must-Try?
Bursting with flavor, this Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl promises an unforgettable culinary experience. Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights, you’ll whip this up in no time. Versatile and customizable, feel free to switch out shrimp for tofu or mix in your favorite veggies. Crispy and creamy, every bite offers a delightful contrast. Healthy and satisfying, it’s a meal that checks all the boxes for flavor and nutrition. Don’t miss out on this crowd-pleaser!
Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl Ingredients
Note: Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl!
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – The star of the dish, providing protein; substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Cornstarch – Ensures a crispy coating on the shrimp for that perfect crunch.
• Almond Milk – Found in the wet batter; can be swapped with any milk you prefer.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a refreshing acidity; lime juice works equally well as a substitute.
• Egg – Binds the batter together for a cohesive coating; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates that irresistible crunchy texture; regular breadcrumbs can suffice in a pinch.
For the Veggies
• Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats; feel free to omit if you're out.
• Edamame, Carrots, Cucumber – These fresh veggies provide color and nutrition; swap with bell peppers or snap peas as desired.
• Cilantro – Introduces a burst of flavor; leave it out if you're looking for a milder taste.
For the Sauce
• Bang Bang Sauce – A blend of mayo, chili garlic sauce, and Thai sweet chili sauce that delivers a flavor explosion; make it ahead for convenience.
For Frying
• Avocado Oil – Ideal for frying to achieve the crispy texture; substitute with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayo, 2 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce, and 2 tablespoons of Thai sweet chili sauce until smooth. The mixture should have a creamy consistency with vibrant color. Set this delicious bang bang sauce aside so the flavors can meld while you work on the shrimp.
Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
Set up a dredging station with three bowls: place cornstarch in the first, a wet batter of almond milk, lemon juice, and egg in the second, and seasoned panko breadcrumbs in the third. Pat your shrimp dry and coat each piece first in the cornstarch, then dip in the wet batter, and finally coat well in the panko, ensuring a nice, even layer for that crunchy texture in your Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Heat the oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C)—use a thermometer for accuracy. Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally for even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Toss in Sauce
After frying, transfer the crispy shrimp into a large bowl and drizzle half of your prepared bang bang sauce over them. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly, ensuring that each succulent shrimp is enveloped in the creamy, spicy sauce. Save the remaining sauce for drizzling over your assembled bowls later.
Step 5: Assemble Bowls
Begin creating your Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowls by layering cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. Arrange slices of avocado, edamame, shredded carrots, and cucumber around the rice to add freshness and color. Top generously with the sauced shrimp, then drizzle with the leftover bang bang sauce, and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra zing.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl
• Perfect Shrimp Prep: Make sure to pat your shrimp dry before coating; moisture can prevent them from getting crispy.
• Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to check the oil's temperature. Too low and they’ll be greasy; too high and they’ll burn!
• Crispy Coating Tip: Don't skip the cornstarch! This step is crucial for achieving that desirable crunch in your Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl.
• Storing Leftovers: To maintain crispiness, store shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers. Enjoy your meal within two days!
• Reheating Hacks: For reheating, opt for an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave to keep the shrimp crispy and delicious.
• Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap out the veggies or protein in your Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl to suit your preferences!
Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful recipe to match your preferences!
-
Vegetarian Delight:
Swap shrimp for tofu to create a satisfying vegetarian version that still delivers on flavor and crunch. -
Spicy Kick:
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha to the bang bang sauce for an extra kick that will excite your taste buds. -
Veggie Wonderland:
Mix in different veggies such as bell peppers, steamed broccoli, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious twist. -
Crispy Coating:
Try using crushed rice crackers instead of panko breadcrumbs for a unique texture that adds an extra crunch to your shrimp. -
Zesty Citrus Boost:
Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a brighter flavor, or consider adding lime zest for an aromatic twist. -
Herby Freshness:
Consider swapping cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a refreshing herbaceous flavor that pairs beautifully with the bang bang sauce. -
Noodle Fusion:
Serve the bang bang shrimp over a bed of rice noodles instead of rice for an exciting twist that adds chewy texture to your dish. -
Nutty Flavor:
Incorporate a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top for a delightful nutty flavor and an attractive finish to your meal.
Each of these variations ensures your Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl remains exciting and delicious every time you make it! Enjoy experimenting, and don’t hesitate to create your own unique take! You might also enjoy exploring flavors through other recipes like a Szechuan Noodle Salad or a zingy Thai Chicken Curry to broaden your culinary horizons!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl
Elevate your meal experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the flavors of your bowl!
- Steamed Edamame: A healthy and protein-packed snack, these young soybeans bring a satisfying pop that pairs beautifully with the crispy shrimp.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and tangy, this salad adds brightness and crunch with its crisp cucumbers drenched in a zesty dressing.
- Miso Soup: Light and savory, this warm soup offers a comforting balance to the rich flavors of the bang bang shrimp, completing your dining experience.
- Coconut Jasmine Rice: If you crave a little tropical sweetness, switch your plain rice for coconut jasmine—its subtle flavor enhances the dish's overall dynamic.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these sprouts add a delightful bitterness that complements the creamy shrimp perfectly.
- Chili Garlic String Beans: Stir-fried with a hint of spice, these vibrant beans echo the bang bang sauce’s flavors and provide an extra crunch.
- Fried Wontons: Crispy and salty, these little bites are perfect for dipping into leftover bang bang sauce, creating a fun appetizer experience.
- Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing mango or coconut sorbet cleanses the palate and rounds out your meal with a sweet finish.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Enhance your dining with a fizzy drink that offers a refreshing bite, balancing out the richness of the dish.
- Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed with garlic, this tender green adds a beautiful color contrast and further enhances the Asian theme of your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days to keep the crispy texture intact.
Freezer: For meal prep, freeze uncooked coated shrimp before frying; they can last up to 3 months, ready for a quick fry when needed.
Reheating: Use an oven or air fryer to reheat the shrimp, maintaining that delicious crunch, instead of a microwave which can make them soggy.
Leftover Sauce: Store any remaining bang bang sauce in the fridge for up to one week for a quick flavor boost in future meals.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowls are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bang bang sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch, wet batter, and panko breading up to 24 hours before frying; just refrigerate them on a baking sheet to maintain their shape and crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply fry the shrimp until golden brown, assemble your bowls with rice and fresh veggies, and drizzle with the prepared sauce for a delightful and quick dinner!
Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for the Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl?
Absolutely, using fresh or frozen shrimp is ideal! Look for large shrimp (21-25 count) for the best results. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before coating to achieve that perfect crispy texture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to swap the shrimp for tofu, which holds sauce beautifully and offers a delightful bite!
How should I store leftovers from the Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl?
To maintain that delicious crispiness, store leftover shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers. They should be consumed within 2 days for the freshest taste. Just remember, moisture can make the shrimp soggy, so it's crucial to keep them apart.
Can I freeze the coated shrimp before frying?
Yes, you can! If you're planning to meal prep, I recommend laying the uncooked coated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, just fry them from frozen; they may take an additional minute to cook through.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
For the crispiest results, reheat leftover shrimp in an oven or air fryer preheated to 375°F (190°C). This should take about 5-7 minutes, making sure to check they are heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them lose that coveted crunch.
What if I have allergies to some ingredients in the Bang Bang Sauce?
If you're dealing with allergies, you can easily modify the sauce! For instance, you can use a vegan mayonnaise substitute for those avoiding eggs, or skip the chili garlic sauce if you're sensitive to heat. Be sure to taste test and adjust the ingredients based on your dietary needs; after all, this dish is all about customization!
How do I know when my shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Great question! Perfectly cooked shrimp should be opaque and have a pink hue. You can also look for them to curl slightly as they cook. In total, frying them for 2-3 minutes at the right oil temperature of 375°F will yield a beautiful golden brown finish. Remember to work in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of frying!
Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl - Crispy, Easy Weeknight Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayo, 2 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce, and 2 tablespoons of Thai sweet chili sauce until smooth. Set aside to meld flavors.
- Prepare a dredging station with three bowls: cornstarch, wet batter of almond milk, lemon juice, and egg, and seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Coat each shrimp piece.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 375°F (190°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Toss fried shrimp with half of the bang bang sauce to coat evenly. Reserve remaining sauce for serving.
- Assemble bowls by layering cooked rice, then top with avocado, edamame, carrots, and cucumber. Add sauced shrimp and drizzle with remaining bang bang sauce.
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