Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe brings the beloved taste of this popular appetizer right to your kitchen. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in, this dish features crispy shrimp coated in a deliciously spicy sauce that packs a flavorful punch. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it an irresistible choice for seafood lovers and a fantastic option for impressing guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce with chili garlic sauce creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a seafood platter. You can also adjust the heat level to suit your preference.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its crunchy texture and creamy sauce, this dish is sure to impress family and friends at any occasion.
• Homemade Goodness: Skip the restaurant and make this favorite dish from the comfort of your home using fresh ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will ensure your cooking experience is smooth. Here’s what you need to get started:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven
• Spider mesh basket or slotted spoon
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Paper towels
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven: These provide even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly cooked shrimp without burning.
• Spider mesh basket or slotted spoon: Ideal for safely removing fried shrimp from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain away.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the shrimp and mixing the coating ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

This recipe comes pretty close to the taste and texture of the original Bonefish Grill bang bang shrimp.

For the Shrimp:

• 12 oz. shrimp (60-80 size, raw, shelled and de-veined, thawed)
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 3 to 4 cups sunflower or peanut oil (or other high smoke point oil)

For the Coating:

• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp. baking soda

For Serving:

• Lettuce, shredded for serving
• Green onions, chopped as garnish

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Miracle Whip for slightly sweeter sauce)
• 3 tbsp Mae Ploy sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp Huy Fong chili garlic sauce
• Sriracha sauce if more heat is desired

How to Make Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Shrimp

Place thawed shrimp in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step helps tenderize the shrimp while adding flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a shallow bowl, mix together cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and baking soda. Ensure it’s well combined.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, place enough oil to fry (about 3-4 cups) and heat it to 350°F.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Remove about 10 to 12 shrimp from the buttermilk bath. Pat them dry with paper towels. Then coat each shrimp in the cornstarch/panko mixture thoroughly.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

Carefully lower coated shrimp into hot oil using a spider mesh basket. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes until they are medium browned.

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked, remove shrimp from oil using a spider basket and place them on a cooling rack lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 7: Repeat Cooking

Repeat steps four through six until all shrimp are cooked.

Step 8: Coat with Sauce

Place fried shrimp into a bowl with the bang bang sauce mixture. Stir gently until each piece is well-coated.

Serve in a bowl with shredded lettuce on the bottom and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy your homemade Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp!

How to Serve Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Serving Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple dinner at home.

On a Bed of Lettuce

• Serve the shrimp on a bed of shredded lettuce for a fresh and crunchy contrast. This adds a nice texture and keeps the dish light.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer additional dipping sauces such as extra sweet chili sauce or a zesty lime vinaigrette. This allows guests to customize their flavors according to preference.

As Tacos

• Use soft corn tortillas to create bang bang shrimp tacos. Top with avocado, cilantro, and lime juice for a delightful twist.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Place the shrimp over steamed rice or quinoa for a filling meal. The grains will soak up the flavors of the sauce, enhancing every bite.

In a Salad Bowl

• Combine the shrimp with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a vibrant salad. Drizzle with your favorite dressing for added flavor.

How to Perfect Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

To achieve the best results with Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp recipe, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or well-thawed shrimp to ensure maximum flavor and texture in your dish.

• Proper Soaking Time: Allow the shrimp to soak in buttermilk long enough—30 minutes or more helps tenderize them and enhances flavor.

• Heat Oil Correctly: Ensure that the oil is heated to 350°F before frying. Proper oil temperature is key to achieving crispy shrimp without being greasy.

• Do Not Overcrowd: Fry shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy shrimp instead of crispy ones.

• Drain Well: After frying, let the shrimp drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This keeps them light and crispy until serving.

Best Side Dishes for Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the spicy shrimp nicely and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing the flavors of the spicy shrimp perfectly.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that contrasts well with the richness of fried shrimp.

4. Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice makes an excellent pairing, adding an exotic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness that balances out the heat from the bang bang sauce.

6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast to spicy flavors while keeping your meal light and refreshing.

7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that complements the lightness of fried shrimp.

8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and lemon juice as a fresh accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe can be delightful, but avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Incorrect Shrimp Preparation: Ensure the shrimp are properly thawed and deveined. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on frying time.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once leads to uneven cooking. Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve a crispy texture.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Soaking shrimp in buttermilk is crucial for flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 30 minutes for best results.

• Using Low-Quality Oil: High smoke point oils like sunflower or peanut oil are ideal for frying. Avoid using oils that cannot withstand high temperatures, which can affect taste and safety.

• Not Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, be cautious with the chili garlic sauce and Sriracha. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container.
• Keep them refrigerated for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

• Cool fully before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
• Place shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, storing for up to 1 month.

Reheating Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power to avoid toughening. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil. Stir-fry shrimp until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe that might help you in your cooking journey.

What makes Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe special?

Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe features a unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors that create a fantastic appetizer enjoyed by many.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just make sure they are fully thawed before soaking in buttermilk for best results.

How can I customize the sauce in Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe?

You can adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce or add extra Sriracha based on your spice preference, making it milder or spicier as you like!

Is there a vegetarian version of Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe?

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower bites coated in the same batter and fried until golden.

Final Thoughts

Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various sauces or spices to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors!