If you are craving something crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Bang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe is exactly what you need! Not only does it bring that perfect balance of spicy and sweet in the sauce, but the coating delivers a satisfying crunch you’ll love. Plus, it’s loaded with protein, making it a fantastic option whether you’re fueling up after a workout or just want a delicious meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Get ready to dive into a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is simple to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Bang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays its part in building texture, flavor, and that irresistible richness.
- Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for the bang bang sauce, giving it a luscious mouthfeel.
- Chili garlic sauce: Adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor that wakes up your taste buds.
- Sriracha: Boosts the heat and tanginess, balancing the sauce perfectly.
- Besti Powdered Monk Fruit Allulose Blend: Provides just a touch of sweetness to mellow the spice and round out the sauce.
- Whey protein powder: A clever high-protein twist that also helps make the batter light and crisp.
- Wholesome Yum Blanched Almond Flour (or cornstarch): Essential for creating that golden, crunchy coating on the shrimp.
- Wholesome Yum Coconut Flour: Adds a subtle nutty flavor and improves texture in the batter.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the other flavors beautifully.
- Eggs: Bind the batter ingredients together while contributing moisture.
- Sparkling water (cold): Keeps the batter light and adds airiness for the perfect crunch.
- Medium shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star ingredient that gets transformed into a crispy, flavorful delight.
- Avocado oil: Ideal for frying because of its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Create the Bang Bang Sauce
First, whip up the sauce that defines this dish. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, chili garlic sauce, sriracha, and the Besti powdered monk fruit blend. This combination results in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly, making every bite irresistibly flavorful. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors marry while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Protein-Packed Batter
In a large bowl, combine whey protein powder, almond flour (or cornstarch), coconut flour, sea salt, and black pepper. These dry ingredients form the crispy crust that everyone will rave about. Add the eggs and cold sparkling water, then whisk everything until you have a fully combined, smooth batter. The sparkling water is a secret ingredient here that makes the coating light and airy instead of dense.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour avocado oil into a Dutch oven or deep pan and heat it over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using the right oil and temperature is crucial for that perfect fry — hot enough to crisp up the shrimp quickly without soaking them in oil.
Step 4: Fry Your Shrimp to Crispy Perfection
Dip the peeled and deveined shrimp into your batter, letting any excess drip off. Then carefully add them in a single layer to the hot oil. Fry each side for about 2 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to keep them crisp. Repeat this process in batches for all your shrimp. This frying step is the magic that gives you that signature crunch and juicy shrimp inside.
Step 5: Toss with Bang Bang Sauce and Serve
Once all your shrimp are cooked and drained, place them in a large bowl, pour over the bang bang sauce, and gently toss to coat thoroughly. Serving immediately is key to enjoying the perfect contrast of crispy shrimp with silky sauce. Your Bang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe is now ready to wow!
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your dish with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These little touches add a pop of color, fresh flavor, and a touch of crunch that elevates the overall experience. A wedge of lime on the side invites a zesty squeeze that complements the creamy sauce and balances the spice beautifully.
Side Dishes
For sides, lighter options like a crisp green salad or a simple slaw provide refreshing contrast. If you want to keep it hearty, pair with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a low-carb, protein-packed meal that keeps the focus on your delicious shrimp. The combination will keep you energized without feeling heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Shake things up by serving your bang bang shrimp over a bed of zucchini noodles for a fun twist, or tuck them into lettuce wraps for a handheld delight. You could even pile them on top of avocado halves or stuff into small tortillas for a casual taco night. These serving ideas make the Bang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe versatile enough to suit any mood or occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the bang bang sauce separate if possible to maintain the crispiness of the shrimp when reheated. This way, the flavors stay fresh and the texture remains enjoyable.
Freezing
While frying shrimp fresh is ideal, you can freeze cooked shrimp without sauce by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a hot skillet for best results.
Reheating
To reheat your bang bang shrimp, avoid microwaving as it will make them soggy. Instead, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Then toss with sauce fresh and enjoy just as you did the first time around.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely, pat dry to remove excess moisture, and proceed as usual. Dry shrimp will help the batter stick better and ensure a crispy finish.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using almond flour or cornstarch as the coating ingredients, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Double-check your other sauces and ingredients to ensure they don’t contain gluten.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
You can, but frying really brings out the signature crunch and flavor. Baking might work if you’re looking for a lighter version, but the texture will be different. Try baking at a high temperature on a wire rack to get closer to that crisp.
How spicy is the Bang Bang Shrimp in this recipe?
The heat level is moderate and can be adjusted easily by changing the amount of chili garlic sauce or sriracha. If you prefer a milder dish, use less chili garlic sauce or omit the sriracha altogether.
Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld even better. Just give it a quick stir before tossing with the shrimp.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about the crispy exterior and creamy, spicy sauce of the Bang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but fuels your body with great protein, making it a win-win. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious meals that’s both comforting and nourishing!
PrintBang Bang Shrimp (High Protein Recipe) Recipe
This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe offers a high-protein twist on the classic appetizer by using whey protein powder and a crispy batter made with almond and coconut flours. The shrimp are perfectly fried to a golden crisp and tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce made with mayonnaise, chili garlic sauce, and sriracha. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is great for a flavorful snack or a quick dinner option.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/3 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp Chili garlic sauce
- 1/2 tsp Sriracha
- 1 tbsp Besti Powdered Monk Fruit Allulose Blend
Batter and Shrimp
- 2/3 cup Whey protein powder
- 1/3 cup Wholesome Yum Blanched Almond Flour (or cornstarch)
- 2 tbsp Wholesome Yum Coconut Flour
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 2 large Eggs
- 1/2 cup Sparkling water (cold)
- 1 lb Medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 cups Avocado oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Make the bang bang sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chili garlic sauce, sriracha, and Besti powdered monk fruit allulose blend until smooth. Set the sauce aside for later.
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, combine whey protein powder, blanched almond flour (or cornstarch if preferred), coconut flour, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the eggs and cold sparkling water to the dry ingredients and whisk thoroughly until the batter is fully combined and smooth.
- Heat the oil: Pour the avocado oil into a Dutch oven or deep heavy-bottomed pot and heat it over medium heat on the stovetop. Allow the oil to reach 350°F (175°C), which should take about 5 minutes. Use a thermometer to check the temperature for safety and consistency.
- Fry the shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the batter to coat it completely, letting any excess batter drip off. Carefully add the shrimp in a single layer to the hot oil without overcrowding the pot. Fry each side for about 2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove the shrimp using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat in batches with the remaining shrimp.
- Toss and serve: Place the fried shrimp in a large bowl. Pour the prepared bang bang sauce over the shrimp and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at their crispiest.
Notes
- You can substitute cornstarch for almond flour in the batter if preferred, but almond flour offers a nuttier flavor and is lower in carbs.
- Maintaining the oil temperature around 350°F is crucial to ensure the shrimp cooks evenly without absorbing too much oil.
- Use cold sparkling water in the batter to help create a light and crispy coating on the shrimp.
- Adjust the heat level of the sauce by adding more or less sriracha or chili garlic sauce based on personal preference.
- If you want a gluten-free version, use almond flour and coconut flour as indicated and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
