Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular appetizer featuring crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce, famously known as a signature dish at Bonefish Grill.
What are the main ingredients for the Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce is made by whisking together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, and 3-5 drops of hot chili sauce until smooth.
What size shrimp is best for this recipe?
While any shrimp can be used, smaller shrimp work best for achieving the classic Bang Bang Shrimp texture and presentation.
How should the shrimp be prepared before cooking?
The shrimp should be shelled and deveined before being dredged in cornstarch for frying.
What is the secret to getting the shrimp crispy?
Dredging the shrimp in cornstarch and frying them in oil heated to 350°F (175°C) ensures a light and crispy coating.
How long do you fry the shrimp?
Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes per batch until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Why is it important to fry in batches?
Frying in batches avoids overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even crispiness.
What temperature should the frying oil be?
The oil should be heated to exactly 350°F (175°C) for the best frying results.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
Is there protein in Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, each serving provides about 14g of protein.
What are the nutritional facts for fat and carbs?
One serving contains 12g of fat and 10g of carbohydrates.
How much fiber and sugar is in this dish?
This recipe contains 1g of fiber and 1g of sugar per serving.
How do I serve Bang Bang Shrimp?
It is traditionally served in a lettuce-lined bowl and garnished with chopped scallions.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more than the recommended 3-5 drops of hot chili sauce to the mixture.
What kind of hot sauce should I use?
The recipe calls for hot chili sauce, such as Sriracha, to provide the necessary kick.
Can I serve this as a main meal?
While it is a perfect appetizer, it can also be served as a light meal over a fresh salad.
What is the purpose of the lettuce lining the bowl?
The lettuce provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the warm, saucy shrimp and improves presentation.
Is this a Bonefish Grill copycat recipe?
Yes, this recipe is a recreation designed to perfectly mimic Bonefish Grill's signature Bang Bang Shrimp.
How much cornstarch is needed for the coating?
You will need between 1/2 to 3/4 cup of cornstarch to evenly coat 1 lb of shrimp.
What should I do after frying the shrimp?
Transfer the fried shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil before tossing them in the sauce.
Do I toss the shrimp in the sauce while they are hot?
Yes, toss the freshly fried shrimp in the sauce immediately to ensure they are evenly and warmly coated.
What provides the sweetness in the sauce?
The Thai sweet chili sauce provides the sweet element that balances the spicy and creamy components.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before dredging in cornstarch to ensure the coating sticks.
Is this recipe quick to make?
Yes, it is considered a quick meal as the frying process only takes a few minutes per batch.
What garnish is recommended?
Chopped scallions are the recommended garnish for a fresh and crunchy touch.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared and set aside while you cook the shrimp.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is a balance of zesty, sweet, and spicy flavors with a creamy and crispy texture.
Does the recipe use flour?
No, this recipe specifically uses cornstarch for a lighter, crispier texture than flour provides.
How much Thai sweet chili sauce is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of Thai sweet chili sauce.