There’s something irresistibly exciting about the crunch of perfectly fried shrimp, especially when it’s enveloped in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Recently, I decided to shake things up in my kitchen and whip up a batch of Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite! This Asian-inspired appetizer not only delivers a delightful crunch but also bursts with rich flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to impress on a busy weeknight, this dish fits the bill perfectly. It comes together easily, making it a fantastic choice for anyone tired of the same old fast-food routine. Imagine golden, crispy morsels served with lime wedges, enveloped in a delectable sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. Trust me, these Boom Boom Shrimp are bound to become a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire!
Why is Boom Boom Shrimp a Must-Try?
Crispy Delight: Discover the joy of biting into perfectly fried shrimp that delivers an addictive crunch with every bite.
Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet and spicy in the sauce will have your taste buds singing with excitement.
Quick & Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, your guests will be asking for seconds (or thirds) of this irresistible appetizer.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu to cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
Boom Boom Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Jumbo Shrimp (16/20 count) – Main protein, provides bite-sized richness. Can substitute with chicken or firm tofu for variations.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes shrimp, enhancing flavor and texture. Greek yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar can serve as a substitute.
• Cornstarch – Creates a crispy coating when fried. Can use all-purpose flour if cornstarch is unavailable.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used instead.
• Black Pepper & Salt – Seasoning, enhances overall taste. Adjust to preference.
For the Sauce
• Kewpie Mayonnaise – Base for the sauce, adds creaminess. Regular mayonnaise works, though it alters the flavor slightly.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and a hint of spice. Any sweet chili sauce can be used.
• Sriracha – Adds heat and complexity to the sauce. Adjust quantity based on desired spice level.
• Lime Juice – Enhances flavor balance in the sauce. Fresh or bottled lime juice can be used.
For Frying
• Canola Oil – For frying, essential for achieving crispiness. Vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.
How to Make Boom Boom Shrimp
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Prep Shrimp: Start by peeling, deveining, rinsing, and patting the shrimp dry to ensure they are ready for marination.
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Marinate: Soak the cleaned shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This not only tenderizes the shrimp but adds a rich flavor profile that enhances every bite!
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Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together Kewpie mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined—this is where the magic begins!
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Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This blend will create the crispy coating you desire when you fry the shrimp.
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Dredge Shrimp: Once marinated, remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and coat them evenly with the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is well covered for a perfect crunch.
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Heat Oil: Pour canola oil into a large skillet, heating it to 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy to ensure that your shrimp fry beautifully without becoming greasy.
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Fry Shrimp: Add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, frying them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan for optimal frying.
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Drain: Carefully remove the fried shrimp and let them drain on paper towels. This step is crucial for keeping them crispy, so don’t skip it!
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Coat with Sauce: Transfer the crispy shrimp to a large bowl, drizzle the delicious sauce over, and toss gently to ensure each piece is generously coated. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped green onions and serve with lime wedges.
Optional: Serve alongside extra sauce for dipping and lime wedges for an added zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Boom Boom Shrimp
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Marination Matters: Soaking the shrimp in buttermilk not only tenderizes but also deepens the flavor, making each bite more succulent.
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Heat Control: Keep the oil at a consistent 350°F. This prevents soggy shrimp and maintains that delightful crunch; using a thermometer is key!
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Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Frying in smaller batches ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve your Boom Boom Shrimp right after frying. They stay crispier and more enjoyable when fresh!
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Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to customize the sweet and spicy sauce to suit your taste preferences; add more sriracha for heat or more sweet chili sauce for sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Boom Boom Shrimp
Fridge: Cool shrimp completely and store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Make sure they are well-sealed to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked Boom Boom Shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat thawed shrimp in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This helps achieve that delicious crunch again, just like when they were freshly made.
Note: Avoid microwaving, as it may make the shrimp soggy and ruin the crispy texture!
Boom Boom Shrimp Variations
Feel free to make this delightful recipe your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of buttermilk for a non-dairy option that still keeps the shrimp tender.
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Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add minced fresh ginger to the sauce for an extra zing that sings on your palate.
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Crispy Panko: Replace cornstarch with panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier coating that will delight your texture-loving friends.
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Vegetable Medley: For a colorful addition, toss in thinly sliced bell peppers and green onions in the frying pan for a vibrant veggie boost.
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Zesty Lime: Enhance the freshness by adding lime zest to the sauce, giving it an aromatic brightness that complements the sweet and spicy elements.
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Honey Glaze: Swap out the sweet chili sauce for honey or maple syrup for a unique, sticky-sweet glaze that works beautifully with the shrimp.
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Asian Infusion: Incorporate sesame oil into the sauce for a nutty flavor profile that adds depth and pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
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Keto-Friendly: To keep it low-carb, try using crushed pork rinds instead of cornstarch for the coating, ensuring that delightful crunch without the carbs!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful. The cornstarch coating can also be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in the prepared coating, then fry them fresh for that irresistible crunch. For the sauce, consider making it a day ahead and refrigerating it, which will blend the flavors beautifully. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Boom Boom Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this crispy, flavor-packed appetizer with delightful sides that balance and enhance its taste.
- Coconut Rice: The creamy sweetness of coconut rice offers a delightful contrast to the spicy notes of the shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw with crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing adds an excellent crunch and balances the richness of the shrimp, enhancing each bite.
- Sesame Noodles: These savory noodles provide a satisfying texture and a nutty flavor profile that complements the bold sauce of the Boom Boom Shrimp perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans not only add color but also a crispness that contrasts with the shrimp’s crunch, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can be a delightful accompaniment, offering a comforting, familiar taste that pairs exceptionally well with the shrimp’s spice.
- Sushi Rolls: A side of sushi rolls adds a fun twist, allowing guests to enjoy different flavors and textures while keeping the Asian theme alive.
- Craft Beer or Sake: A chilled craft beer or a refreshing glass of sake enhances the experience, balancing out the richness of the shrimp and enriching your dining adventure together.
- Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet offers a refreshing finish, cleansing the palate with its fruity sweetness and leaving everyone completely satisfied.
Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for Boom Boom Shrimp?
I recommend using jumbo shrimp (16/20 count) for this recipe. They provide the perfect bite-sized richness. If you’re looking for variations, you can easily swap the shrimp for chicken or firm tofu for a delightful twist!
How should I store leftover Boom Boom Shrimp?
To keep your shrimp fresh, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just be sure to seal it tightly to maintain optimum flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Boom Boom Shrimp?
Absolutely! For freezing, lay your cooked Boom Boom Shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until they are firm, about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy them any time you crave that crispy goodness!
How can I reheat frozen Boom Boom Shrimp?
To restore that fantastic crunch, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place your thawed shrimp on a baking sheet and reheat them for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures they stay crispy without becoming soggy, which can happen if you microwave them.
What if my shrimp don’t get crispy when frying?
If your shrimp aren’t coming out crispy, there are a few reasons this might happen. First, check that the oil temperature is around 350°F; too low can lead to greasy shrimp. Also, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. It’s essential to fry in batches for the best result!
Are there any dietary considerations for Boom Boom Shrimp?
Yes, you can easily cater to various dietary needs! If someone has a shellfish allergy, try using chicken or extra-firm tofu instead. Additionally, if you’re concerned about calorie intake or flavors, you can adjust the sauce ingredients to reduce sweetness or spice, making it more family-friendly!
Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling, deveining, rinsing, and patting the shrimp dry to ensure they are ready for marination.
- Soak the cleaned shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together Kewpie mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Once marinated, remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and coat them evenly with the cornstarch mixture.
- Pour canola oil into a large skillet, heating it to 350°F.
- Add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, frying them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully remove the fried shrimp and let them drain on paper towels.
- Transfer the crispy shrimp to a large bowl, drizzle the sauce over, and toss gently.