As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzling sound of shrimp hitting the hot oil was music to my ears—a symphony of culinary excitement. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp with Sweet and Spicy Sauce, an Asian-inspired dish that promises to transport your taste buds to flavor paradise. Not only is this recipe quick to whip up, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Each crunchy bite is perfectly complemented by a creamy, tangy sauce that dances on your palate, and the best part? You can easily customize it with chicken or tofu if you’re looking for a twist. Ready to dive into this delicious adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why Are Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp Irresistible?
Crispy texture: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp that delivers an addictive bite.
Customizable: This recipe easily adapts to your preferences—swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, or make it dairy-free with coconut milk.
Quick preparation: Ready in no time, it’s an effortless dish that fits seamlessly into your busy weeknight routine.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these shrimp are sure to impress your guests with their deliciously bold flavors.
For additional shrimp inspiration, pair these with our Sheet Pan Shrimp or try a simple Shrimp Vegetable Stir for a complete meal!
Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp Ingredients
• Get ready to gather what you need for a delightful culinary experience!
For the Shrimp
- Jumbo Shrimp (16/20 count) – This main protein gives you delicious bite-sized richness; feel free to swap out for chicken or firm tofu for a variation.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp beautifully; Greek yogurt mixed with vinegar works as a great substitute too.
For the Coating
- Cornstarch – Ensures a delightful crispy coating when fried; all-purpose flour can be an alternative if cornstarch isn’t on hand.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses the dish with depth and flavor; using fresh minced garlic can offer an even more aromatic punch.
- Black Pepper & Salt – Essential seasonings that enhance overall taste; adjust these to suit your palate.
For the Sauce
- Kewpie Mayonnaise – The key to a creamy and luxurious sauce; regular mayonnaise can replace it, but note that it’ll change the flavor slightly.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a perfect touch of sweetness and mild spice; feel free to use any sweet chili sauce that you love.
- Sriracha – Brings heat and complexity to the mix; adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it.
- Lime Juice – Brightens up the entire dish; fresh or bottled lime juice both work wonderfully.
For Frying
- Canola Oil – Essential for that crispy finish; vegetable oil is a great alternative that can easily be used.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create these irresistible Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp
Step 1: Prep Shrimp
Begin by peeling and deveining 16 to 20 jumbo shrimp, ensuring they’re clean and ready for cooking. Rinse them under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well during frying. This step is crucial for achieving the ultimate crispy texture that defines your Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp.
Step 2: Marinate
In a bowl, soak the cleaned shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This will tenderize your shrimp and enhance their flavor, preparing them for the crispy coating to come. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap to keep everything fresh while the shrimp absorb those delicious buttermilk flavors.
Step 3: Make Sauce
While the shrimp are marinating, whisk together Kewpie mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined. This sauce will add the sweet and spicy component that elevates your Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp, providing a creamy contrast to the crunchy exterior.
Step 4: Prepare Coating
In another bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to create a flavorful coating for the shrimp. This dry mixture is key to achieving that ideal golden-brown crunch when fried. Ensure it is evenly combined to coat every shrimp piece thoroughly as you prepare to dredge them.
Step 5: Dredge Shrimp
Remove the marinated shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Working in batches, toss each shrimp into the cornstarch mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. This process creates a delightful barrier that will crisp beautifully in the hot oil, giving your Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp their coveted crunch.
Step 6: Heat Oil
Pour canola oil into a large skillet and heat to 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the temperature, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy texture; too cool oil will leave the shrimp greasy instead of golden and crunchy.
Step 7: Fry Shrimp
Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be cautious not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and affect crispiness. Watch for that beautiful golden hue to know they’re ready to be removed.
Step 8: Drain
Once fried, remove the shrimp from the skillet using a slotted spoon or tongs, and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This draining process allows excess oil to escape, keeping your Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp light and not overly greasy. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they cool slightly.
Step 9: Coat with Sauce
In a large bowl, add the freshly fried shrimp and drizzle the prepared sauce over them. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly with the creamy, sweet, and spicy goodness. This is where the magic happens; each shrimp transforms into a flavor-packed bite that embodies the essence of Boom Boom Shrimp.
Step 10: Serve
Plate your succulent Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp, garnishing with sliced green onions and lime wedges. Serve hot to enjoy their optimal flavor and crunch. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a main event at your dining table, ready to impress family and friends with every delicious bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, which not only saves time but also enhances their flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep its delightful creaminess intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, fry until golden brown, and toss them in the sauce. By following these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy the same irresistible crunch and mouthwatering flavor with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp
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Oil Temperature Matters: Maintain your oil at 350°F to ensure a crispy finish. Too low and the shrimp will absorb excess oil; too high can burn them.
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Batch Frying: Fry the shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the skillet can reduce oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking and sogginess.
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Drain Properly: After frying, let the shrimp rest on paper towels to remove excess oil. This helps maintain their nice and crispy texture.
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Customize Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients. Add more sriracha for heat or sweet chili sauce for extra sweetness, making your Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp truly your own.
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Quick Serve: Serve the shrimp immediately after coating them with sauce to enjoy their peak crunch and flavor. They’re best fresh out of the fryer!
What to Serve with Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp
Enhance your culinary experience with delightful pairings that truly complement the flavors of each crunchy bite.
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Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of coconut rice balances the spicy notes of the shrimp perfectly. It’s a fragrant base that allows the shrimp to shine.
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Asian Slaw: Crisp, crunchy vegetables tossed in a light sesame dressing add a refreshing contrast to the warm, crunchy shrimp. The colors and textures will make your plate pop!
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Sticky Thai Noodles: These noodles, infused with a mild sweetness, tie together beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauce, creating a complete dinner experience that’s utterly satisfying.
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Quick Cucumber Salad: A light salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the shrimp for a more balanced dish.
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Garlic Bread: Best for those who adore an additional crunch on their tables, garlic bread brings a comforting element that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce of the shrimp.
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Cold Sake or Sparkling Water: Refreshing drinks like cold sake or sparkling water with a wedge of lime will enhance your meal while cleansing the palate between bites.
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Mango Sorbet: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a refreshing mango sorbet. The fruity sweetness is a delightful way to cool down after enjoying the spicy shrimp.
These pairings offer a medley of flavors, textures, and sensations to accompany your Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp perfectly!
Storage Tips for Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp
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Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days to maintain their flavor and freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, place cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
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Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat thawed shrimp in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, ensuring they stay crunchy and delicious.
Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp Serving Suggestions
As you savor these vibrant flavors of Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance your dining experience and bring balance to the dish.
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Crispy Vegetables: Serve alongside a colorful medley of crispy vegetables such as snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots, lightly tossed in soy sauce for added crunch and flavor.
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Savory Rice: A side of jasmine or coconut rice complements the shrimp beautifully, lending a mild base to soak up that delicious sweet and spicy sauce.
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Refreshing Salad: A fresh Asian slaw with cabbage, edamame, and a sesame dressing brightens the plate and adds a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the shrimp.
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Zesty Dipping Sauce: Offer extra sauce for dipping on the side, ensuring every bite can be coated in creamy deliciousness. You could even try our Garlic Shrimp Spinach for a different twist if you’re in the mood.
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Chilled Beverages: Pair your meal with chilled drinks like iced green tea or a light white wine that highlight the Asian-inspired theme beautifully.
Create a vibrant dining experience that everyone will enjoy, transforming your mealtime into a celebration of flavors!
Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for jumbo shrimp with a count of 16/20 which means you get about 16 to 20 shrimp per pound. They should be firm, moist, and free from any dark spots. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy odor; fresh shrimp should have a mild sea breeze scent.
How should I store leftover Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp?
Very! Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. This helps keep them fresh and flavorful for your next snack or meal! Just remember, they’re best enjoyed immediately after frying.
Can I freeze cooked Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze them, lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer bag and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to regain that crunchy texture.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy shrimp during frying?
The key is to maintain that oil temperature at a consistent 350°F. Use a thermometer to check the heat, and always fry in small batches—this prevents overcrowding, which can cause the shrimp to steam rather than fry. Drain them on paper towels immediately after frying to get rid of excess oil.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary preferences, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a dairy-free option, swap buttermilk for coconut milk. For a low-carb version, you can use crushed pork rinds instead of cornstarch. Just remember, adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste, and cater to any food allergies you might have!
Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp: Irresistibly Crunchy and Spicy Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and deveining 16 to 20 jumbo shrimp, rinse them under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Soak the cleaned shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize them.
- Whisk together Kewpie mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Mix cornstarch, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in another bowl to create a coating.
- Remove the marinated shrimp from the buttermilk and toss each shrimp into the cornstarch mixture.
- Pour canola oil into a large skillet and heat to 350°F.
- Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the shrimp using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Drizzle the prepared sauce over the fried shrimp and toss gently to coat.
- Plate your shrimp and garnish with sliced green onions and lime wedges. Serve hot.
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