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Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Favourite

When it comes to quick, delicious meals that pack a punch, Bang Bang Shrimp has etched its name into the culinary lexicon, and with good reason! With its crispy coating and creamy, spicy sauce, this dish has become a beloved staple in many households. Enter the air fryer, a kitchen gadget that has revolutionised cooking by providing that desired crunch without the heaviness of deep frying. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp — a healthier yet equally indulgent alternative.

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Originating from popular seafood restaurants, Bang Bang Shrimp consists of battered and fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, typically made with ingredients like mayonnaise, sriracha, and a touch of sweetness. The combination of heat and creamy texture creates a flavour explosion that is hard to resist. By preparing it in the air fryer, you achieve that satisfying crunch while using significantly less oil, making it a more wholesome option without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this fantastic dish, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

• 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 80g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 100g panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by patting the shrimp dry with kitchen paper to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy texture.

2. Set up the Breading Station: In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, combine the plain flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of salt.

3. Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before transferring it to the panko mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the shrimp to ensure a good coating.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (or 392°F) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown colour.

5. Air Fry the Shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Air fry at 200°C for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until the shrimp are golden and crispy.

6. Make the Sauce: While the shrimp are cooking, whip up the Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the level of sriracha according to your heat preference.

7. Combine and Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a mixing bowl and drizzle your Bang Bang sauce over the top. Gently toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

• Shrimp Size: Opt for large or extra-large shrimp for the best results. They have a more satisfying bite and hold up better during cooking.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Using panko instead of standard breadcrumbs gives a superior crunch due to its larger flakes.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less sriracha in the sauce and add more to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines crispy texture with a creamy, spicy kick, all while being kinder to your waistline. Perfect as a starter, a party appetiser, or simply a satisfying meal on a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

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