Learn how to make crispy, tangy Boom Boom Shrimp with a spicy-sweet sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for appetizers or a main dish. Get ready to impress!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Key Ingredients (Exact Measurements)
- Equipment Needed
- Preparation Time
- Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- Tips and Tricks
- Nutritional Information
- FAQs
- Storage Instructions
- Conclusion
Introduction
Boom Boom Shrimp combines crispy fried shrimp with a flavorful, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that’s a hit for any occasion. Whether it’s served as an appetizer or a main course, the recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Originating from a fusion of Southern and Asian cuisine, this dish balances textures and flavors to create an unforgettable experience. The recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or party snacks.
Looking for more seafood inspiration? Try our Artichoke Parmesan Tilapia for a delicious meal to pair with your Boom Boom Shrimp.
Key Ingredients (Exact Measurements)
- 1 ½ lbs large shrimp: Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best results.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Helps tenderize the shrimp and adds a slight tang.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Creates the crispy coating.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the shrimp.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness to the coating.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Gives depth to the flavor.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The base of the Boom Boom sauce.
- 3 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and mild spice.
- 1 tbsp Sriracha: For a fiery kick.
- 1 tbsp ketchup: Balances the sauce with tanginess.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: For the sauce, to enhance the flavor.
- ½ tsp kosher salt: Adds balance to the sauce.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper: Optional for extra heat.
For more about sauces that pair well with seafood, explore our Burger Sauce Recipe which complements shrimp dishes nicely.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the shrimp and sauce.
- Deep frying pan or Dutch oven: For frying the shrimp to crispy perfection.
- Cooking thermometer: To ensure oil reaches 375°F, ideal for frying.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: For removing shrimp from the hot oil.
- Paper towels: To drain excess oil after frying.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 12–15 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Pre-Preparation:
- Prepare the Boom Boom Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, ketchup, garlic powder, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
- Soak the Shrimp: Place shrimp in a bowl of buttermilk and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This tenderizes the shrimp.
Cooking:
- Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 375°F.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Coat the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, shake off excess, and coat them evenly in the flour mixture.
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the Shrimp: Transfer shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Post-Preparation:
- Toss in Sauce: Once the shrimp have cooled slightly, toss them in the prepared Boom Boom sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds and serve as an appetizer or with sides like steamed rice or tortillas for shrimp tacos.
Tips and Tricks
- Fry in Small Batches: This prevents the oil temperature from dropping, keeping the shrimp crispy.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, air fry shrimp at 400°F for 4 minutes after coating them with breadcrumbs.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Sriracha and cayenne pepper in the sauce.
If you love creative sauces, check out our guide on How to Make the Best Chimichurri Sauce, which pairs well with seafood dishes like shrimp.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 410 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 17g
- Sodium: 1552mg
- Cholesterol: 155mg
FAQs
1. What is Boom Boom Shrimp made of?
Boom Boom Shrimp is made of crispy fried shrimp tossed in a tangy, spicy Boom Boom sauce. The sauce includes mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, ketchup, and garlic powder.
2. What to serve with Boom Boom Shrimp?
Pair Boom Boom Shrimp with steamed rice, a cucumber salad, or tortillas for shrimp tacos. For something different, try serving it alongside Sicilian Salmon Risotto for a seafood feast.
3. How do you cook Northern Chef Boom Boom Shrimp?
Pre-breaded Northern Chef Boom Boom Shrimp can be baked or air-fried according to package instructions.
4. Are popcorn shrimp just baby shrimp?
No, popcorn shrimp are smaller shrimp, but not necessarily baby shrimp. They’re typically bite-sized and fried.
5. What is Boom Sauce made of?
Boom Sauce is made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, ketchup, garlic powder, kosher salt, and cayenne for heat.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat shrimp in an oven or air fryer. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
- Make-Ahead Sauce: The Boom Boom sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion
Boom Boom Shrimp is a dish that delivers on both flavor and texture, offering the perfect balance of crispy fried shrimp and a tangy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re preparing it as an appetizer for guests or serving it as a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy and adaptable.
For more seafood inspiration, try pairing Boom Boom Shrimp with our Sicilian Salmon Risotto or our delicious Artichoke Parmesan Tilapia for a complete meal. Let us know your thoughts and variations in the comments!