Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich is a delightful dish that brings together crispy shrimp and zesty flavors in a soft sub bun. Perfect for a casual lunch, dinner, or even entertaining guests, this sandwich will impress with its unique taste and appealing presentation. The combination of creamy sauces and fresh toppings makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious sandwich in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The spicy bang bang sauce adds a kick that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp.
• Versatile Option: This recipe can be tailored to your taste preferences by adjusting the spice level or adding extra toppings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sandwich, making it ideal for family meals.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make the shrimp ahead of time and assemble your sandwiches when ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Frying pan: Ensures even cooking of the shrimp for that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce consistency by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
• Tongs: Perfect for safely turning shrimp while frying without burning your hands.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp (deveined with shells removed (about 21-26 shrimp))
• 2 teaspoons mustard
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 egg beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sandwich

• 1 pack of soft white sub buns
• 1 head butter lettuce
• 2 tomatoes off the vine

For the Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice grape juice vinegar

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: bang bang shrimp, bang bang shrimp recipe, easy shrimp recipe, fried shrimp recipe, po boy recipe

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Create the Coating Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, lemon pepper, garlic powder, seasoned salt, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well with a whisk.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp into the beaten egg first, then dredge them in the flour mixture until they are fully coated.

Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying

In a frying pan over medium heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Heat until it shimmers.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

Carefully add coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use tongs to flip them halfway through.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

In another mixing bowl, combine mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice grape juice vinegar. Stir until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Spread some of the sauce on each sub bun. Add butter lettuce and sliced tomatoes. Top with crispy fried shrimp and drizzle more sauce over if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

Serving a Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich is all about enhancing the flavors and textures. This sandwich can be enjoyed in various ways, ensuring everyone finds a favorite.

Classic Serving

• Fresh Ingredients: Use crisp butter lettuce and juicy tomatoes for a refreshing crunch.
• Saucy Finish: Drizzle extra bang bang sauce on top for an added kick.

Gourmet Touch

• Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices for a rich texture that balances the spiciness.
• Pickled Veggies: Include pickled red onions or jalapeños for a tangy contrast.

Family Style

• Sandwich Platter: Cut each sandwich into smaller pieces for easy sharing during gatherings.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside extra mayo and sriracha for dipping.

Personal Preference

• Customizable Options: Encourage guests to add their favorite toppings like cucumber or radish for extra freshness.
• Spicy Variations: Offer additional hot sauce on the side for those who love more heat.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

To make the best Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich, consider these essential tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Use a blend of spices to coat the shrimp, ensuring they are flavorful and crispy.
• Proper Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil at the right temperature to achieve a golden-brown finish without excess grease.
• Fresh Buns: Choose soft, fresh sub buns that will hold up well against the filling without getting soggy.
• Layering Technique: Start with lettuce on the bun to create a barrier that prevents moisture from reaching the bread.
• Sauce Balance: Adjust the amount of bang bang sauce based on your preference for heat and creaminess.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy sandwiches right after assembling them to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

Pairing your Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. French Fries: Crispy fries seasoned with salt make a classic pairing that adds crunch.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a cool contrast to the spicy shrimp, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
3. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer a hint of sweetness that balances the spiciness of the sandwich.
4. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette keeps things fresh and healthy alongside your hearty sandwich.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter adds a sweet, smoky element to your meal.
6. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips can be served on the side for an additional textural component that complements the sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong shrimp size: Choosing shrimp that are too large or too small can affect the texture. Aim for medium-sized shrimp (21-26 count) for the best results.
• Overbreading the shrimp: Applying too much flour can lead to a heavy coating. Use a light hand when dredging to ensure a crispy finish without overwhelming the shrimp flavor.
• Not checking oil temperature: Frying in oil that’s too hot or too cold will result in soggy or burnt shrimp. Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent frying temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the shrimp enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step; let your shrimp soak in mustard and hot sauce for at least 15 minutes.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using fresh ingredients, especially lettuce and tomatoes, makes a big difference in taste. Always check for freshness before assembling your sandwich.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

• For best results, freeze the fried shrimp separately from the bread and toppings.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 3 months frozen.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm, but this may make bread soggy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to maintain crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich?

A Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich features crispy shrimp tossed in a spicy sauce, served on soft sub buns with fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your buns are gluten-free as well.

How do I customize my Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich?

You can add avocado, pickles, or even coleslaw to give it extra crunch and flavor!

What type of sauce can I use instead of sriracha?

If you prefer less heat, try using sweet chili sauce or a mild hot sauce for flavor without overwhelming spice.

Conclusion

The Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or sauces to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try for an enjoyable meal that’s sure to impress!

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