Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

The Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. This dish combines crispy shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce, all nestled in soft sub buns. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something delicious, this sandwich will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Its unique blend of seasonings ensures every bite bursts with flavor, making it a standout choice for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up this tasty sandwich in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and sauces creates a mouthwatering profile that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for casual lunches, picnics, or even game day gatherings; this recipe fits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love the crispy shrimp and creamy sauce, making it a family favorite.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or toppings to cater to your personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious po’ boy sandwich.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan or deep skillet
• Cooking thermometer (optional)
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Frying pan or deep skillet: Provides ample space for frying the shrimp evenly for that perfect crispiness.
• Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess oil while keeping the shrimp intact during serving.

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 Assembly

• 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 using paper towels to ensure they fry well.

Step 2: Make the Coating Mixture

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

Step 3: Breading the Shrimp

Coat each shrimp in mustard first, then dip into the beaten egg. Finally, roll them in the prepared flour mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying

In a frying pan or deep skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat to submerge half of each shrimp. Use a cooking thermometer if available; aim for about 350°F (175°C).

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

Carefully add breaded shrimp into hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice grape juice vinegar until smooth and well combined.

Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Spread a generous amount of sauce on each side of the soft white sub buns. Layer with butter lettuce and slices of vine-ripened tomatoes before adding crispy fried shrimp on top.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwiches immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. Enjoy!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

Serving a Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich is all about enhancing the flavors and creating an enjoyable dining experience. This sandwich can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement your meal.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices add richness and balance the spicy shrimp.
• Pickled Vegetables – Add tangy pickled carrots or radishes for a crunchy texture.
• Coleslaw – A light coleslaw adds extra crunch and freshness, making it a perfect pairing.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Extra Bang Bang Sauce – Serve additional sauce on the side for those who love a kick of flavor.
• Garlic Aioli – A creamy garlic aioli elevates the sandwich with its smooth texture.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens – A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the sandwich nicely.
• Mediterranean Salad – A refreshing salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives pairs perfectly with the flavors of the sandwich.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

To create the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich, follow these useful tips. These will help you achieve that crispy texture and flavorful taste that everyone loves.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp – Opt for high-quality shrimp for better flavor and texture.
• Control Oil Temperature – Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy crust without greasy shrimp.
• Season Your Flour Mixture – Seasoning the flour mix enhances the overall flavor of the shrimp.
• Let Drain After Frying – Allow fried shrimp to drain on paper towels to remove excess oil for a lighter bite.
• Customize Spice Level – Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in your batter for more or less heat according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

Pairing your Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich with delicious sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that go well with this Asian-inspired delight.

1. Crispy French Fries – Golden fries are a classic side that complements any sandwich; try seasoning them with garlic powder for added flavor.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges – Baked sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast to spicy shrimp; serve them with a sprinkle of sea salt.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter provides a sweet and savory addition that’s great during summer months.
4. Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad balances out the spice of the sandwich and adds heartiness to your meal.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy fried green tomatoes bring a Southern twist that pairs nicely with seafood flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a cool contrast against the warm po’ boy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong shrimp size: Always choose medium to large shrimp (21-26 count) for the best texture and flavor in your sandwich.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking will make them rubbery.
• Skipping the seasoning: Properly season both the shrimp and the batter to enhance flavor. Don’t be shy with your spices!
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Use fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes for a crisp, vibrant sandwich. Old veggies can spoil the dish.
• Inadequate sauce preparation: Be sure to mix your sauces well before adding them to ensure an even distribution of flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep any remaining sauce separate to maintain crispness.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• You can freeze them for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place sandwiches on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, flipping carefully until warmed, about 5 minutes.

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 in a soft sub bun with fresh lettuce and tomatoes.

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

You can add toppings like avocado, pickles, or extra hot sauce for added flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

How do I make the sauce for Bang Bang Shrimp?

Mix mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice grape juice vinegar until smooth. Adjust the sweetness or spiciness based on preference.

What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Consider serving it with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The Bang Bang Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes it an irresistible main dish. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or sauces!