Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe

Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe – Crispy, Spicy, and Creamy Perfection

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If you love crispy shrimp with a spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet sauce, then this boom boom shrimp recipe is a must-try! This dish is crispy, bold, and absolutely addictive, making it perfect as an appetizer, a game-day snack, or even a main course.

The key to its deliciousness lies in the famous boom boom sauce, a creamy and tangy mayo-based sauce with a spicy kick, similar to the beloved bang bang sauce but with a slightly richer, bolder flavor. Whether you’re frying, baking, or air-frying the shrimp, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best boom boom shrimp, including step-by-step instructions, expert tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Boom Boom Shrimp

To make the crispiest, most flavorful boom boom shrimp, you’ll need a few key ingredients for perfectly fried shrimp and the signature boom boom sauce.

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp – Peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation, optional).
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Helps the coating stick.
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch – Adds crispiness.
  • 1 tsp salt – Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a mild spice.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder – For extra depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and color.
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – For extra heat.
  • 2 eggs – Helps the coating stick.
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – For extra crunch.
  • Vegetable oil (for frying) – Canola or peanut oil works best.

For the Boom Boom Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and a touch of heat.
  • 2 tbsp sriracha – For a spicy kick (adjust to taste).
  • 1 tbsp ketchup – Adds a slight tangy sweetness.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder – Boosts the flavor.
  • 1 tsp honey (optional) – Balances the heat with sweetness.
  • 1 tsp lemon juice – Brightens the sauce.

For Serving and Garnishing:

  • Chopped parsley or green onions – For a fresh finish.
  • Lemon wedges – Adds a citrusy contrast.
  • Shredded lettuce or cabbage – If serving in tacos or as a salad topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
  4. In another dish, add panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Coat and Fry the Shrimp

  1. Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally into panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  2. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C).
  3. Fry the shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Remove shrimp and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Boom Boom Sauce

  1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, ketchup, garlic powder, honey, and lemon juice.
  2. Taste and adjust spice levels if needed.
  3. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 4: Toss Shrimp in Boom Boom Sauce

  1. Place the crispy shrimp in a large bowl.
  2. Drizzle boom boom sauce over the shrimp and toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Transfer shrimp to a serving plate.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
  3. Serve with lemon wedges and extra sauce on the side.

Tips for the Best Boom Boom Shrimp

To make sure your boom boom shrimp turns out crispy, flavorful, and perfectly coated in sauce, follow these expert tips:

1. Choose the Right Shrimp

  • Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and presentation.
  • Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before coating.
  • Leave the tails on for a more professional, restaurant-style look.

2. Get the Perfect Crispy Coating

  • Cornstarch + flour creates a light, crispy coating without being too heavy.
  • Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch—use them for an ultra-crispy texture.
  • Make sure to shake off excess flour before frying to avoid clumps.

3. Adjust the Spice Level

  • For spicier shrimp: Add extra sriracha to the sauce or cayenne pepper to the flour mix.
  • For milder shrimp: Use less sriracha and add more honey or mayonnaise to mellow out the heat.

4. Best Frying Technique

  • Use medium-high heat (350°F/175°C) to get a crispy golden-brown crust.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook shrimp in batches to keep them crispy.
  • Drain shrimp on paper towels or a wire rack to maintain crispiness.

5. Want to Skip Frying?

  • Air Fryer Method: Cook shrimp at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Oven-Baked Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.

Variations of Boom Boom Shrimp Recipes

1. Grilled Boom Boom Shrimp

  • Toss shrimp in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Brush with boom boom sauce before serving.

2. Air Fryer Boom Boom Shrimp

  • Coat shrimp as usual but spray with cooking oil before air frying.
  • Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

3. Boom Boom Shrimp Tacos

  • Serve shrimp in warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, avocado, and extra sauce.

4. Low-Carb Boom Boom Shrimp

  • Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps instead of bread or tortillas.

What to Serve with Boom Boom Shrimp?

1. Best Dipping Sauces

  • Extra Boom Boom Sauce – Because you can never have too much!
  • Ranch Dressing – A creamy, cooling contrast.
  • Spicy Mayo – Adds an extra kick.

2. Classic Side Dishes

  • French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries – A crispy, delicious pairing.
  • Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch.
  • Steamed Rice or Fried Rice – Turns it into a full meal.

3. Refreshing Drink Pairings

  • Cold Beer (IPA or Lager) – Balances the heat perfectly.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade – A great non-alcoholic option.
  • Margaritas or Pina Coladas – For a tropical touch!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them completely under cold running water and pat dry before coating.

2. How Do I Store and Reheat Boom Boom Shrimp?

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp soggy.

3. Can I Make It Without Frying?

Yes! Bake or air fry for a healthier alternative without sacrificing crispiness.

4. What’s the Difference Between Boom Boom Sauce and Bang Bang Sauce?

  • Boom Boom Sauce has a spicier, bolder flavor with sriracha and ketchup.
  • Bang Bang Sauce is slightly sweeter and creamier, usually made with honey and mayo.

5. Can I Make It Mild?

Yes! Reduce the sriracha amount and add more mayo and honey to mellow out the heat.

Conclusion

This boom boom shrimp recipe is the ultimate crispy, spicy, and creamy seafood dish, perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a game-day snack, appetizer, or main course. With quick cooking time and customizable heat levels, this dish is both easy to make and packed with bold flavor.

Whether you choose to deep-fry, bake, or air-fry, these shrimp turn out golden, crispy, and coated in the perfect boom boom sauce. Pair them with fries, rice, or tacos, and you’ve got a winning meal!

So, grab your shrimp, whip up that boom boom sauce, and get ready to enjoy one of the best shrimp dishes ever! 🔥🍤