If there’s one appetizer that knows how to steal the spotlight, it’s Boom Boom Shrimp. This crispy, golden shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce is the perfect balance of heat and flavor. It’s no wonder why it’s become a crowd favorite at restaurants and dinner tables alike. The best part? We can recreate this irresistible dish right at home.
Boom Boom Shrimp has its roots in Asian-inspired cuisine, but its popularity has skyrocketed thanks to its bold flavors and versatility. Whether we’re serving it as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, it never fails to impress. The combination of crunchy shrimp and that signature tangy sauce is pure magic.
Boom Boom Shrimp Recipes
Let’s dive into crafting Boom Boom Shrimp, the crispy and creamy sensation with an irresistible spicy kick. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or satisfying a mid-week craving, these steps will guide us to perfection.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to recreate this delectable dish:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Boom Boom Sauce:
- ½ cup of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of sriracha
- 1 tablespoon of sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Make the Coating
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. This mixture creates the crispy outer layer we all crave.
3. Heat the Oil
- Fill a deep skillet or pot with about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat it to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature remains consistent.
4. Coat and Fry
- Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off.
- Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Prepare the Boom Boom Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed. The sauce should be creamy with a balance of sweet and heat.
Assembly
- Place the fried shrimp on a serving plate.
- Drizzle the Boom Boom Sauce generously over the shrimp or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Double Coating | To make the shrimp extra crispy, repeat the dredging step before frying. |
| Spice Adjustments | Add more sriracha for extra heat or more honey for sweetness. |
| Sauce Consistency | Thin out the sauce with a splash of water if it feels too thick for dipping. |
Ingredients
To prepare the ultimate Boom Boom Shrimp, we’ll need fresh, quality ingredients for both the crispy shrimp and the creamy, spicy Boom Boom Sauce. Below, we’ve highlighted the essentials for each component.
For The Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For The Boom Boom Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (or more for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Tools And Equipment
To make the perfect Boom Boom Shrimp, having the right tools and equipment is as crucial as using fresh ingredients. Here’s a detailed list of the essential items you’ll need for frying the shrimp and preparing the sauce. Each tool plays a vital role in achieving the crispy texture and creamy sauce this dish is famous for.
1. Tools For Shrimp Preparation:
- Large mixing bowls: For marinating the shrimp in buttermilk and coating them evenly in the flour mixture.
- Whisk: To blend dry ingredients and ensure an even coating mix.
- Tongs: Essential for dipping shrimp into the batter and transferring coated shrimp to the frying oil without mess.
- Cutting board and knife: In case deveining or tail removal is needed for the shrimp.
2. Tools For Frying:
- Heavy-bottomed skillet or deep frying pan: A wide, sturdy skillet ensures even cooking and maintains oil temperature. A cast iron skillet works best for consistent heat.
- Deep-fry thermometer: For monitoring oil temperature (between 350°F to 375°F is ideal for frying shrimp to golden perfection).
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer: To scoop out shrimp from the hot oil, allowing excess oil to drain properly.
- Paper towels or wire rack: For draining fried shrimp and keeping them crispy without getting soggy.
3. Tools For Boom Boom Sauce:
- Small mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Rubber spatula: To scrape every bit of the luscious Boom Boom Sauce from the bowl.
- Measuring spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients like mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha that define the sauce’s flavor.
4. Serving Tools:
- Serving platter: A large, flat platter showcases the beautifully fried shrimp surrounded by a drizzle or side of Boom Boom Sauce.
- Squeeze bottle (optional): For creatively drizzling the sauce uniformly over the shrimp.
Quick Reference Table:
Below is a handy table summarizing the key tools based on the task:
| Task | Equipment Needed |
|---|---|
| Shrimp Preparation | Large mixing bowl, whisk, tongs, cutting board, knife |
| Frying | Skillet, deep-fry thermometer, slotted spoon, wire rack |
| Sauce Preparation | Small mixing bowl, rubber spatula, measuring spoons |
| Serving | Serving platter, squeeze bottle (optional) |
Directions
Let’s dive into step-by-step instructions for making your Boom Boom Shrimp. Follow along for crispy, flavorful shrimp paired with the perfect creamy sauce.
Prep
- Marinate the shrimp:
- Peel and devein 1 lb of large shrimp, leaving the tails on if desired.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring all the shrimp are submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to soak up flavor.
- Prepare the dry coating:
- In another bowl, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornstarch, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside for dredging.
- Make the Boom Boom sauce:
- Whisk together the following in a small mixing bowl until smooth:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level preference)
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of half a lime (about 1 tbsp)
- Cover and refrigerate the sauce while preparing the shrimp to enhance the flavor consistency.
Cook
- Heat the oil:
- Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan, filling it to about 2 inches deep. Using a deep-fry thermometer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
- Dredge the shrimp:
- Remove the marinated shrimp from the buttermilk, shaking off any excess liquid.
- Coat each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a crispy coating. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate.
- Fry the shrimp:
- Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs to remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Assemble
- Toss in Boom Boom sauce:
- Place the fried shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the prepared Boom Boom sauce over the shrimp and gently toss to coat evenly. Add more sauce if desired for extra flavor.
- Serve and garnish:
- Transfer the coated shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or a pinch of sesame seeds for a vibrant garnish.
- Serve immediately with the remaining Boom Boom sauce on the side for dipping.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
Preparing Boom Boom Shrimp ahead of time or storing leftovers correctly ensures maximum freshness and flavor. Here’s how we can manage both aspects efficiently:
Make-Ahead Tips
- Marinate Early:
- We can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and spices up to 6 hours in advance. Store the marinated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and ready for frying.
- Pre-Make the Sauce:
- The Boom Boom Sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead. Once made, transfer it to an airtight container or jar and refrigerate. Stir well before use to maintain the creamy texture.
- Prepare the Coating:
- Mix the dry ingredients for the shrimp coating (flour, cornstarch, and spices) ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 1 week. This step saves time when you’re ready to cook.
- Fry Just Before Serving:
- While some components can be prepared in advance, the shrimp should be fried right before serving to maintain that signature crispness.
Storage Guidelines
Storing Leftovers:
If you have leftover cooked Boom Boom Shrimp, proper storage is key to preserving their deliciousness.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Shrimp | Store in an airtight container. | Up to 2 days in the fridge. |
| Boom Boom Sauce | Refrigerate in a sealed container. | Up to 3 days. |
- Do not coat and refrigerate: If possible, avoid refrigerating shrimp already tossed in the sauce. Instead, store them separately—shrimp in one container and sauce in another—to maintain texture.
Reheating Tips
- Reheat Shrimp in the Oven:
- Place leftover shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 7-10 minutes. This method helps restore their crispy texture.
- Avoid Microwaving:
- Microwaving can make the shrimp rubbery and the coating soggy—we recommend sticking to the oven or even an air fryer for reheating.
- Reheat Sauce Separately:
- To warm the Boom Boom Sauce, use a gentle method. Mix it in a small saucepan over low heat or let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
By following these Make-Ahead And Storage Tips, we can enjoy freshly-prepared Boom Boom Shrimp without compromising taste and texture, whether it’s made the same day or reheated later.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Boom Boom Shrimp, the presentation and pairings can elevate this delightful dish to a whole new level. Whether we’re treating guests at a party or indulging in a quick family dinner, these serving tips and ideas will help highlight the crispy texture and bold flavors of our shrimp. Let’s dive into some versatile and creative ways to serve Boom Boom Shrimp:
1. Appetizer Platter
Serve the crispy Boom Boom Shrimp on a large platter as bite-sized appetizers. Arrange the shrimp in a circle, and place a small dipping cup of extra Boom Boom Sauce in the center for easy access. Garnish the platter with:
- Thinly sliced green onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Lemon or lime wedges
For an extra crunch, we can line the platter with crispy shredded lettuce or cabbage.
2. Tacos and Wraps
Transform our shrimp into zesty taco or wrap fillings. Simply load warm tortillas or wraps with:
- A handful of cabbage slaw (tossed with lime juice for tanginess)
- Freshly fried Boom Boom Shrimp
- A drizzle of the rich Boom Boom Sauce
- Toppings like diced tomatoes and avocado
Pro Tip: Use soft flour or corn tortillas heated on a skillet for that perfect texture.
3. Rice or Noodle Bowls
Pair our shrimp with rice or noodles for a quick, satisfying meal. Create a nourishing bowl by layering:
- A bed of warm steamed white or jasmine rice
- Fresh vegetables like edamame, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumbers
- Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp, drizzled generously with sauce
Alternatively, toss Boom Boom Shrimp with ramen or soba noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.
4. Slider Sandwiches
Make savory mini sandwiches by placing a few pieces of shrimp between slider buns. Add:
- A spread of extra Boom Boom Sauce on the buns
- A layer of crunchy slaw
- Optional: Pickled onions or jalapeños for added flavor
Serve sliders on a wooden board for a casual, delicious treat.
5. Salad Topping
Crispy Boom Boom Shrimp can add bold flavor to fresh salads. Toss together:
- A mix of greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
- Cherry tomatoes, julienned carrots, and thinly sliced bell peppers
- A light vinaigrette or a drizzle of Boom Boom Sauce
Top generously with shrimp and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for texture.
6. Party Cocktail Pairing
Pair Boom Boom Shrimp with refreshing cocktails. For a complete experience, match them with:
- Margaritas
- Mojitos
- Citrus-infused cocktails like a Paloma or Orange Spritz
Their crispiness and tangy-spicy flavor perfectly complement the light and zesty notes of citrus-based drinks.
Serving Temperature and Tips
- Always serve Boom Boom Shrimp immediately after frying to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Have extra Boom Boom Sauce ready on the side for guests who want an extra kick.
Quick Reference Table
| Serving Style | Key Additions | Great For |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizer Platter | Green onions, cilantro, lime wedges | Parties and gatherings |
| Tacos and Wraps | Cabbage slaw, tomatoes, avocado | Lunch or casual dinners |
| Rice or Noodle Bowls | Steamed rice, edamame, veggies | Quick meals |
| Slider Sandwiches | Boom Boom Sauce, slaw, pickled onions | Game nights or potlucks |
| Salad Topping | Mixed greens, veggies, sesame seeds | Healthy meals |
| Party Cocktail Pairing | Citrus cocktails like Palomas or Mojitos | Entertaining guests |
Each serving style adds versatility to this dish, keeping it exciting for all occasions. By experimenting with these suggestions, we can turn Boom Boom Shrimp into a crowd-pleasing centerpiece every time.
Conclusion
Boom Boom Shrimp is more than just a dish—it’s a flavorful experience that brings excitement to any table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a family dinner, or craving a quick snack, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and versatility.
With the right ingredients, tools, and a little preparation, recreating restaurant-quality Boom Boom Shrimp at home is easier than ever. From its crispy coating to the bold, creamy sauce, every bite is a perfect balance of spice and flavor. Let’s make this crowd-pleaser a staple in our kitchens and elevate our mealtime moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Boom Boom Shrimp?
Boom Boom Shrimp is a crispy, fried shrimp dish coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s known for its perfect balance of heat and flavor, making it a popular appetizer or snack option.
Where does Boom Boom Shrimp originate from?
Boom Boom Shrimp has Asian-inspired roots, blending flavors commonly associated with Asian cuisine, such as sweet chili and sriracha, for a bold and delicious taste.
What ingredients do I need for Boom Boom Shrimp?
Key ingredients include large shrimp, buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and oil for frying. For the sauce, you’ll need mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice.
How do you make Boom Boom Shrimp?
Marinate shrimp in buttermilk, coat them in seasoned flour, and fry until crispy. Prepare the Boom Boom sauce separately, then toss the shrimp in the sauce before serving.
How can I make the shrimp extra crispy?
Use a blend of flour and cornstarch in the coating and ensure the oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F) before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes! Reduce or increase the amount of cayenne pepper or sriracha in the coating and sauce to suit your spice preference.
What tools do I need to prepare Boom Boom Shrimp?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, a whisk, tongs, a heavy-bottomed skillet, a deep-fry thermometer, and measuring spoons.
Can I make Boom Boom Shrimp ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp marinade, sauce, and dry coating in advance. However, fry the shrimp just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
How should I store leftover Boom Boom Shrimp?
Store cooked shrimp and sauce in separate airtight containers. For the best texture, reheat shrimp in an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave.
What are some creative serving ideas for Boom Boom Shrimp?
Serve the shrimp as an appetizer, in tacos or wraps, with rice or noodles, on salads, or as slider sandwiches. Garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds for added flavor.
What pairs well with Boom Boom Shrimp?
Boom Boom Shrimp pairs well with cocktails like mojitos, margaritas, or light beer. Extra Boom Boom sauce or dipping sauces can enhance the dining experience.