Bang Bang!

I have recently discovered the delights of Bang Bang Shrimp, and boy oh boy am I happy that I did! It all started on our honeymoon in Aruba. We visited a wonderful little restaurant named Madame Janette's, and loved it so much we actually went back there later in the week (for those of you who know Andy and me, that says A LOT about how much we liked this place!). On our first visit, our server eagerly told us about their new chef from Miami who is totally upgrading the menu. He said that one of the specialties of the chef is Bang Bang Shrimp. Andy and I looked at each other. Bang Bang... what?? After reading the description, and I quote "sweet and spicy crispy shrimp" we quickly ordered! We took one bite and were hooked! These little bites of Heaven were so amazing, I couldn't stop thinking about them (sweet, spicy, crispy... um yes!). About a month ago the Bang Bang Shrimp popped into my mind, and I figured they were worth a shot at making at home. After several attempts and a variety of resources, I believe I have found a winning recipe of Bang Bang Shrimp. Enjoy!

Bang Bang Shrimp

 
1 lb medium sized shrimp, peeled and deveined (cubed chicken works as a variation)
3/4 c. all purpose flour
1/2 c. cornstarch
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 eggs
oil for frying
1/3 c. mayonnaise
1/4 c. Thai style sweet chili sauce
10-20 drops sriracha, to taste (I suggest starting with less then working your way up)
1 tsp. Sambal Oelek (Asian HOT chili paste)
Bibb lettuce leaves, for serving

Heat a pot of oil to approximately 350 degrees. Make the sauce: mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and Sambal Oelek in a large bowl. Adjust heat to taste by adding more sriracha, if desired. 

Mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, then into the egg, then coat again in the flour mixture forming a thick crust. Fry the shrimp in the oil in small batches for approximately 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with all shrimp.

Coat the fried shrimp in the sauce, and scoop into a serving bowl lined with lettuce. Eat in lettuce leaves, or on their own. Bet you can't eat just one! Enjoy :o)