Keto Bang Bang Shrimp: A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave a dish that’s both indulgent and keto-friendly, look no further than Keto Bang Bang Shrimp. This dish takes the beloved flavors of the classic Bang Bang Shrimp and transforms them into a low-carb masterpiece that’s perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle. With its crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your dietary goals.

In this article, we’ll dive into the origins of Bang Bang Shrimp, explore how to make it keto-friendly, and provide a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious dish at home. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself to a flavorful meal, this recipe is a winner.

The Origins of Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish that originated in American restaurants, particularly in seafood chains. It’s known for its crispy texture and creamy, slightly spicy sauce that packs a flavorful punch. The name “Bang Bang” is said to come from the explosive flavors that hit your taste buds with every bite.

Traditionally, the dish is made with fried shrimp tossed in a sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and other ingredients. However, the classic version is often high in carbs due to the breading and sugary sauces. By making a few simple swaps, we’ve created a keto-friendly version that’s just as delicious—if not more so!

Why You’ll Love Keto Bang Bang Shrimp

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: This recipe uses almond flour and spices for the breading, keeping it low in carbs and perfect for a ketogenic diet.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Bold and Flavorful: The combination of crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce is irresistible.
Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or even as a topping for salads.

Key Ingredients for Keto Bang Bang Shrimp

To make Keto Bang Bang Shrimp, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

Shrimp: Opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Almond Flour: This low-carb alternative to traditional breading adds a crispy texture.
Egg: Helps the almond flour adhere to the shrimp.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and salt add flavor to the breading.
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: For frying the shrimp.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy foundation of the sauce.
Sriracha or Hot Sauce: Adds a spicy kick.
Low-Carb Sweetener: A keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia balances the heat.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy note to the sauce.
Garlic Powder: Enhances the flavor of the sauce.

For Serving:

Fresh Herbs: Chopped green onions or parsley add a pop of color and freshness.
Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy finish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Keto Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the breading sticks well.
In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In another bowl, combine almond flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
Dip each shrimp into the egg, then coat it evenly with the almond flour mixture. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding).
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy. Take the food out of the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, low-carb sweetener, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
Mix until smooth and well combined. Tailor the spice level to your taste by increasing or reducing the amount of sriracha.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Toss the crispy shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Keto Bang Bang Shrimp

Use Fresh Shrimp: For optimal flavor and texture, always choose fresh shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the shrimp in batches ensures they get crispy instead of steaming.
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha. For an extra kick of spice, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the shrimp may lose their crispiness over time.

Serving Suggestions

Keto Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

Appetizer: Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy sharing.
Main Dish: Pair the shrimp with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
Salad Topping: Add the shrimp to a bed of mixed greens for a flavorful keto salad.
Tacos: Serve the shrimp in lettuce wraps with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of extra sauce.

Conclusion

Keto Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle. With its crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe for quick dinners, party appetizers, or even a special treat. By using simple, keto-friendly ingredients, you can enjoy all the bold flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp without the guilt.

So, the next time you’re craving something crispy, creamy, and full of flavor, give this Keto Bang Bang Shrimp recipe a try. It’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Enjoy!

How To Make Easy Keto Bang Bang Shrimp