Bang Bang Shrimp has earned its place as a fan-favorite dish in many homes and restaurants. But what to eat with Bang Bang Shrimp? This dish features crispy shrimp in a creamy, spicy sauce, offering bold flavors and a rich texture with every bite.
Shrimp is usually fried until golden. It is then mixed with sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and Japanese mayo. This creates a tasty combination of sweetness, spiciness, and creaminess.
To get the most out of this dish, it’s important to know what to eat with Bang Bang Shrimp to elevate the meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or the main dish, choosing the right side dishes is important.
The right sides will help balance the spicy Bang Bang sauce. From fresh, crunchy salads to creamy fries or jasmine rice, the possibilities are endless.
The Versatility of Bang Bang Shrimp
One of the reasons Bang Bang Shrimp is so popular is its versatility. You can enjoy it in many ways: as a starter, main dish, or added to meals like tacos and wraps. Depending on how you serve it, the side dishes can vary significantly.
For appetizers, you may want to go light with something fresh and crunchy to balance the richness of the shrimp. If you serve it as a main dish, add something more filling. Good options include rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables.
The pairing possibilities are endless when deciding what to eat with Bang Bang Shrimp, and choosing the right sides helps balance out the flavors.
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Classic Sides: What to Eat with Bang Bang Shrimp
To make the most of your Bang Bang Shrimp, it’s important to pick sides that enhance its spicy and creamy profile. These classic side dishes are guaranteed to complement the dish while adding texture and variety:
Rice
- Jasmine rice: The fluffy, slightly fragrant jasmine rice is a perfect neutral base to absorb the bold flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp. The mild, subtly sweet flavor of the rice helps to temper the heat of the sauce and brings balance to the meal.
- Coconut rice: For a more tropical twist, coconut rice offers a rich, creamy alternative. The light coconut flavor goes well with the spicy sauce on the shrimp. It adds richness without making the dish too strong.
- Fried rice: For something heartier, fried rice with vegetables and eggs offers a filling, flavorful side. It combines well with the shrimp’s crispy texture and spicy kick.
Asian Slaw
- A cabbage slaw inspired by Asian flavors includes carrots and green onions. It has a tasty sesame-ginger dressing. This slaw adds a fresh and crunchy touch to your meal. The tanginess of the dressing complements the rich shrimp, helping to cut through the creaminess of the sauce. The crunch of the cabbage provides a nice contrast to the crispy shrimp.
French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
- French fries: Fries are a classic pairing with seafood dishes, and they work exceptionally well with Bang Bang Shrimp. The crispness of the fries provides a nice texture contrast, while their mild flavor allows the shrimp to shine.
- Sweet potato fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes provides a great contrast to the spice of the Bang Bang sauce. The fries’ crisp exterior and soft interior offer a deliciously indulgent combination with the shrimp.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
- A light stir-fry with fresh vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas adds a healthy balance to the richness of the shrimp. A simple stir-fry in a light soy or garlic sauce works best to avoid overpowering the shrimp. The vegetables also soak up the extra sauce from the shrimp, creating a flavorful and nutritious side.
Healthy Side Dish Options
If you’re aiming for a lighter, healthier meal, here are some side dishes that provide balance without sacrificing flavor:
Steamed Vegetables
- Broccoli: Steamed broccoli is a classic side that pairs well with the bold flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp. Its natural bitterness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the shrimp’s sauce, providing a refreshing balance.
- Snap peas and asparagus: These green vegetables, when lightly steamed or blanched, offer a crisp, fresh bite that complements the rich shrimp. Their mild flavor provides a neutral base for the shrimp’s bold flavors.
Quinoa Salad
- For a nutritious alternative to rice, consider a quinoa salad. Quinoa’s light, fluffy texture and slightly nutty flavor pair well with Bang Bang Shrimp. Adding ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a refreshing contrast. A light vinaigrette dressing helps tie the flavors together, ensuring the dish doesn’t overpower the shrimp.
Grilled Vegetables
- Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and portobello mushrooms add a smoky taste to the dish. This flavor contrasts nicely with the creamy shrimp. Grilling the vegetables adds an extra layer of flavor and texture while keeping the dish light and healthy.
Creative Variations and Meal Combinations
Looking for creative ways to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp? Here are a few ideas for turning it into a more adventurous meal:
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos and Wraps
Bang Bang Shrimp is often served in tacos or wraps, making it a great choice for a casual and enjoyable meal.
- Shrimp Tacos: Layer the shrimp in soft tortillas with shredded cabbage, thinly sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Adding fresh cilantro and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce creates a taco that is full of flavor and texture.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb alternative, use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps. Fill them with shrimp, julienned cucumber, shredded carrots, and fresh herbs like mint or cilantro. The cool, crunchy lettuce is a perfect match for the spicy shrimp, creating a lighter yet still flavorful meal.
Bowls
Create a well-rounded, flavorful meal by turning Bang Bang Shrimp into a grain bowl. You can customize these bowls and pack them with fresh ingredients.
- Rice or Grain Bowls: Start with a base of jasmine rice, quinoa, or farro. Top with crispy Bang Bang Shrimp and layer with ingredients like avocado, cucumber, edamame, shredded carrots, and pickled ginger. Finish with a drizzle of extra sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Poke-Inspired Bowls: Mix elements of a poke bowl, such as seaweed salad, sesame seeds, and edamame, with the shrimp. These bowls are light, fresh, and packed with flavor, offering a fun twist on the traditional Bang Bang Shrimp.
Best Drinks to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp
To complement the spicy and rich flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp, the right drink pairing is essential. Here are a few drink ideas to balance the dish:
Crisp White Wines
- Sauvignon Blanc: This dry, crisp white wine pairs well with seafood and spicy dishes. Its refreshing acidity helps balance the richness of the shrimp and cools the heat from the sriracha.
- Pinot Grigio: Another light white wine option, Pinot Grigio’s citrus notes and slight minerality make it an excellent complement to the shrimp’s creamy, spicy sauce.
Light Beers or Sake
- Light Beer: A crisp lager or pilsner offers a refreshing counterbalance to the spice of the shrimp. The carbonation helps cleanse the palate, while the light flavor doesn’t overwhelm the shrimp.
- Sake: Cold sake, with its smooth and slightly sweet profile, enhances the meal’s flavors while keeping the palate refreshed.
Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Options
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, either sweetened or unsweetened, pairs well with the bold flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp. For a twist, add a slice of lemon or mint leaves to brighten the drink.
- Lemonade: The citrusy tartness of lemonade provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the shrimp’s richness, helping to cool the palate after every bite.
Ideal Desserts for After Bang Bang Shrimp
End your meal on a sweet note with one of these light and refreshing dessert options that pair well with Bang Bang Shrimp:
Fruit Sorbet
- A light, palate-cleansing sorbet made from tropical fruits like mango, passion fruit, or pineapple is the perfect way to finish a spicy meal. The cool, refreshing texture and bright, sweet flavors help balance the heat from the shrimp and cleanse the palate.
Coconut Cream Pie
- For those who prefer a richer dessert, coconut cream pie offers a tropical, creamy finish. The creamy coconut filling and buttery crust balance the bold, spicy shrimp, creating a satisfying contrast in the meal.
Lemon Bars or Key Lime Pie
- Citrus-based desserts like lemon bars or key lime pie add a tart, refreshing finish to the meal. The zesty lemon or lime flavor cuts through the richness of the shrimp’s sauce, making these desserts the perfect complement.
FAQs
What is the best side to serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
The best side depends on your preferences. Jasmine rice and Asian slaw are popular choices that balance the spice of the shrimp with fresh, neutral flavors. For a heartier side, fries or grilled vegetables work well.
Can Bang Bang Shrimp be served as a main dish?
Absolutely! Bang Bang Shrimp can be the star of your meal. Pair it with rice bowls, tacos, or hearty salads to create a full meal with vibrant flavors.
How do you balance the heat of Bang Bang Shrimp with side dishes?
To balance the heat, serve cool, refreshing sides like cucumber salads, steamed vegetables, or tangy slaws. Lightly seasoned rice or grains also help tone down the spiciness.
What are some low-carb side options for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Lettuce wraps, cauliflower rice, and grilled vegetables are excellent low-carb sides that pair well with Bang Bang Shrimp.
What drink pairs best with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Crisp white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc, light beers, or citrus-based mocktails are great options. Their refreshing qualities complement the spicy, rich flavors of the shrimp.
Conclusion: Building the Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Meal
Bang Bang Shrimp is a tasty dish. You can make it even better by choosing the right sides, drinks, and desserts. You can create a balanced and tasty meal with many options. Choose from classic rice dishes, crispy fries, fresh salads, and light desserts. The possibilities are endless!
Try experimenting with different side dishes, drinks, and even desserts to discover your favorite pairings. Now that you know what to eat with Bang Bang Shrimp, you can create a balanced and tasty meal. No matter how you serve it, Bang Bang Shrimp will always be a crowd-pleaser that leaves your guests wanting more.