Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Po’Boy

Savor a Delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Po’Boy at Home

Bring the taste of New Orleans to your kitchen with this scrumptious air fryer bang bang shrimp po’boy recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines the flavors of crispy shrimp, tangy bang bang sauce, and a classic French baguette for an unforgettable meal. The air fryer offers a healthier alternative to deep frying, making this po’boy an ideal choice for those seeking a lighter option.

The air fryer has revolutionized the way we prepare food, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. With its ability to cook food evenly and achieve a crispy texture without the need for excess oil, the air fryer is perfect for preparing a delicious bang bang shrimp po’boy.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp:

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup buttermilk

Ingredients for Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp Sriracha
• 1 tbsp honey

Other Ingredients:

• 2 French baguette rolls, sliced and lightly toasted
• 8 tomatoes slices
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup purple cabbage
• 1 tbsp mayo
• 1 tbsp sour cream
• 1/2 lime, juiced

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
2. In a large bowl, add shrimp. Pour buttermilk on top of the shrimp and let it sit for 10-15min.
3. In a shallow dish, combine cornstarch, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Place shrimp into the bowl with dry ingredients and coat well.
5. Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
6. While the shrimp cook, prepare the bang bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. Set aside.
7. Prepare the slaw by mixing the lettuce, cabbage, sour cream, mayo, and lime juice. Set aside.
8. When the shrimp are done cooking, gently toss the shrimp in the bang bang sauce.
9. To assemble the po’boys, spread a generous amount of slaw on the bottom half of each baguette roll. Place sliced tomatoes on the top layer. Top with the bang bang shrimp and drizzle with additional sauce if needed. Enjoy!

Tips for making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Po’Boy!

Choose the Right Shrimp:

Selecting high-quality shrimp is essential for a delicious po’boy. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, as they provide a meatier texture and better flavor. Fresh or thawed shrimp from frozen are both suitable choices, but avoid using cooked shrimp, as they will become overcooked and tough in the air fryer.

Ensure Even Coating:

To achieve the crispiest shrimp possible, ensure an even coating of the breadcrumb mixture. Press the shrimp firmly into the mixture after dipping in the beaten egg to guarantee full coverage. Shake off any excess before placing them in the air fryer basket.

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket:

When cooking the shrimp in the air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket. Overlapping or stacking the shrimp will result in uneven cooking and a less crispy texture. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and optimal crispiness.

Customize Your Bang Bang Sauce:

Personalize your bang bang sauce by adjusting the level of spiciness and sweetness. Add more Sriracha for extra heat or increase the honey for a sweeter flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Use Fresh Ingredients:

Opt for fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles to add a refreshing contrast to the crispy shrimp and flavorful bang bang sauce. Fresh ingredients will not only enhance the taste but also add a satisfying crunch to your po’boy.

Toast the Baguette:

Lightly toasting the French baguette will provide a slightly crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp and tangy sauce. Be careful not to over-toast, as an overly hard baguette can make the sandwich difficult to eat.

Experiment with Toppings:

Feel free to get creative with your po’boy toppings. Some popular additions include sliced avocado, pickled onions, jalapeños, or coleslaw. Mix and match your favorite ingredients to create a unique and personalized sandwich.