Bang Bang Sauce
Bang bang sauce has become a favorite in many North American households and restaurants with its unique blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors. While it gained significant popularity in the West through restaurants like Bonefish Grill, its roots are deeply embedded in Asian culinary traditions. The sauce draws inspiration from various Asian sauces that balance heat with sweetness, a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.
I like to make a copycat of Bonefish Grill’s bang bang shrimp at home by lightly breading shrimp, frying them until crispy, and finishing them with bang bang sauce and sliced green onions. I also love to serve bang bang sauce as a dip for these grilled bacon-wrapped shrimp, French fries, or chicken nuggets. It’s delicious on burgers, chicken wings, hotdogs, or a Nova Scotia lobster roll, and we also use it as a dip with chicken bacon ranch sliders.
The recipe is super simple; You can mix up a batch in minutes! It’s mild on the spice, so add more if you like an extra kick. My secret? A dash of honey to bring out the sweetness of the Thai chili sauce. Think of bang bang sauce as a versatile mayo alternative; it pairs well with almost anything.
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Ingredients For Bang Bang Sauce
Ingredient Notes
- Honey: Adds sweetness and balances the heat.
- Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and a rich base.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds tanginess and brightens the flavors.
- Sriracha: Adds heat and a hint of garlic.
- Sweet Thai Chili Sauce: Adds sweetness, mild heat, and a touch of spice
It’s important to note that when making substitutions in recipes, the texture and flavor may be slightly different. However, these substitutes are the best options for changing the original recipe.
Ingredients Substitutions
- Honey: Agave syrup is a good substitute, or omit it.
- Mayonnaise: Can be substituted with plain Greek yogurt but will have a different texture and flavor.
- Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a tangy replacement.
- Sriracha: Replace with your favorite hot sauce.
- Sweet Thai Chili Sauce: There really isn’t a substitution for this.
Recipe Variations
Try any of the following for a twist on this bang bang sauce recipe:
- Cilantro: Add freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Garlic: Mix in one clove of finely minced garlic to enhance the savory depth.
- Lime Juice: Squeeze in fresh lime juice.
- Sesame Oil: Drizzle a bit of sesame oil.
- Soy Sauce: Add a splash of soy sauce for umami richness.
Use the JUMP TO RECIPE button at the top of this post, or scroll to the bottom to see the PRINTABLE recipe card with ingredient measurements and complete instructions.
How To Make Bang Bang Sauce
STEP 1: Place all of the ingredients in a bowl.
STEP 2: Stir well to combine and use anywhere you like.
Expert Tips
1. I don’t recommend heating bang bang sauce as it does contain mayonnaise.
2. Replace the mayonnaise with sour cream for a slightly different (and delicious!) taste.
3. This recipe doubles and triples well.
Recipe Notes
- Use full-fat mayonnaise for the creamiest texture.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week. Stir before using if separation occurs
More Sauces & Dips
Did you make this bang bang sauce? Please rate the recipe and tell me how it went in the comments below. Also, stay in touch with me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to see more delicious food and recipes!
Printable Recipe Card
Bang Bang Sauce
Special Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons or digital kitchen scale
- Bowl
- Small rubber spatula or spoon
- Glass jar with tight fitting lid
Ingredients
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sweet Thai chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha
- ½ teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl until no streaks of mayonnaise remain. Store in a clean glass jar with a tight fitting lid.
Recipe Notes
- Use full-fat mayonnaise for the creamiest texture.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week. Stir before using if separation occurs
Nutrition
Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. If accurate data is important to you, please verify it independently.