Healthy-ish Bang Bang Sauce is a deliciously creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy sauce that’s perfect for adding a flavor punch to salads, shrimp, or even wraps. If you’ve ever had the original Bang Bang/Dynamite shrimp appetizer at PF Chang’s, you’ll understand why I wanted to make a lighter version. I make it so often that I don’t think my stomach can handle the sheer richness of it on a regular basis. This sauce is a healthier twist on the classic Bang Bang sauce, traditionally made with mayonnaise and sugar, but here it features nutrient-packed raw cashews and natural flavors for a more nutritious indulgence.
Health Benefits of Healthy-ish Bang Bang Sauce
This version of Bang Bang Sauce is not only flavorful but also packed with healthier, nutrient-dense ingredients:
- Raw Cashews: Cashews are a fantastic source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and copper. When blended, they create a creamy base that rivals mayonnaise without the added saturated fats.
- Sriracha Sauce: Sriracha offers a kick of heat along with antioxidants from chili peppers, which can help boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, while also offering antioxidants from its pepper base.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is high in vitamin C and adds a zesty tang that elevates the flavor of the sauce.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances out the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
By combining these ingredients, you get a flavorful, creamy sauce that adds depth to any dish while keeping it healthy and nourishing.
How to Make Healthy-ish Bang Bang Sauce
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this simple yet flavorful sauce:
- Soak the Cashews: Start by soaking raw cashews in hot water for at least 20 minutes. This softens the nuts and helps them blend into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Prepare Ingredients: Drain the cashews and gather your other ingredients: Sriracha sauce, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and salt.
- Blend Cashews: Place the soaked cashews in a high-powered blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If needed, add a tablespoon of water to help with blending.
- Add Sauces and Lime Juice: To the cashew cream, add the Sriracha sauce, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend again until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust for seasoning. You can add more Sriracha if you prefer more heat or more lime juice for extra tang.
- Serve: Serve your Healthy-ish Bang Bang Sauce with your favorite dishes, such as shrimp, salads, or even as a dip for veggies.
Tips for Making the Best Healthy-ish Bang Bang Sauce
Here are a few tips to ensure your Healthy-ish Bang Bang Sauce comes out perfect every time:
- Cashew Soaking: Don’t skip soaking the cashews—it’s essential for achieving the smooth, creamy texture that mimics traditional mayonnaise-based sauces.
- Blending: Use a high-powered blender or food processor to ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy without any graininess from the cashews.
- Balance of Flavors: Adjust the ratio of Sriracha to sweet chili sauce to suit your taste preference. If you want more heat, add more Sriracha. For a sweeter sauce, increase the sweet chili sauce.
- Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency.
What and When to Serve Healthy-ish Bang Bang Sauce
This versatile sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a great addition to your recipe collection:
- Salads: Toss it with shrimp and a mix of fresh vegetables for a delicious and healthy Bang Bang Shrimp Salad.
- Wraps: Use it as a spread in wraps with grilled chicken or veggies.
- Dip: Serve it as a dip for fresh veggies, spring rolls, or even crispy baked sweet potato fries.
- Bowls: Drizzle it over grain bowls with rice, quinoa, or noodles, along with your choice of proteins and veggies.
Embracing a Favorite with a Healthy Twist
While our favorite Bang Bang sauce is typically made with mayonnaise and sugar, this healthier version draws inspiration from cashew-based sauces, popular in plant-based and health-conscious cooking. By swapping out mayonnaise for raw cashews, this recipe maintains the indulgent creaminess and depth of flavor, but with a lighter, more nourishing twist.
This version also cuts down on refined sugars by balancing the sweetness of chili sauce with the natural richness of cashews and the freshness of lime juice. It’s a wonderful example of how you can honor the flavors of a beloved dish while making it healthier and more nutrient-dense. The sauce not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body with healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a win-win for any meal.
