FOR THE BANG BANG SAUCE

1. Step 1: Whisk together all of the ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Step 2: Cover and refrigerate until ready to use, or serve right away.

FOR THE BANG BANG SHRIMP

1. Step 1: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a wide pot to 375 degrees F. Do not let the oil boil. If you do not have a thermometer, test the oil with a tiny drop of flour. It will immediately sizzle up.
2. Step 2: Next, add the shrimp and buttermilk to a large bowl. Toss to coat the shrimp. Soak for a few minutes while the oil is heating.
3. Step 3: Whisk together then cornstarch, cayenne (or paprika) and a bit of salt and pepper into a separate large bowl.
4. Step 4: Drain the shrimp and shake off any excess buttermilk. Coat the shrimp in the seasoned cornstarch mixture, then fry them for 1 minute per side, or until they are cooked through and start to lightly brown.
5. Step 5: Remove and drain the shrimp on paper towels.
6. Step 6: Toss the shrimp with the bang bang sauce then garnish with fresh parsley and spicy chili flakes.
7. Step 7: For Grilled Shrimp. Skip the frying and grill the shrimp instead. Heat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Season the shrimp with a bit of salt and pepper (or use your favorite seasoning blend), then grill the shrimp 1-2 minutes per side, until cooked through. Then, toss them with the bang bang sauce.
8. Step 8: For Sauteed Shrimp. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a saute pan. Season the shrimp with a bit of salt and pepper (or use your favorite seasoning blend), then saute the shrimp 1-2 minutes per side, until cooked through. Then, toss them with the bang bang sauce.