Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dish to spice up your weeknight dinners, I have just the thing for you: Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in our house, and for good reason. The crispy shrimp paired with that spicy bang bang sauce is a match made in taco heaven. Plus, they’re perfect for busy evenings or laid-back family gatherings when you want something easy yet impressive. Trust me, once you try these tacos, you’ll be coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a little prep time, you’ll have these tasty tacos on the table in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves shrimp tacos! They’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Customize Your Way: You can easily add your favorite toppings or adjust the heat level to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Crispy: The panko breadcrumbs give the shrimp that irresistible crunch we all crave.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s taco night or a backyard barbecue, these tacos are always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is simple thanks to these wholesome ingredients. Gather them all up, and let’s get cooking!

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)

For Assembly

• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like chipotle mayo or garlic aioli for some extra flavor.
• Add fresh toppings: Consider adding diced tomatoes, cilantro, or jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Make it a salad: Skip the tortillas and serve everything on a bed of greens for a lighter option.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Step 1: Soak the Shrimp

Start by soaking those lovely shrimp in buttermilk. This step is essential as it tenderizes the shrimp and infuses them with flavor. Let them hang out in the fridge for at least 30 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix together your flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will create a delicious crust on your shrimp when fried.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Remove each shrimp from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge them in your seasoned flour mixture first, then dip them back into the buttermilk before coating them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they stick well—this will give you that awesome crunch!

Step 4: Frying Time!

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot enough (you can test by dropping in a small piece of bread—it should sizzle), carefully fry your shrimp in batches until golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels afterward to soak up any extra oil.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This creamy sauce adds that signature bang bang flavor! Adjust the sriracha according to how spicy you like it—don’t be shy!

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Now comes the fun part! Take each tortilla and place some shredded cabbage on top. Add several fried shrimp, drizzle generously with your bang bang sauce, and finish off with avocado slices.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your tacos warm with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before taking a bite takes these tacos over the top! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you make them even more delicious! Here are some pro tips to ensure your tacos turn out amazing every time.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will not only enhance the flavor of your tacos but also provide a better texture. Always opt for shrimp that’s been recently caught and handled properly.

• Don’t skip the buttermilk soak: Soaking the shrimp in buttermilk not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicier bite. The acidity in buttermilk is key to achieving that delicious tenderness.

• Adjust spice levels to taste: The beauty of the bang bang sauce is its versatility. Start with less sriracha and gradually increase the heat until it meets your preference. Remember, you can always add more!

• Keep oil at the right temperature: To get that crispy golden crust on your shrimp, ensure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F). If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb excessive oil and become soggy.

• Warm your tortillas: Softened tortillas make a world of difference. Heat them briefly in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven to enhance their flavor and pliability.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Presenting your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos beautifully elevates the dining experience and makes it feel even more special. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, serve thinly sliced jalapeños on top for added spice.
• Radish slices: Their crunchy texture and peppery flavor can provide a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features corn mixed with lime juice, cotija cheese, and spices—perfect for adding some zest.
• Black Bean Salsa: A refreshing blend of black beans, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice offers protein-packed goodness that pairs wonderfully with shrimp tacos.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado blended with lime juice and seasonings makes for a perfect dip or topping for your tacos.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime creates a light side dish that complements the bold flavors of the tacos beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a flavorful taco night that will impress family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance to save time during busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce in a separate container for maximum freshness.
• Wrap tortillas in foil or place them in a resealable bag to maintain their softness.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• The sauce can also be frozen; just be sure to leave room for expansion.
• For best results, consume frozen items within 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat shrimp, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• You can also microwave the shrimp briefly, but this may affect their crispiness.
• Thaw and stir the bang bang sauce before using it again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before proceeding with the recipe. This helps ensure they fry up crispy.

What makes these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos so special?

These tacos are special because they marry the crunchy texture of fried shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce, all tucked inside soft tortillas. It’s a delightful mix that elevates taco night!

Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time! Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Are there any alternatives for panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs will work too. For gluten-free options, try using crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How do I adjust the spice level in my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

You can easily adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of sriracha in the sauce. Start with less and add more until it reaches your preferred heat level!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos inspires you to bring some fun and flavor into your kitchen! These tacos are a wonderful way to enjoy crispy seafood with zesty toppings that everyone will love. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is bound to impress. Enjoy making them and savor every delicious bite — happy cooking!