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

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your taco night, look no further than Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! These tacos are not just any ordinary meal; they bring together crispy fried shrimp coated in a zesty bang bang sauce, all wrapped up in soft tortillas. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make while still being packed with flavor. The combination of textures—from the crunchy shrimp to the creamy sauce—makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, they’re customizable, so feel free to get creative with your toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, these tacos fit perfectly into your schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and spicy flavors of the bang bang sauce.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s taco Tuesday or a casual get-together, these shrimp tacos shine on any table.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the heat level to suit your taste buds.
• Deliciously Crispy: The panko breadcrumbs give the shrimp an incredible crunch that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos use simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Gather everything before you start cooking, and let’s dive into this tasty adventure!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to mix things up based on what you have at home or personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to try!

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist!
• Add more heat: If you like it spicy, toss in some diced jalapeños or extra sriracha.
• Make it lighter: Bake the shrimp instead of frying for a healthier option that still tastes great.
• Try different toppings: Experiment with fresh mango salsa or pickled onions for added flavor.

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

Step 1: Soak the Shrimp

Start by soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it tenderizes the shrimp and infuses them with flavor. It’s like giving them a spa treatment before they hit the hot oil!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will help create that crispy coating we all crave. Just imagine how good it will smell as it cooks!

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Once the shrimp have soaked long enough, let any excess buttermilk drip off before dredging each piece in the seasoned flour. Then dip them back into buttermilk and coat with panko breadcrumbs. This double coating ensures maximum crunchiness—trust me; you won’t want to skip this!

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (you can test by dropping in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles, you’re good!), fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through—this takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels afterward to soak up excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While your shrimp are frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Adjusting the heat level here means you can make it just how you like it; sweet with a hint of spice works beautifully.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Now comes the fun part! Grab your warmed tortillas and layer shredded cabbage on each one first. Top with those crispy fried shrimp, drizzle generously with your bang bang sauce, and add slices of creamy avocado on top.

Step 7: Serve with Lime Wedges

Don’t forget those lime wedges! A little squeeze over your tacos brightens everything up and brings all those flavors together beautifully.

And there you have it—Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that are perfect for sharing (or hoarding all to yourself!). Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is all about those little details that make a big difference. Here are some handy tips to ensure your tacos are a hit every time!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp have a natural sweetness and better texture compared to frozen ones. If you can, buy shrimp from a trusted source, and remember to keep them cold until you’re ready to cook.

• Don’t skip the buttermilk: Soaking the shrimp in buttermilk not only tenderizes them but also helps the flour and breadcrumbs adhere better. This results in an extra crispy coating when fried!

• Temperature matters: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying the shrimp. A temperature of around 350°F will give you that beautiful golden color and crispy texture. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

• Customize the bang bang sauce: Feel free to adjust the sriracha level in your sauce according to your spice tolerance. Adding a little honey can also balance out the heat if you prefer a sweeter taste.

• Warm your tortillas: Gently warming your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave before assembling the tacos makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor, making every bite delightful.

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

Presenting your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos beautifully can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one! Here are some ideas on how to serve this dish so it looks as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color. Scatter some over your tacos just before serving for an appealing finish.
• Radish slices: Thinly sliced radishes bring a nice crunch and peppery flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Crumbled tortilla chips: For extra texture, sprinkle crumbled tortilla chips on top of your tacos. They add a delightful crunch and fun presentation.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad features grilled corn, lime juice, and cotija cheese, making it a perfect, vibrant side with flavors that match well with the spicy shrimp.
• Black Bean Salsa: Combine black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, red onion, and lime juice for a protein-packed salsa that balances the richness of the tacos.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lime zest and fresh cilantro provides a zesty accompaniment that complements the flavors in your tacos.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole made from ripe avocados adds richness to your meal. Serve it alongside for dipping or as an additional topping on your tacos.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well-equipped to create an unforgettable taco night experience! Enjoy every bite of these delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can easily prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover shrimp and toppings in separate airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispiness.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the cooked shrimp before adding them to the tacos.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and remove as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes, so they stay crispy.

FAQs

Have questions about making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work great for this recipe. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos spicier?

To amp up the heat in your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce or add sliced jalapeños on top for an extra kick!

What toppings go well with my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Besides avocado and cabbage, feel free to add fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or pickled onions for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it to dress your tacos!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a try because they truly are delightful! The combination of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings makes every bite special. Enjoy making this recipe with loved ones or savor it all by yourself—either way, it’s sure to be a hit! Don’t forget to share your delicious creation; I’d love to hear how it turns out!