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

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the fun of taco night to a whole new level, then you must try Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! These tacos are not just about great flavors; they create a delightful experience that everyone in the family will love. With crispy shrimp coated in a spicy bang bang sauce and topped with fresh ingredients, they are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

What makes these tacos special is their balance of textures and tastes. The crunch of the fried shrimp pairs beautifully with the softness of the tortillas and the freshness of avocado and cabbage. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up! Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love crispy shrimp, and the customizable toppings mean everyone can make their own!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and sauces creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the sauce and fry the shrimp in advance for a speedy meal later on.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients. This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

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 things about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is how flexible they are! You can easily tweak them to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different twist.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and tortillas to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Add more veggies: Include sliced bell peppers or corn for added crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, toss in some jalapeños or extra sriracha into your bang bang sauce.

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

Step 1: Soak the Shrimp

In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step is crucial because it tenderizes the shrimp and infuses them with flavor. Plus, it ensures a juicy texture when fried!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix together all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will give our shrimp a deliciously crispy coating when fried.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in your seasoned flour mixture until well coated. Don’t forget to shake off any extra flour; we want them crispy without being overly thick.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Dip each floured shrimp back into buttermilk before coating them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so that they stick well. The panko gives an extra crunch that’s simply irresistible!

Step 5: Frying Time!

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (but not smoking), fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through—about 2-3 minutes per side should do it! Drain them on paper towels afterward to remove excess oil.

Step 6: Mix Up Your Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha; adjust based on how much heat you prefer. This creamy bang bang sauce will tie everything together beautifully!

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

To bring everything together, place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Top it off with those crispy fried shrimp and drizzle generously with your bang bang sauce. Add slices of avocado for creaminess!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your delicious tacos with lime wedges on the side for that zesty kick when squeezed over them. Enjoy every crunchy bite of these tasty tacos—you deserve it!

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

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be incredibly satisfying, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality right at home!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will not only taste better but also provide a firmer texture. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild ocean scent.

• Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an even crunchier coating, consider double-dipping the shrimp in the buttermilk and panko breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker crust that holds up beautifully when fried.

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping an eye on the oil temperature is crucial. If it’s too hot, the shrimp will burn; if it’s too cold, they’ll turn out greasy. Aim for 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.

• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of your bang bang sauce to fit your taste. Adding a bit of lime juice can also brighten the flavors!

• Warm Your Tortillas: Warm tortillas add flexibility and enhance flavor. You can do this by briefly heating them in a skillet or wrapping them in foil and placing them in the oven.

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

Serving these delicious tacos can be just as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your family or guests while enjoying every bite.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Pickled Red Onions: These add a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and rich avocado.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, adding fresh jalapeños gives an extra kick to each taco.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad combines sweet corn, creamy dressing, lime juice, and spices for a perfect pairing with your tacos.

• Black Bean Salsa: A zesty black bean salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provides a hearty side that balances well with the crispy tacos.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime juice makes for a great base to soak up any extra sauce from your tacos.

• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served alongside crunchy tortilla chips is always a hit and enhances the overall meal experience.

Now you’re ready to create not just a meal but an entire taco night experience! Enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare elements of this recipe in advance, making it easy to whip up a quick and satisfying meal on busy nights.

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 in the fridge for freshness.
• Wrap tortillas in foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

• You can freeze cooked shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• The bang bang sauce can also be frozen; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.

Reheating

• For the best results, reheat shrimp in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again, about 10 minutes.
• If using a microwave, reheat shrimp on low power to avoid drying them out, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spice level of these tacos can be adjusted based on your preference. The sriracha in the bang bang sauce is the main source of heat, so feel free to add less or more according to your taste!

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare components like the shrimp and sauce beforehand and store them separately. Assemble when you’re ready to enjoy these tasty tacos!

What toppings go well with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

You can enhance your tacos with various toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for extra flavor!

Are there any alternatives for the shrimp?

If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a delicious twist while keeping it equally tasty!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They truly bring together wonderful flavors and textures that make taco night extra special. Enjoy every crispy bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!