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

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious twist on taco night, let me introduce you to Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! These tacos bring together crispy shrimp, a spicy bang bang sauce, and fresh toppings—all wrapped in warm tortillas. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making them my go-to dish when I want something satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these tacos, you’ll be counting down the days until your next taco night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Crispy and Flavorful: The fried shrimp are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, enhanced by a spicy bang bang sauce that packs a punch.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves tacos! You can customize the toppings to suit different tastes—kids will love it!
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Just fry them up when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile: These shrimp tacos can be served with various sides or even transformed into a salad for lighter meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Each component works together beautifully to create a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.

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)

To Assemble

• 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 their flexibility! Here are some great variations to keep things interesting:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or cauliflower instead of shrimp for a different flavor.
• Change up the sauce: Try adding lime juice or honey to your bang bang sauce for a unique twist.
• Add extra toppings: Consider adding diced tomatoes or cilantro for added freshness.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute corn tortillas for flour tortillas and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

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 as it tenderizes the shrimp while infusing extra flavor.

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 give our shrimp that delicious crunch we all love.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove each shrimp from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Now dredge each shrimp in your seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This creates a flavorful barrier that locks in moisture during frying.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Dip each floured shrimp back into the buttermilk before coating with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they adhere well; this is what makes each bite extra crispy!

Step 5: 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; it should sizzle), fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels afterward to remove excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust this spicy-sweet mixture according to your taste preferences—more sriracha if you like it hot!

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

To put everything together, place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Top with fried shrimp, drizzle generously with bang bang sauce, and add avocado slices.

Step 8: Serve with Lime Wedges

Finally, serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime adds brightness that complements all those rich flavors perfectly!

Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They’re sure to be a hit at your table!

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 a few expert tips that can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp not only tastes better but also ensures a firmer texture, making your tacos even more delightful.

• Double-dip for extra crunch: For an ultra-crispy coating, consider double-dipping the shrimp in both the buttermilk and panko breadcrumbs. This extra layer adds texture and keeps each bite satisfying.

• Control the heat: Adjusting the amount of sriracha in your bang bang sauce allows you to tailor the spice level to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to tone it down once added!

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to soggy shrimp instead of crispy perfection.

• Warm your tortillas: Lightly warming your flour tortillas before serving enhances their pliability and flavor, making them more enjoyable to eat with your delicious fillings.

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

Serving up these scrumptious tacos is just as important as making them! With vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, you can present them beautifully for any gathering or family dinner.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors of the tacos beautifully.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who like an extra kick, fresh jalapeños provide a zesty contrast to the creamy bang bang sauce.
• Radish slices: Bright pink radish slices not only look appealing but also offer a crunchy texture that pairs well with the softness of the tortillas.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad features sweet corn, lime juice, cheese alternatives, and spices that bring a lively flavor profile to your meal.

• Black Bean Salsa: A hearty mix of black beans, tomatoes, onion, corn, and cilantro creates a protein-packed side that complements the shrimp tacos exceptionally well.

• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole made from ripe avocados with lime juice and garlic is perfect for dipping or dolloping on top of your tacos.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and fresh cilantro makes for a light yet flavorful accompaniment that balances out the richness of the fried shrimp.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your amazing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily store components separately and assemble them when you’re ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce in a separate container, also sealed tightly, for up to 5 days.
• Shredded cabbage and sliced avocado should be stored in different containers; use within 2 days for best freshness.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag.
• The sauce is not recommended for freezing, as it may change texture when thawed.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat shrimp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery; if you must, use a low power setting and short intervals.
• Fresh toppings such as cabbage and avocado should be added just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos:

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and the sauce ahead of time. Just keep everything stored separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your tacos.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

These tacos pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some light rice dishes. Consider adding some grilled corn or black beans for extra flavor!

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spice level can vary based on how much sriracha you add. Start with a tablespoon, taste, and adjust according to your preference!

Are there any substitutes for mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or vegan mayo if you’re looking for a lighter option or prefer dairy-free alternatives.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen! These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delightful twist on taco night that your family and friends will love. Enjoy the crispy shrimp paired with fresh toppings and that irresistible bang bang sauce. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations—I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!