Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! This Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe features crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, making it the perfect dish for Taco Tuesday or any occasion when you’re craving something bold and delicious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these tacos deliver on both taste and presentation, ensuring that every bite is crunchy, saucy, and utterly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Quick prep and cook time make this a go-to meal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The creamy bang bang sauce perfectly complements the crispy shrimp for a delicious bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize your tacos with various toppings like avocado or pickled onions to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual dinners, parties, or special gatherings where you want to impress guests.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh slaw and herbs, these tacos are not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything in place will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Slotted spoon
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispiness on the shrimp.
• Mixing bowls: Use these to prepare your sauces and coatings without any mess.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for transferring fried shrimp to prevent excess oil from soaking in.
• Tongs: Handy for flipping shrimp while frying to ensure even cooking on all sides.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha(adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice

For the Slaw:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage(green or purple)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 6–8 small flour or corn tortillas(warmed)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
  Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar. Taste and adjust spice level as desired. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place cleaned shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk. Let soak for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated shrimp in the dry mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.

Step 5: Toss in Sauce

In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with half of the bang bang sauce. Reserve the rest for drizzling or dipping.

Step 6: Make the Slaw

In a small bowl, toss together shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to slightly soften and absorb flavors.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Add a small handful of slaw to each tortilla. Top with bang bang shrimp. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like diced avocado or pickled onions.

Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos—perfectly crunchy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Serving your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your taco night.

Fresh Toppings

• Cilantro: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over the tacos for extra zest.
• Avocado: Diced avocado brings creaminess that complements the spicy shrimp.
• Pickled Onions: These add a tangy crunch that pairs beautifully with the tacos.

Sides

• Chips and Salsa: Offer tortilla chips with a fresh salsa for a crunchy sidekick.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad can balance the spice of the tacos nicely.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans serve as a comforting side that adds protein.

Drinks

• Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade refreshes the palate and cools down spice.
• Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea offers a light option that pairs well with these bold flavors.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

To achieve the best results for your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Using fresh shrimp enhances flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that smells mild and has a firm texture.
• Adjust Spice Level: Tailor the heat by varying the amount of sriracha in your bang bang sauce based on your preference.
• Let Slaw Marinate: Allowing the slaw to sit for 5–10 minutes helps develop flavors and softens the veggies for better texture.
• Fry in Batches: Fry shrimp in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and stay crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Warm Tortillas Properly: Warming tortillas before serving makes them more pliable and enjoyable to eat.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to blend different sauces or add more spices to create a unique twist on the traditional bang bang sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Pairing your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with complementary sides enhances your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some delightful options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A mix of corn, lime, cheese, and spices creates a sweet and savory side.
2. Black Bean Salad: This protein-rich salad combines black beans, corn, peppers, and a zesty dressing for freshness.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole made from ripe avocados adds richness that balances well with spicy tacos.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime complements the flavors in your tacos perfectly.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables bring smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp’s crunch.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime provides brightness alongside rich tacos.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet contrast to spicy flavors in your meal.
8. Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds crunchiness and helps balance out rich ingredients in the tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Fry for just 2–3 minutes per side to keep them tender and juicy.
• Skipping the marination step: Marinating shrimp in buttermilk helps tenderize them and ensures the coating adheres. Don’t skip this crucial step.
• Using too much oil: Using too little oil can lead to uneven cooking, while too much can make them soggy. Aim for about ½ inch of oil in your skillet.
• Ignoring flavor adjustments: The Bang Bang Sauce can be adjusted to your taste. If you like it spicier, increase the sriracha; if sweeter, add more honey. Taste as you go!
• Rushing the slaw: Letting the slaw sit for a few minutes allows flavors to meld and enhances its taste. Be patient for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• You can freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the slaw and tortillas.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers; they last up to 3 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet for quick reheating while keeping some crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions about making this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I substitute different proteins in this Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken, beef, or turkey for shrimp if you prefer a different protein.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayo alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option or a vegan substitute.

How spicy is the Bang Bang Sauce?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. Start with one tablespoon and adjust according to your preference!

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The total time is about 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delicious blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With their crispy shrimp and refreshing slaw, they’re perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your toppings—avocado or pickled onions add extra flair! Try this recipe today and enjoy an explosion of flavor!