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

If you’re looking for a fun and tasty meal that everyone will love, then you have to try Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! These tacos are the perfect blend of crispy shrimp and spicy sauce all wrapped up in soft tortillas. They’re not just a hit on taco night; they also make for a great crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to prepare, even for those busy weeknights when you just want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of flavors and textures—crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings—will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious tacos in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves tacos, especially when they’re packed with crispy shrimp and vibrant toppings.
• Versatile ingredients: You likely already have many of these ingredients in your kitchen, making it easy to throw this meal together.
• Customizable heat: Adjust the spiciness of the bang bang sauce to suit your taste buds.
• Perfect for leftovers: These tacos are just as good reheated the next day, making them a fantastic choice for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos come together with simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a punch! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

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 Serving

• 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 or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend and use corn tortillas.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, sprinkle some jalapeños over your tacos for an extra kick!

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 and infuses them with flavor. The buttermilk also helps the coating stick better later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While your shrimp soak, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in another bowl. This seasoned flour will give your shrimp that delicious crispy texture we all crave.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture. This step is important because it creates a flavorful crust that will be perfectly crunchy once fried.

Step 4: Apply Panko Breadcrumbs

Dip each floured shrimp back into the buttermilk before coating them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they adhere well. The panko adds an irresistible crunch that takes these tacos to another level!

Step 5: Frying Time!

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (you can test this by dropping in a few breadcrumbs), fry the shrimp in batches until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels afterward to keep them crispy.

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Taste and adjust if necessary! This sauce is what makes these tacos truly special—it’s creamy with just enough heat.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

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

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything right before taking a bite; it really enhances all those flavors!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these fabulous Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your home too!

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

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be an exciting adventure in your kitchen! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve taco perfection.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp that have been thawed properly will provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid using shrimp that has been previously cooked, as it won’t yield the same delightful crunch.
• Control your heat: When frying, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread in the oil; if it bubbles and browns within 60 seconds, you’re ready to fry!
• Adjust the sauce to taste: The bang bang sauce can be tailored to your spice preference. Start with less sriracha and add more until you reach your desired level of heat. This way, everyone can enjoy their tacos without overwhelming their taste buds!
• Let them rest: After frying, allow the shrimp to rest on paper towels for a minute before assembling your tacos. This helps remove excess oil and ensures each bite is perfectly crispy.
• Warm your tortillas: For added flavor and pliability, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave before filling them. This simple step enhances their texture and makes them easier to fold without tearing.

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

Serving up these delightful tacos is just as important as making them! With a bit of creativity, you can turn a simple dish into a vibrant meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro not only brings a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile with its bright, herbal notes.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who like an extra kick, fresh jalapeño slices add both spice and crunch.
• Radish wedges: The crispness and peppery flavor of radishes provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried shrimp.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad combines sweet corn with lime, chili powder, and creamy dressing for a refreshing side that complements the flavors of the tacos beautifully.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice creates a zesty side that pairs well with the tacos’ bold flavors.
• Black Bean Salad: A hearty mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and spices adds protein and fiber while enhancing your meal’s overall nutrition.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a hit! Serve it alongside for dipping or spread it directly onto your tortillas for an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They’re sure to impress family and friends alike while bringing warmth and joy to your dining table.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only a delight to make but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare some elements ahead of time, making it easier to pull together a delicious meal on busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover shrimp to cool completely before storing.
• Place the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the tortillas and toppings (cabbage, avocado, sauce) separate in their own containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze cooked shrimp if you won’t be eating them within 2 days.
• Lay the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.

FAQs

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

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately and assemble right before serving for the best texture.

What makes Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos so special?

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are special because they combine crispy fried shrimp with a creamy and spicy sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors that everyone loves!

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 used in the bang bang sauce. Start with less and add more until it reaches your desired heat.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise for the sauce?

If you’re looking for a healthier option or want to avoid mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative!

Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These tacos are perfect for meal prep; just store each component separately to keep everything fresh until you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos as much as I do! They’re not just flavorful but also fun to assemble and share with friends or family. Whether it’s taco night or simply a craving for something delicious, these tacos will bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to try this recipe soon!