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

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious dinner idea, let me introduce you to Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! These tacos are a hit in my house, and I can’t wait for you to experience the crispy shrimp paired with that irresistible spicy bang bang sauce. They’re perfect for taco night, but honestly, they shine at family gatherings and casual get-togethers too. Once you take a bite, you’ll see why this recipe has become a favorite around here!

The beauty of these tacos lies in their simplicity and flavor. You get that satisfying crunch from the shrimp, balanced with the freshness of toppings like cabbage and avocado. Plus, it’s an easy recipe to whip up on busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Delight: The combination of fried shrimp and panko breadcrumbs gives these tacos an amazing crunch that everyone loves.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings to make each taco unique—go wild with salsa, cilantro, or even some cheese if that’s your thing!
• Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the fun flavors and textures of these tacos, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Perfectly Spicy: The bang bang sauce adds just the right kick without being overwhelming. Adjust it to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You probably have many of these items already in your kitchen. This list makes it easy to prepare these delicious 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 Assembling

• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or what sounds good to you.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different take.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and tortillas to keep this dish accessible for everyone.
• Add more veggies: Include diced tomatoes or corn for extra flavor and color in your tacos.
• Go spicy or mild: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce based on your heat preference.

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 key as it tenderizes the shrimp while adding flavor. It’s like giving them a little spa treatment before they hit the hot oil!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, combine flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these dry ingredients creates a flavorful coating that sticks perfectly to the shrimp.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Once the shrimp are done soaking, let any excess buttermilk drip off before dredging them in your seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this will ensure that lovely crunch when frying.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

After dredging in flour again briefly, dip those coated shrimp into panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they adhere well—it’s this layer that gives them that satisfying crispiness when cooked.

Step 5: Fry Away!

Heat about an inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Fry the shrimp in batches until they’re golden brown and cooked through—about 2-3 minutes per side is perfect! Don’t forget to drain them on paper towels afterward; we want them crispy, not greasy.

Step 6: Make Your Sauce

While those tasty bites are frying away, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. This bang bang sauce is where all that deliciousness comes from! Adjust it according to how spicy you like things.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

Grab your warm tortillas and layer each one with shredded cabbage first. Next goes on those crispy shrimp followed by a generous drizzle of bang bang sauce—don’t be shy! Finally, top with avocado slices for creaminess.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve these delightful tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over everything. The burst of citrus adds brightness that elevates every bite!

And there you have it—your very own Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! I hope this becomes as beloved in your home as it is in mine. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a fun and rewarding experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate this dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Shrimp – Opting for fresh shrimp instead of frozen can enhance the flavor and texture, making your tacos even more delicious.
• Perfect Your Coating – Ensure each shrimp is thoroughly coated with flour before dipping in buttermilk and panko. This creates a crispier texture when fried, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Maintain Oil Temperature – Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, the shrimp will burn; if it’s too cool, they’ll turn soggy. Aim for around 350°F (175°C) for the perfect fry.
• Customize Your Sauce – Feel free to tweak the bang bang sauce by adding more sriracha or even a splash of lime juice for added tanginess. Personalizing the sauce can make your tacos uniquely yours!
• Warm Your Tortillas – Gently warming your tortillas in a skillet or microwave before assembling keeps them pliable and enhances their flavor.

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

Presenting your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos beautifully can make all the difference at the dinner table. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.
• Diced Tomatoes – Adding diced tomatoes not only enhances visual appeal but also introduces juicy sweetness that balances the flavors.
• Sliced Jalapeños – For those who love extra heat, sliced jalapeños can be added as a zesty garnish right on top of your tacos.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad combines corn, lime juice, cotija cheese (or a dairy-free alternative), and spices for a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with tacos.
• Black Bean Salsa – A hearty black bean salsa made with diced peppers, onions, and herbs adds protein and flavor to your meal while being incredibly easy to whip up!
• Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime juice serves as a wonderful base for any leftover toppings and provides a filling accompaniment.
• Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser and makes for an easy appetizer before diving into those tasty tacos.

Now that you’re equipped with these pro tips and serving suggestions, get ready to wow your family or guests with these irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Enjoy every crunchy, spicy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare various components in advance, making it easy to enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce separate in a sealed container for optimal freshness.
• Tacos assembled with toppings should be eaten right away, but you can store components separately.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the shrimp, do so before frying. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• The bang bang sauce can also be frozen in small portions for future use.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat fried shrimp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
• If reheating the sauce, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the shrimp and store them before frying. The bang bang sauce can be made ahead as well.

What makes these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos so special?

The combination of crispy fried shrimp coated in a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce with fresh toppings truly elevates these tacos to a new level of deliciousness!

Are there any substitutions for the shrimp?

Yes! You can substitute shrimp with chicken or plant-based alternatives if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy are these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you choose to add to the sauce. Feel free to adjust it based on your taste preference!

Can I serve these tacos at a party?

Definitely! These tacos are a fantastic party food option. They’re fun to assemble and will impress your guests!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos as much as I do! They bring together crispy textures and bold flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s taco night or just a delightful dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and have fun with it! Happy cooking!