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

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your taco night, then you have to try Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! This dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines crispy fried shrimp with a spicy, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something tasty and exciting without spending all day in the kitchen. Every bite bursts with flavor, and trust me—once you try these tacos, they’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!

What makes this recipe even better is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the spice level or load them up with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re serving them for friends or just treating yourself on a cozy evening in, these tacos bring smiles to every table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up these tacos in about 45 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crispy shrimp and fun toppings; it’s a great way to please picky eaters.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and bang bang sauce delivers a fantastic taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Gather everything you need, and let’s dive into making something delicious!

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

This recipe is very flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with other sauces like chipotle mayo or ranch dressing for a unique twist.
• Add more veggies: Load up on toppings like diced tomatoes, corn salsa, or pickled onions for extra crunch.
• Make it spicier: If you love heat, add more sriracha or throw in some sliced jalapeños.

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 while adding rich flavor. While it’s soaking, you can prep everything else!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This blend of spices gives our shrimp that delicious crispy coating that you won’t be able to resist.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture and shake off any excess. This step ensures that every inch of shrimp gets coated nicely for that perfect crunch.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Dip each floured shrimp back into the buttermilk before coating them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they stick well; this creates an extra crispy texture once fried.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

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

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust according to your heat preference! This sauce adds creaminess and kick—the heart of our tacos.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

To put it all together, place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Top with fried shrimp and drizzle generously with bang bang sauce. Add slices of avocado for creaminess—yum!

Step 8: Serve!

Serve your delicious tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lime juice over your tacos right before eating adds an amazing brightness that balances all those flavors perfectly! Enjoy every bite!

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

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your taco game even further!

• Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp to ensure a satisfying bite. They hold up better during frying and provide that perfect texture.

• Let the Oil Heat Properly: Ensure your oil reaches the right temperature before frying. This prevents the shrimp from absorbing too much oil, resulting in a crispy and golden exterior.

• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sriracha in the bang bang sauce according to your heat preference. A little experimentation can make it just right for you!

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh toppings like avocado and cabbage. They add brightness and crunch, which complement the crispy shrimp beautifully.

• Warm Your Tortillas: Lightly warm your tortillas before assembling the tacos. This makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.

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

Presenting your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an enticing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbaceous note that balances the richness of the shrimp.
• Thinly Sliced Jalapeños: For those who crave a bit more heat, these add both spice and crunch.
• Diced Tomatoes: A sprinkle of fresh tomatoes can add juiciness and vibrancy to each taco.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, this salad pairs perfectly with spicy tacos and adds a refreshing twist.
• Black Bean Salad: A hearty side full of protein that complements the flavors of the tacos while adding fiber to your meal.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and cilantro offers a zesty contrast to the crispy shrimp.
• Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Smooth guacamole paired with crunchy chips makes for a fantastic appetizer before diving into your tacos.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will not only taste amazing but also look incredible on the table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep! You can easily store leftover components and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to keep everything fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• Store the bang bang sauce separately in a small container, where it can last about a week.
• Keep tortillas wrapped in plastic wrap or in a sealed bag to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the fried shrimp, lay them flat on a baking sheet first to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Avoid freezing the tortillas, as they tend to become soggy once thawed.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat fried shrimp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
• You can warm tortillas on a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or microwave them for a few seconds until pliable.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

How do I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

To make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, soak shrimp in buttermilk, coat them with seasoned flour and panko breadcrumbs, then fry until golden. Assemble on tortillas with cabbage, avocado, and sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating them in buttermilk. This will help ensure that your tacos turn out perfectly delicious!

What toppings go well with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

In addition to avocado and shredded cabbage, you can add diced tomatoes, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime for extra flavor!

Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes assembling your tacos super quick!

Are there any alternatives to mayonnaise for the bang bang sauce?

If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using vegan mayo or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist while keeping it creamy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos as I do! With their crispy texture and flavorful sauce, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite and share this delightful dish with those you love. Happy cooking!