Name: Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Crispy Flavor in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Medium or Large Shrimp (Thaw completely if using frozen); 1 cup Buttermilk (Regular milk with vinegar can be substituted); ½ cup Cornstarch (Essential for crispiness); ½ cup All-Purpose Flour (Can be swapped with gluten-free flour); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1-2 cups Vegetable Oil (For frying); ½ cup Mayonnaise; ¼ cup Sweet Chili Sauce; 1-2 tbsp Sriracha (Adjust to your spice tolerance); to taste Honey (Optional); 6-8 Tortillas (Small flour or corn tortillas; corn for gluten-free); 2 cups Shredded Cabbage (For crunch); to taste Green Onions/Cilantro (For garnish); 1 each Lime Wedges (For serving)

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As I was flipping through my favorite food magazine, a drool-worthy image caught my eye: crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, glistening with a mouthwatering sauce that seemed to leap off the page. With a vibrant combination of flavors and textures, these tacos bring the excitement of a restaurant right to your kitchen. They’re deceptively easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings with friends. Not only are they a serious crowd-pleaser, but they also offer a customizable spice level that can cater to your taste buds and dietary needs, including a gluten-free option. Curious how to create this flavor-packed dish that will elevate your taco game? Let’s dive into making delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Why are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos irresistible?

Crispy Texture: Each taco features perfectly fried shrimp that provide an incredible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of tortillas.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy Bang Bang sauce, sweet chili, and Sriracha creates a vibrant flavor profile that dances on your palate.

Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules but still feels gourmet.

Customizable Ingredients: Whether you’re in the mood for chicken, tofu, or gluten-free options, these tacos can adapt to your dietary needs—just like you’d find in sensational Grilled Steak Tacos or Shrimp Sushi Stacks.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve them at your next gathering and watch as everyone dives into this flavorful dish, leaving no leftovers behind!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

Unlock the flavors of these irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with fresh, simple ingredients!

For the Shrimp

Medium or Large Shrimp – Thaw completely if using frozen; they provide a meaty texture with a crispy coating.
Buttermilk – Soaks the shrimp to ensure they stay tender; regular milk with vinegar also works as a substitute.
Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a light, crispy coating when frying.
All-Purpose Flour – The base of your coating mix; can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs.
Salt and Pepper – Use to season the shrimp; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying, helps the shrimp become golden and crunchy; make sure it’s pre-heated to 350°F.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base that holds it all together.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a delightful sweetness along with a hint of heat.
Sriracha – Provides the spicy kick; adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Honey (optional) – Balances the flavors with a hint of sweetness.

For Assembling the Tacos

Tortillas – Use 6-8 small flour or corn tortillas; opt for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Shredded Cabbage – Adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.
Green Onions/Cilantro – For garnish, these fresh herbs enhance the overall flavor.
Lime Wedges – Serve on the side for a zesty finish, perfectly complementing the tacos!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha, adjusting the amount based on your spice preference. If you like it sweeter, add a drizzle of honey to taste. Mix until the sauce is smooth and well-combined, then set it aside to allow flavors to meld together while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the medium or large shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they fry up crispy. Season with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Place the seasoned shrimp into a bowl and soak them in 1 cup of buttermilk for 10-15 minutes to make them tender and flavorful, making sure they’re fully submerged.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
In a shallow dish, mix together ½ cup cornstarch and ½ cup all-purpose flour. After the shrimp have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour-cornstarch mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated; this will give the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that delightful crispiness when fried.

Step 4: Heat Oil
In a large skillet, pour in about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the optimal frying temperature of 350°F. You can test the heat by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately, signaling that it’s ready for frying the shrimp.

Step 5: Fry Shrimp
Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them halfway through for even cooking. Once done, remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil while you continue frying the remaining shrimp.

Step 6: Toss in Sauce
While the fried shrimp are still warm, transfer them to a large bowl and drizzle over the prepared Bang Bang sauce. Gently toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated in the creamy, spicy sauce, ensuring every piece gets that wonderful flavor, which is the star of the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Step 7: Warm Tortillas
In a dry skillet over medium heat or directly over a gas flame, warm the 6-8 small flour or corn tortillas for about 20-30 seconds on each side, just until they are soft and pliable. This step enhances their flavor and makes them easier to fold, ensuring a delightful base for your delicious tacos.

Step 8: Assemble Tacos
On each warmed tortilla, layer a generous amount of shredded cabbage as the base for added crunch. Then, place the crispy Bang Bang shrimp on top, followed by a sprinkle of sliced green onions or fresh cilantro for an aromatic finish. Serve the tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for that zesty kick!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are fantastic for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can easily prepare the Bang Bang sauce and shred the cabbage up to 3 days in advance; just store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The shrimp can also be breaded ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before frying. When you’re ready to enjoy your tacos, simply heat the oil and fry the shrimp, then toss them in the sauce before assembling. This way, you can still serve a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the Bang Bang sauce separately to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to freeze shrimp, flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the shrimp at 350°F for about 10 minutes or warm in an air fryer until heated through, ensuring they stay crisp.

Assembling Tacos: Assemble the tacos fresh to keep the tortillas from becoming soggy. Store tortillas separately, with additional cabbage and garnishes in airtight containers.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Temperature Control: Maintain oil at 350°F for crispy shrimp. Too cool oil results in soggy shrimp, while too hot can burn the coating.

Dry Shrimp Properly: Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating to help the batter stick, preventing it from falling off during frying.

Custom Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce according to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more for extra heat!

Air Fryer Option: For a lighter version, consider air frying the shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, achieving a crispy texture with less oil.

Make Ahead Success: Bread shrimp in advance and store them in the fridge; just fry before serving for a quick, fresh meal!

Squeeze that Lime: Always serve with lime wedges on the side, as the acidity brightens the flavors of the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos beautifully!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

When it comes to crafting a memorable meal, pairing is the secret to elevating your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos into a feast for the senses.

Creamy Guacamole: This rich dip adds a velvety texture and balances the spiciness of the tacos, making each bite a creamy dream.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of these fries complements the spicy, creamy shrimp, providing a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Fresh Mango Salsa: Bright and zesty, mango salsa enhances your tacos with a burst of tropical flavors that perfectly harmonize with the shrimp’s heat.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro rounds out the meal, offering a refreshing base that complements the tacos beautifully.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: This light, crunchy salad brings a refreshing coolness that contrasts nicely with the warm, crispy tacos—perfect for a warm day.
Spicy Black Bean Soup: Adding this hearty soup not only gives a delightful depth of flavor but also complements the tacos’ spicy kick with its rich, earthy base.
Craft Beer or Sweet Tea: Pair with a crisp craft beer that balances the spice or a refreshing glass of sweet tea to cleanse the palate between bites.
Apple Crisp for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp, its comforting flavor providing a soothing contrast to the excitement of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations

Feel free to customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with these delightful twists that cater to different preferences and dietary needs!

Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken tenders for a tasty alternative. Simply fry until golden and cooked through.
Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, use crispy tofu instead of shrimp—cube and fry it until golden for a satisfying crunch.
Gluten-Free Twist: Substitute traditional flour tortillas with gluten-free ones to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Heat it Up: Add extra Sriracha or diced jalapeños to the Bang Bang sauce for a spicier kick that ignites your taste buds.
Fruit Fantasia: Toss in some diced mango or pineapple for a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce.
Cabbage Alternative: Try a mix of shredded Brussels sprouts or kale for added nutrition and a different crunch—perfect for health enthusiasts.
Creamy Avocado: Top your tacos with slices of ripe avocado for a creamy texture that complements the spiciness of the shrimp.
Fruity Salsa: Serve with a side of refreshing fruit salsa (like this delicious Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos) to balance the savory flavors of the tacos.

Explore these suggestions to create the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco experience that will leave your loved ones craving more!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, go for medium or large sizes as they provide a meaty texture and hold up well during frying. If you’re opting for frozen, ensure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. Look for shrimp that are firm, with a moist appearance and without any black spots, indicating freshness.

What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Very! For optimal freshness, store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the Bang Bang sauce in a separate container, where it can last for up to a week. If you’ve got any leftover tortillas or toppings, it’s best to store those separately as well, sealing them in airtight containers.

Can I freeze cooked shrimp for later use?
Of course! If you want to freeze the shrimp, start by flash freezing them: lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for the best results.

What should I do if my shrimp coating isn’t crispy?
No worries! There are a couple of things to check. Firstly, make sure your oil is hot enough at 350°F; if it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and lose their crispness. Also, ensure the shrimp are fully dried before coating – moisture can create a barrier between the shrimp and the flour mixture, leading to a soggier texture. If they still aren’t crispy, try adjusting the frying time, frying until a deep golden brown.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can easily be modified for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and tortillas with gluten-free alternatives. If you have allergies to shellfish, you can replace the shrimp with cooked chicken or crispy tofu. Always check your sauces for gluten content, especially the sweet chili sauce.