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

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful way to spice up your taco night, let me introduce you to Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! These tacos have quickly become one of my favorites because they bring together crispy shrimp and a zesty sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. You can have dinner ready in no time, and the combination of textures and flavors will make it feel like a special occasion. Plus, who doesn’t love tacos? They’re perfect for sharing and enjoying with friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy delicious tacos without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy shrimp and creamy bang bang sauce. It’s a hit for everyone!
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with wholesome toppings like avocado and cabbage, these tacos are as nutritious as they are tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create 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 Bang Bang 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

One of the best things about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is their flexibility. You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or cauliflower instead of shrimp for a different spin.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace shrimp with crispy tofu or tempeh for a delightful plant-based option.
• Change up the toppings: Add diced tomatoes, cilantro, or pickled onions for extra flavor and color.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with chipotle mayo or garlic aioli if you want to switch things up!

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 in the refrigerator. This step is crucial as it not only tenderizes the shrimp but also infuses them with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix together the flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will give your shrimp that extra crunch and flavor boost!

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Once your shrimp have soaked long enough, remove them from the buttermilk. Let any excess drip off before dredging each piece in the seasoned flour. Then dip them back into the buttermilk before coating with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure they stick well.

Step 4: 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 breadcrumb – it should sizzle), fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side). Drain them on paper towels after frying.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust this mixture according to your preferred spice level; it should be creamy with just enough kick!

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

To put everything together, take a small tortilla and add a handful of shredded cabbage first. Top it off with fried shrimp, drizzle with bang bang sauce generously, and finish with slices of avocado.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your tacos warm with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over top. The fresh lime juice complements all those rich flavors beautifully! Enjoy every bite!

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

Making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a delightful adventure, and a few tips can elevate your taco night to the next level!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will have a better texture and flavor compared to frozen. If you can get your hands on fresh seafood, it makes a world of difference in this dish.

• Keep the oil temperature steady: Ensuring that your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) prevents the shrimp from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy. Use a thermometer for accuracy if you have one!

• Customize the sauce: The bang bang sauce can be tailored to your taste! Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha for spice or add lime juice for an extra zing. This way, you can make it perfect for your palate!

• Warm tortillas before serving: Softening the tortillas by briefly warming them in a skillet or microwave enhances their flavor and makes them easier to fold. It’s all about that warm, cozy taco experience!

• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan: Frying in batches ensures that each shrimp gets enough space to cook evenly and become crispy. Crowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and lead to sogginess.

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

Serving these tacos is just as fun as making them! Presenting your dish with flair adds that special touch to your meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the spicy shrimp beautifully.
• Sliced radishes: Their crunch and slight pepperiness enhance both texture and flavor, providing an exciting contrast.
• Diced tomatoes: Adding fresh diced tomatoes brings sweetness and color, making your tacos even more visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This creamy salad with sweet corn, lime, and cotija cheese pairs wonderfully with tacos for a refreshing side option.
• Black Bean Salsa: A zesty black bean salsa packed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds protein and fiber while being bursting with flavor.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and fresh cilantro creates a bright side that complements the richness of the shrimp perfectly.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole served alongside these tacos not only tastes amazing but also adds richness to each bite.

Enjoy creating your own taco night tradition with these tasty Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Your friends and family will love every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, making taco night a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container.
• Store the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce in a separate container, where it will last for about 1 week.

Freezing

• If you need to freeze the shrimp, layer them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
• The bang bang sauce can also be frozen; just ensure it’s in a suitable container.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the shrimp in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for about 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• The bang bang sauce can be warmed gently on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have while making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes! Just ensure that you thaw them completely before soaking in buttermilk. This will help maintain their texture.

What makes these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos so special?

The combination of crispy fried shrimp and spicy bang bang sauce creates a delightful flavor explosion. They’re perfect for taco night!

How can I make these tacos spicier?

Feel free to add more sriracha to the bang bang sauce according to your heat preference. You can also sprinkle some extra cayenne on top before serving.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, consider using grilled shrimp instead of fried. You can also switch out the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They’re not only delicious but also versatile enough to impress at any gathering or simply enjoy at home. Your friends and family will love them, and who knows? They may even become your new favorite taco night treat. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!