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

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on taco night, you’ve come to the right place! Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! are a personal favorite of mine. They bring together crispy fried shrimp and a spicy, creamy sauce all wrapped in soft tortillas. It’s a dish that never fails to impress—perfect for family gatherings or even just a cozy dinner at home.

These tacos are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty tacos ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy shrimp and zesty sauce!
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match toppings or sauces based on your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare the shrimp ahead and fry them right before serving for an easy meal.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy sauce makes each bite a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is easy, thanks to simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 quite flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken, tofu, or even tempura vegetables for a different spin.
• Change the heat level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce for milder or hotter tacos.
• Add fresh toppings: Try adding mango salsa or pickled onions for extra flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tortillas if needed.

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 tenderizes the shrimp while adding flavor. You’ll be amazed at how juicy they become!

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour is what gives your shrimp that delicious crispy coating.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in your seasoned flour mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess flour—it helps create that light and crispy texture when frying!

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Dip each floured shrimp back into the buttermilk one more time, then coat them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure they stick well; this will give your shrimp an extra crunch that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Remember not to overcrowd the pan; this helps them cook evenly! Drain them on paper towels afterwards.

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference! This creamy sauce adds that signature bang bang flavor.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

To bring everything together, place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Top with fried shrimp, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and add slices of avocado.

Step 8: Serve with Lime Wedges

Don’t forget those lime wedges on the side! A little squeeze of lime over your tacos enhances all those flavors beautifully.

And there you have it—delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ready to enjoy! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; I’m sure it will quickly become one of your favorites too!

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

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a delightful adventure, and these tips will ensure that your tacos are nothing short of spectacular!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture, which enhances the overall eating experience. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild ocean scent.

• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: Soaking shrimp in buttermilk tenderizes them and adds flavor. This step is crucial for achieving that juicy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy coating.

• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to tweak the amount of sriracha in your bang bang sauce according to your heat preference. This customization ensures everyone at your table enjoys their tacos just the way they like them!

• Keep Oil Temperature Consistent: Maintaining the right oil temperature while frying is key to getting that golden-brown crunch. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil; if it’s too hot, they might burn.

• Warm Your Tortillas: Lightly warming your tortillas before assembling helps to make them more pliable and enhances their flavor. You can do this in a skillet for a few seconds on each side or wrap them in foil and place them in a warm oven.

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

Serving your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with flair can make mealtime even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to present this scrumptious dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro provides a burst of color and an aromatic freshness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Pickled Red Onions: These tangy onions add a zesty crunch that balances out the richness of the fried shrimp and sauce.
• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring a juicy sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce, topped with cheese and spices, offers a deliciously sweet and savory combination that pairs wonderfully with tacos.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime juice adds protein and fiber, making it a nutritious companion to your meal.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro provides a cooling contrast to the spicy tacos. It’s simple yet flavorful!
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice, onion, and spices creates a delicious dip that complements the spicy flavors of your tacos while adding richness.

With these tips for preparation and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components ahead of time, making it a breeze to assemble your tacos whenever you’re ready to enjoy them.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover shrimp and sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Place the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Store the bang bang sauce separately in a sealed jar or container for up to 1 week.
• Keep tortillas and toppings (like cabbage and avocado) fresh by wrapping them tightly or placing them in separate containers.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the shrimp before frying. Once breaded, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They will last about 2-3 months.
• The bang bang sauce can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat fried shrimp, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake on a lined baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• If using frozen shrimp, no need to thaw; just increase baking time by a few minutes.
• Reheat the bang bang sauce gently in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating and breading. Follow the instructions for cooking as you would with fresh shrimp.

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spiciness can be adjusted according to your preference by varying the amount of sriracha used in the sauce. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat!

Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos healthy?

These tacos can be a healthier option when baked instead of fried. Plus, with fresh toppings like cabbage and avocado, they offer nutritional benefits too!

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components separately and store them in the fridge. Assemble just before serving for maximum freshness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a try! They’re not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to fun gatherings with friends. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you made along the way. Happy cooking!