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, you’ve come to the right place! Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! are not only mouthwatering but also incredibly easy to make. The crispy shrimp paired with a creamy, spicy sauce will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these tacos will be the star of the show and leave everyone asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe special is its wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The crunch of the fried shrimp, the creaminess of the bang bang sauce, and the freshness of avocado and cabbage come together beautifully. Trust me; your loved ones will rave about these tacos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these tasty tacos—perfect for all ages!
• Customizable: You can easily tweak ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra shrimp and sauce ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable flavor experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Most of these items are pantry staples, making this recipe accessible to everyone. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Breading

• 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 this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different take.
• Make it spicy: Add extra sriracha to your bang bang sauce if you love heat!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use corn tortillas.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

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 as it helps tenderize the shrimp while infusing them with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour

In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will coat our shrimp perfectly.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. This creates that delightful crunch when fried!

Step 4: Coat with Panko Breadcrumbs

Dip the floured shrimp back into buttermilk then coat them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they stick well; this step adds an extra layer of crunchiness.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Heat 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through—about 2-3 minutes per side—then drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Make Your Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust according to your heat preference; this creamy sauce is what brings everything together!

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

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

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your tasty tacos with lime wedges on the side so everyone can squeeze some fresh juice over their creation. Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll impress everyone at your table!

• Soak the shrimp properly: Allowing the shrimp to soak in buttermilk not only enhances flavor but also helps to tenderize them, resulting in a juicier bite.

• Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko provides an extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs can’t match. This texture contrast is key for a satisfying taco experience.

• Heat the oil enough: Make sure your oil is hot before frying; this prevents the shrimp from absorbing too much oil and keeps them crispy. Aim for around 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.

• Customize the bang bang sauce: Feel free to adjust the amounts of sweet chili sauce and sriracha based on your heat preference. It’s all about making it just right for you!

• Warm the tortillas: Slightly warm your tortillas before assembling the tacos. This makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor, giving you that authentic taco experience.

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

Serving Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is all about presentation and enhancing flavors. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.
• Pickled red onions: These tangy onions bring a zing that balances out the richness of the sauce and fried shrimp.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, fresh jalapeño slices can add both spice and color to your tacos.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, lime juice, and chili powder makes for a smoky, creamy side dish that pairs beautifully with tacos.
• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is a classic accompaniment that enhances every bite of shrimp taco with its smooth texture and fresh taste.
• Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa offer a perfect appetizer or side that guests can enjoy while waiting for their main course.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing creates a colorful side dish that’s light yet filling.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy an amazing taco night featuring these irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep. You can easily prepare components ahead of time, making it simple to enjoy these delicious tacos throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover shrimp in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce in a separate container to maintain its flavor and texture, also stored in the fridge.
• Store tortillas wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh.

Freezing

• To freeze fried shrimp, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Avoid freezing the sauce or tortillas since they don’t thaw well.

Reheating

• For reheating shrimp, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• If using leftover tortillas, warm them briefly in a skillet or microwave just before serving.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone!

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your tacos.

What makes this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe special?

This recipe combines crispy fried shrimp with a spicy bang bang sauce, creating a delightful fusion of flavors that makes every bite memorable.

Can I use other seafood for my tacos?

Yes! While this recipe calls for shrimp, you can substitute it with other seafood like fish or scallops if you prefer.

Are there any substitutions for the bang bang sauce?

Certainly! If you want a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of sriracha used.

How do I ensure my shrimp are crispy?

To achieve that perfect crunch, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows each shrimp to fry evenly and stay crispy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every crunchy bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!