Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, nestled into warm tortillas, and topped with fresh slaw—every bite is crunchy, saucy, and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting Taco Tuesday or just craving something bold and fun, these tacos deliver big flavor with simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of crispy shrimp and zesty sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a casual dinner or serve at gatherings; they’re sure to impress friends and family alike.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado or pickled onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy shrimp and tasty sauce make these tacos appealing to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with the Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and prevents the shrimp from sticking, resulting in perfectly crispy bites.
• Mixing bowls: Multiple bowls allow for easy preparation of sauces and coatings without cross-contamination.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly for the bang bang sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Slotted spoon: This tool is essential for easy transfer of fried shrimp from the oil to the paper towels, allowing excess oil to drain off.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice

For the Slaw:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 6–8 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
  Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar. Taste and adjust spice level as desired. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place cleaned shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk. Let soak for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated shrimp in the dry mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.

Step 5: Toss in Sauce

In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with half of the bang bang sauce. Reserve the rest for drizzling or dipping.

Step 6: Make the Slaw

In a small bowl, toss cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to slightly soften and absorb flavors.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Add a small handful of slaw to each tortilla. Top with bang bang shrimp. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado or pickled onions.

Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience! To elevate your taco night, consider these fun serving suggestions that complement the bold flavors of the dish.

Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color to your tacos.
• Diced Avocado: Creamy texture balances the crispy shrimp and spicy sauce.
• Pickled Onions: A tangy crunch that enhances each bite.

Sides for Dipping

• Extra Bang Bang Sauce: Perfect for those who love extra flavor.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the dish.
• Sriracha or Hot Sauce: For those who crave more heat.

Creative Serving Styles

• Taco Bar: Set up a DIY taco station with various toppings for guests to customize their own tacos.
• Mini Tortilla Chips: Use as a base for a fun twist on nachos topped with shrimp and sauce.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

For the ultimate Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, pay attention to these helpful tips. They will ensure your tacos are perfectly crunchy, flavorful, and enjoyable.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp make a significant difference in taste and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil at the right temperature (about 350°F) to achieve crispy shrimp without excessive grease.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the sriracha level in your bang bang sauce according to your spice preference for personalized flavor.
• Let Slaw Sit: Allowing slaw to marinate enhances its flavor, making it more delicious when served.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful dish beautifully.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, lime, cilantro, and cheese—perfectly refreshing!
2. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a classic pairing.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime adds a zesty touch to your meal.
4. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad loaded with black beans, corn, peppers, and avocado brings protein and flavor.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and grilled create a smoky side that complements the tacos well.
6. Tomato Salsa: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro adds freshness and zest to every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be a fun and delicious experience, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.

• Bold Flavoring: Using too much or too little seasoning can ruin the balance of your tacos. Taste your sauces and slaw before adding them to ensure they are perfectly seasoned.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy shrimp. Cook in batches to maintain that crispy texture.
• Skipping the Soak: Not marinating the shrimp in buttermilk can lead to less tender shrimp. Letting them soak for 10-15 minutes helps the coating adhere better and improves tenderness.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old veggies for your slaw can affect the taste and crunchiness. Always use fresh produce for the best results.
• Not Adjusting Spice Levels: The spice level in the Bang Bang sauce should match your preference. Start with less sriracha and add more if you like it spicier.
• Not Warming Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can diminish the taco experience. Warm them before assembling for a much better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp separately from other components.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm; be cautious not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and cook until warmed up, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out.

What is in the Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?

The recipe features crispy shrimp tossed in a spicy-sweet sauce, served with fresh slaw inside warm tortillas.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and slaw ahead of time. Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to serve.

How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. Start with one tablespoon and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use different proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with chicken or turkey for similar results. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

You could replace shrimp with crispy fried cauliflower or other vegetables coated similarly, creating a delicious vegetarian option!

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are sure to impress friends and family alike with their bold flavors and delightful textures. They’re versatile enough to customize based on personal preferences—add extra toppings like avocado or pickled onions for an extra flavor boost! Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try today!