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 not just any ordinary tacos; they’re crispy, spicy, and oh-so-delicious. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in my home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lively gathering with friends, these tacos always steal the show.

The magic lies in the crispy shrimp, perfectly coated in a zesty bang bang sauce. Pair that with fresh toppings and soft tortillas, and you’ve got yourself a meal that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: These tacos are sure to please both kids and adults alike. They’re fun to eat and bursting with flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Just fry them up when you’re ready to serve.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for these mouthwatering 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 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! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Make it spicy: Add extra sriracha or diced jalapeños for an added kick.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with a creamy cilantro dressing or a tangy yogurt sauce!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour and use corn tortillas.

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. Don’t rush this part!

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 our shrimp that delicious crunch we crave.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove the soaked shrimp from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in your seasoned flour mixture, making sure to shake off any extra flour. This helps achieve that perfect crispy coating!

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Dip each floured shrimp back into the buttermilk before coating them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they stick well. This double-coating technique ensures your shrimp will be super crispy when fried.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (you can test by dropping in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready), fry your shrimp in batches until golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels afterward.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust according to your taste preferences—more sriracha if you like it spicy!

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

To put everything together, place some shredded cabbage on each tortilla first. Then top with those crispy fried shrimp and generously drizzle on your bang bang sauce. Add slices of avocado for creaminess.

Step 8: Serve Up!

Don’t forget to serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over everything—it adds such brightness! Enjoy every bite of these scrumptious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

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

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your taco night experience.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture, which enhances the overall dish. If frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

• Don’t skip the buttermilk soak: Soaking shrimp in buttermilk adds moisture and flavor, making the shrimp tender and juicy. This step is key to achieving that delicious bite!

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to customize the amount of cayenne pepper and sriracha in your bang bang sauce. Tailoring the heat to your family’s taste will make these tacos even more enjoyable.

• Fry in batches: Overcrowding the skillet can lead to uneven cooking and soggy shrimp. Frying in smaller batches allows for better temperature control and crispiness.

• Warm tortillas before serving: Heating your tortillas briefly on a skillet or in the microwave gives them a soft and pliable texture, making them easier to fill and eat.

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

Presentation makes a big difference when serving these beautiful tacos. Here are some ideas to help you serve up a stunning platter that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, sliced jalapeños provide heat and color.
• Radish slices: Bright pink radish slices not only add crunch but also bring a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad features sweet corn, lime juice, cotija cheese (or a dairy-free substitute), and spices—perfect for balancing the spices in your tacos.
• Black Bean Salad: A mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing provides protein and freshness, making it a hearty side.
• Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Pineapple Salsa: Sweet pineapple salsa adds a tropical twist that contrasts nicely with the spicy bang bang sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for taco night! Enjoy every crispy bite of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make components in advance to save time during busy weekdays or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp and toppings separately in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
• Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for best results.

Freezing

• You can freeze the fried shrimp for up to 1 month.
• Ensure they cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags.
• For best quality, reheat from frozen rather than thawing.

Reheating

• Reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• For crispy texture, avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
• Assemble tacos fresh with new toppings if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos:

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before using them in the recipe.

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. Start with less and add more to taste!

Are there alternatives to mayonnaise for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Absolutely! You could substitute with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter option.

What is the best way to serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Serve them immediately after assembling, garnished with fresh lime wedges, to enjoy their crispy texture and vibrant flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bring a little excitement to your taco night with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They’re not just a meal; they’re a delightful experience that everyone will love. Enjoy making this recipe, and remember to share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!