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

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. Perfect for taco night, these tacos combine crispy fried shrimp with a spicy bang bang sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these tacos are sure to impress. Their unique blend of flavors and textures makes them stand out among typical taco recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of fried shrimp and the zesty bang bang sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick to Prepare: You can whip up these tacos in just under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers or main dishes; these tacos fit any occasion effortlessly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Topped with cabbage and avocado, they offer a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the shrimp.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the sriracha in the sauce to make it as spicy or mild as you prefer.

Tools and Preparation

To make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, having the right tools can simplify your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this tasty recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for frying the shrimp evenly until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending sauces smoothly without lumps, ensuring your bang bang sauce is well-mixed.

Ingredients

For your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, gather the following ingredients:

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 and Assembly

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

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 helps tenderize and flavor the shrimp effectively.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 4: Add Panko Breadcrumbs

Dip each floured shrimp back into the buttermilk. Then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

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

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust heat based on your preference.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

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

Step 8: Serve with Lime Wedges

Serve your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos warm with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over each taco before eating. Enjoy!

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

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not just a meal; they are an experience. When serving these crispy delights, consider adding a few special touches to elevate your taco night.

Fresh Toppings

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the tacos for a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
• Diced Tomatoes: Add fresh diced tomatoes for extra juiciness and sweetness.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion can provide a nice crunch and sharp flavor contrast.

Sauce Variations

• Extra Bang Bang Sauce: Serve additional bang bang sauce on the side for those who love extra heat and creaminess.
• Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole adds creaminess that pairs perfectly with the spicy shrimp.

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: Fresh lime wedges allow guests to add a zesty kick as they please.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can help cool down the spiciness for those who prefer milder flavors.

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

To make your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos unforgettable, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best taste and texture for your tacos. Frozen shrimp can work, but be sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
• Double-Dip for Crunch: For extra crunch, double-dip your shrimp in the buttermilk and panko breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker coating that holds up well during frying.
• Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat in your bang bang sauce by adding more or less sriracha based on your preference.
• Heat Oil Properly: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. This ensures the shrimp cook quickly and stay crispy.
• Quick Assembly: Assemble tacos just before serving to keep tortillas soft and prevent sogginess from sauces.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad features grilled corn, lime juice, cilantro, and feta cheese—perfect for complementing spicy tacos.
2. Chips and Salsa: Crisp tortilla chips served with fresh salsa offer a crunchy appetizer that everyone loves.
3. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty side that balances out the lightness of the tacos.
4. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa brings a fruity touch that contrasts beautifully with the spicy shrimp.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish is an excellent base to soak up any leftover bang bang sauce.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies add a zingy crunch that brightens up the entire meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Buttermilk Soak: Not soaking the shrimp in buttermilk can lead to less flavorful and tender shrimp. Always allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes.
• Underseasoning the Flour: Failing to properly season your flour mix will result in bland shrimp. Make sure to include spices like paprika and cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding the skillet while frying can cause the temperature to drop, leading to soggy shrimp. Fry in batches for crispy results.
• Ignoring the Sauce: Skipping or skimping on the bang bang sauce means missing out on essential flavor. Don’t hesitate to adjust spice levels according to your taste.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can make your tacos less enjoyable. Warm them up briefly before assembly for a better texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for 1-2 days in the fridge.

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

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze them for up to 1 month for best quality.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place tacos on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add tacos, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that may help you along the way.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before soaking in buttermilk.

What is the best way to customize my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

You can customize by adding toppings like jalapeños, cilantro, or different sauces based on your preference!

Are these shrimp tacos gluten-free?

You can make gluten-free versions by using gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs.

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spiciness largely depends on how much sriracha you add. Adjust according to your heat tolerance!

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them with various toppings or sauces. Whether it’s taco night or a casual dinner, these tasty tacos are sure to impress everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!