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

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the fun of taco night to life, then you’ve got to try Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! These tacos are everything you want in a meal—crispy shrimp, a kick of spice, and fresh toppings all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying, or for family gatherings where everyone can customize their own tacos just the way they like it.

What makes these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos so special is the combination of textures and flavors. The crispy shrimp paired with the creamy bang bang sauce creates a delightful experience in every bite. Plus, they’re simple enough to make that even beginner cooks can impress their friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a busy night.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves tacos! These shrimp tacos will please both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Make it your own by adding different toppings or adjusting the spice level.
• Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of seasoned flour and panko breadcrumbs gives these shrimp an amazing crunch.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using wholesome ingredients means you can feel good about what you’re serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You likely have many of them on hand already!

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 Bang Bang 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken or tofu as a base instead!
• Make it spicy: Add more sriracha or top with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Go vegetarian: Replace shrimp with crispy chickpeas for a delicious plant-based option.
• Add more crunch: Consider adding diced radishes or crispy onions on top for additional texture.

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 essential because buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp while adding flavor. It ensures that when cooked, they turn out juicy and delicious!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour adds depth to each bite of crispy shrimp.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk. Allow any excess to drip off before dredging each piece in the seasoned flour. Shake off any extra flour too! This double coating helps achieve that perfect crunch.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Dip the floured shrimp back into the buttermilk before coating them with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure they stick well. The panko creates an airy crispiness that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through—about 2-3 minutes per side. Once done, drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil; this keeps them crispy!

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Taste it and adjust if you want more heat! This sauce is what truly elevates your tacos with its creamy and spicy goodness.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

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

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over just before eating. The fresh lime juice will brighten up all those flavors!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos—a meal so tasty that you’ll be dreaming about it long after dinner is over!

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

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is an enjoyable experience, and with a few handy tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture that holds up beautifully when fried, ensuring your tacos are both crispy and delicious.
• Adjust the spice level – Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha in the sauce according to your heat preference. This allows everyone at your table to enjoy the dish comfortably.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature. This ensures each piece gets perfectly golden and crispy rather than soggy.
• Warm the tortillas – Lightly warming your tortillas before assembling the tacos makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor, making for a delightful taco experience.
• Experiment with toppings – While we suggest cabbage and avocado, consider adding diced tomatoes, cilantro, or pickled red onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

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

Presenting your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to ensure your dish looks as fabulous as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.
• Sliced jalapeños – For those who enjoy a bit more heat, fresh jalapeño slices can elevate your dish with an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad combines corn, lime, cilantro, and spices for a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the tacos.
• Black Bean Salad – A hearty mix of black beans, bell peppers, corn, and spices creates a protein-rich side that balances out the meal while adding nutritional value.
• Guacamole with Tortilla Chips – Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips is always a hit. It’s perfect for dipping while waiting for those delicious tacos!
• Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice makes for a zesty accompaniment that complements the bold flavors of the tacos.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re ready to create an unforgettable taco night! Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare components ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in no time during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce separately in a small jar or container, as it will stay fresh for about a week.
• Wrap unused tortillas tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

• Freeze the fried shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container once frozen.
• The shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date!
• Do not freeze the tortillas or the bang bang sauce, as they are best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

• To reheat the shrimp, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
• Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp soggy.
• Warm the tortillas on a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until pliable.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating in buttermilk.

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spiciness depends on your choice of sriracha. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors and adjust according to your taste!

What toppings can I add to my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Feel free to get creative! You can add diced tomatoes, cilantro, or even pickled red onions for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos without frying?

Absolutely! You can bake the coated shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through and crispy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They are not only flavorful but also bring a fun twist to taco night. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience. Happy cooking!