As I stood in my kitchen, I couldn’t shake the memory of that delightful summer evening, the warm air filled with laughter and the tantalizing scent of something special cooking away. That’s when I knew I had to recreate a dish that would capture that spirit—Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. These, my friends, are not just your average tacos; they offer a crispy, saucy twist that makes them both satisfying and unforgettable. With each bite, you’ll experience the comforting crunch of perfectly fried shrimp tucked inside warm tortillas and topped with a zesty sauce. Not only are these tacos easy to whip up but they also serve as a showstopper for any gathering! So why settle for boring when you can elevate your taco nights? Are you ready to take your taste buds on this delicious adventure?
Why Will You Crave These Tacos?
Crispy Texture: Each shrimp is coated perfectly in cornstarch, resulting in a delectable crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft tortillas.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet chili and sriracha gives the tacos a stunning kick, making every bite an adventure.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these tacos in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these tacos will impress anyone at your table. Pair them with a refreshing salad or consider trying a Savory Shrimp Crab dish for a delightful meal experience.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment; swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, or add fresh avocado slices for extra creaminess!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp (1 lb) – Peel and devein for easy preparation and tender texture.
• Buttermilk (1/2 cup) – Adds moisture and tang; regular milk with vinegar can work as a substitute.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Essential to bring out the shrimp’s flavor.
• Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Freshly ground enhances aroma and adds depth.
• Onion Powder (1/4 tsp) – Optional but recommended for a savory baseline flavor.
• Garlic Powder (1/4 tsp) – Adds a savory note; fresh minced garlic is a good alternative.
• Corn Starch (3/4 cup) – Key to getting that crispy coating—don’t substitute!
For Frying
• Peanut Oil or Canola Oil (for frying) – High smoke point makes it perfect for frying; vegetable oil can be used too.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – Creamy base for the zesty sauce; Greek yogurt makes a healthier swap.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (3 Tbsp) – Essential for the unique flavor; no substitute for this key ingredient!
• Sriracha Hot Sauce (3 tsp, or to taste) – Adjust to your spice preference for an added kick.
For the Tacos
• Small White Corn Tortillas (8 to 12) – Warm them up for the perfect taco base; feel free to choose flour tortillas instead.
• Cabbage (3 cups, thinly sliced) – Adds crunch and a fresh element; any leafy green works as a substitute.
• Medium Tomato (1, diced) – Use fresh or cherry tomatoes for juiciness and flavor.
• Cilantro (1/4 cup, coarsely chopped) – A bright garnish that enhances taste; green onions can be switched in if desired.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce, and 3 teaspoons sriracha. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and well blended. This creamy, zesty sauce will be the perfect finishing touch for your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Set it aside, allowing the flavors to meld together while you focus on the shrimp.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup buttermilk, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes as you heat the oil for frying, giving the shrimp time to absorb the delicious flavor.
Step 3: Bread the Shrimp
Once the shrimp have marinated, remove each piece one at a time, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge the shrimp thoroughly in ¾ cup corn starch, ensuring a nice, even coating. Place the breaded shrimp on a platter and make sure they don’t touch, which ensures they remain crispy when fried.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
In a deep pot or Dutch oven, heat about 1.5 inches of peanut or canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Carefully add breaded shrimp in batches and fry for 2.5 to 3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp, allowing excess oil to drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Coat Shrimp with Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, toss the hot cooked shrimp with half of the prepared sauce until they are evenly coated. Allow the shrimp to sit for about 10 minutes; this helps the coating set, making your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos extra special.
Step 6: Assemble Tacos
Begin by lightly toasting 8 to 12 small corn tortillas over medium heat until warm and pliable. Layer each tortilla with fresh shredded cabbage, diced medium tomato, and the crispy shrimp. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top and finish with a sprinkle of coarsely chopped cilantro, adding a burst of freshness to your delightful tacos.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp and sauce separate to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, store the cooked shrimp without the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheating from frozen is best done in the oven for texture.
Reheating: To reheat the shrimp, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Tortilla Storage: Store tortillas in a zip-top bag in the fridge for up to a week; warm them up just before assembling to keep them soft and pliable.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
There’s nothing quite like a crispy, saucy bite of Taco goodness to inspire your taste buds and create a memorable meal experience.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This bright, zesty rice dish complements the rich flavors of the tacos, balancing each bite beautifully. A splash of lime adds freshness and brightness.
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Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp, offering a burst of tropical flavors. The crunchiness adds delightful texture to the meal.
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Pineapple Slaw: A vibrant slaw with sweet pineapple chunks and a tangy dressing enhances the fresh elements of the tacos. It adds a crunchy bite that pairs perfectly with the crispy shrimp.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole rounds out the spiciness with its smooth texture. Serve with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer before digging into the tacos!
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Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad with a hint of vinegar elevates the meal’s overall freshness. Its coolness contrasts the warm, crispy tacos delightfully.
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Cold Sodas or Margaritas: For drinks, a fizzy soda or a refreshing margarita offers a lively accompaniment. The sweetness contrasts with the spicy bang bang sauce, creating a balance of flavors.
These sides will not only elevate your Taco night but also bring a touch of excitement to the table!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil at 375°F for the crispiest shrimp. Use a thermometer for accuracy and adjust the heat as needed.
- Even Coating: Ensure you let excess buttermilk drip from the shrimp before dredging in cornstarch; this will help achieve that perfect, crispy coating on your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
- Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pot when frying shrimp, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp instead of a delightful crunch.
- Sauce Variation: If you prefer a less spicy flavor, start with less sriracha in the sauce and gradually add more to taste, making it customizable for everyone’s palate.
- Garnish Wisely: For added freshness, consider topping your tacos with avocado slices or a squeeze of lime, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations
Feel free to make these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos your own with these easy and exciting modifications!
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Chicken or Tofu: Substitute shrimp with diced chicken or cubed tofu for a different protein twist that everyone will love. Each version offers a new texture while keeping that delightful flavor.
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Salad Bowl: Transform the taco into a refreshing salad by serving the crispy shrimp mixture over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with sauce for a zesty, lighter fare!
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Heat Level: For those who crave heat, enhance your tacos with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes. This fiery addition will kick your meal up a notch!
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Creamy Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a rich and creamy element that beautifully complements the dish. Each bite brings out a lovely balance of flavors and textures.
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Spicy Variation: Mix in extra sriracha to the sauce for an elevated kick. The depth of the spice makes it unforgettable! Pair this with something cooling, like a cucumber salad.
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Tortilla Swap: Use flour tortillas instead of corn for a softer option, offering a different mouthfeel to your delectable creation. You can also try lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
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Garnish Options: Replace cilantro with fresh green onions or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a unique spin that elevates the flavor profile in new directions.
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Sauce Twist: Experiment with different sauces like buffalo sauce or a creamy chipotle for a whole new flavor experience! These variations keep meals exciting and full of surprises.
Feel free to check out additional delicious shrimp dishes, such as Savory Shrimp Crab or Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad, to keep your meal rotation fresh and satisfying!
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their crispy, flavorful goodness on busy weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp by marinating them in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just remember to keep them well-covered in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the marinated shrimp, toss them in the sauce, and assemble your tacos with the warm tortillas, cabbage, tomato, and cilantro. This prep strategy ensures your tacos remain just as delicious and fresh without the last-minute rush!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. This type of shrimp provides a tender texture and is convenient for quick preparation. If large shrimp aren’t available, medium shrimp can work too, but the cooking time may need slight adjustments when frying.
How do I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
To keep your leftover tacos fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the shrimp and sauce separate to ensure that the shrimp stays crispy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat the shrimp in the oven to restore that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the cooked shrimp from the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Yes, you can! I often freeze cooked shrimp for future meals. Place the uncoated cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container, where they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for around 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my shrimp aren’t crispy after frying?
Very good question! If your shrimp turn out soggy instead of crispy, it could be due to a few factors. Make sure you maintain the oil temperature at 375°F when frying; lower temperatures can cause the shrimp to absorb oil rather than crisp up. Additionally, ensure that you let excess buttermilk drip off the shrimp before dredging in cornstarch, as too much wetness can hinder crispiness.
Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Indeed! If you or someone you’re serving has allergies, be mindful of the ingredients—particularly shellfish (for shrimp) and potential gluten in sauces. You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or other proteins for a different dietary preference. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, using vegan mayonnaise as a base for the sauce works wonderfully!
What if I don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce?
No problem! While it’s a key ingredient for that signature sweet and spicy flavor, if you’re in a pinch, you can create a makeshift alternative by mixing equal parts of honey and hot sauce (like sriracha). It won’t be exactly the same, but it will provide a similar sweetness and heat balance for your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for a Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Remove shrimp from marinade, dredge in corn starch, and place on a platter.
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 375°F. Fry shrimp in batches for 2.5 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Toss hot cooked shrimp with half of the sauce. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
- Warm tortillas. Layer each with cabbage, tomato, crispy shrimp, and drizzle with remaining sauce. Garnish with cilantro.
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