A bustling street market in a seaside town, filled with the salty breeze and tantalizing aromas, sparked the inspiration for these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. You’ll love how they blend crispy, succulent shrimp with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that dances on your taste buds. Not only are these tacos a dynamite quick meal, ideal for busy weeknights, but they also offer a customizable twist to please everyone at the table. From zesty toppings to varying spice levels, you can make it truly yours. Ready to dive into a vibrant culinary adventure? Let’s whip up these mouthwatering tacos together!
Why Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: These tacos are a culinary delight, offering a perfect balance of crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce.
Customizable Options: Feel free to adjust spice levels and toppings, making them ideal for both mild and adventurous eaters!
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to serve a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos are sure to wow your guests.
Vibrant Toppings: Add fresh herbs, crunchy cabbage, or zesty lime to elevate your serving and create a feast for the eyes!
Don’t miss out on pairing these with a refreshing cucumber avocado salsa for a delightful contrast to the rich flavors!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
• Main components for a delightful dish
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – Fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re peeled and deveined for a perfect bite!
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp; a splash of vinegar in milk makes a great substitute.
- Flour – Essential for a crispy coating; opt for all-purpose or a gluten-free alternative!
- Cornstarch – Adds extra crunch to the breading; feel free to leave it out if you don't have any.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Chili Garlic Sauce – Brings the heat and flavor; use Sriracha in its place for a different kick!
- Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base; Greek yogurt can lighten it up if desired.
- Sriracha – Adjust to taste for desired spice level—make it as fiery or mellow as you prefer!
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – Use an oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, for frying perfection.
For Assembling Tacos
- Tortillas – Traditional flour tortillas serve as the hearty base; consider lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
Garnish Ingredients
- Cabbage – Adds crunch and color; use purple or green for variation!
- Radishes – Provide an amazing crisp texture to balance the creamy sauce.
- Jalapeños – For an extra kick, perfect for spice lovers.
- Green Onions – Offer freshness and vibrancy.
- Cilantro – A must for herb lovers, enhancing flavor and aesthetic!
As you prepare these delectable Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, remember to experiment with toppings that excite your palate and impress your guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sriracha until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sriracha based on your desired spice level. Once well combined, cover and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the shrimp. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Step 2: Soak Shrimp
In a medium bowl, submerge 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp in 1 cup of buttermilk. Let the shrimp soak for 20 minutes, allowing the buttermilk to tenderize them and ensure that the coating adheres well. While the shrimp soak, prepare your cooking space by laying out a cooling rack and a plate lined with paper towels for draining after frying.
Step 3: Coat Shrimp
In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the shrimp have soaked, drain them and toss in the flour mixture in batches, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Place the coated shrimp on the cooling rack, allowing them to sit for a few minutes to set the crust before frying.
Step 4: Fry Shrimp
Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the shrimp in small batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for 4 to 4.5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and drain them on the paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Assemble Tacos
In a large bowl, gently toss the fried shrimp with the prepared Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Warm your tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, just until soft. To assemble your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, place a generous amount of shrimp in each tortilla and top with crunchy cabbage, sliced radishes, jalapeños, and fresh herbs for vibrant flavors and textures.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
The vibrant flavors and crispy textures of these tacos create a tantalizing feast that you won't want to miss!
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: This zesty side combines sweet corn, lime, and cotija cheese, adding a refreshing contrast to the spicy tacos.
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Cucumber Avocado Salsa: The coolness of cucumber and creamy avocado perfectly balances the heat, providing a refreshing bite with each taco.
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Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy, mango salsa brings a fruity twist that brightens up the meal and complements the spices beautifully.
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Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole add a delightful crunch and richness, perfect for snacking alongside your tacos.
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Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita: This cocktail pairs sweetness with a hint of spice, enhancing the tropical feel, and making every bite of taco sing!
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Lime Cilantro Rice: Fluffy rice enhanced with lime and fresh cilantro rounds out the meal while keeping flavors fresh and vibrant.
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Spicy Black Beans: Adding a hearty element, these seasoned black beans offer fiber and flavor, making your dinner not just delicious but nutritious.
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Grilled Veggie Skewers: Colorful veggies grilled to charred perfection cater to lighter palates while adding a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tacos.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying; this creates that perfect crispy texture and avoids greasy shrimp.
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Drain Well: After soaking shrimp in buttermilk, drain and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to a soggy coating.
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Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan. Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain even cooking and crispiness in every bite.
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Customize Spice: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to achieve your desired heat level, perfect for those who enjoy different spice preferences.
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Fresh Toppings: Don't skimp on the garnishes! Fresh vegetables like cabbage and jalapeños add a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the shrimp.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their deliciousness even on the busiest nights! You can prep the bang bang sauce up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal flavor. Additionally, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you're ready to fry, simply coat the shrimp and fry them freshly for that crispy texture. To maintain quality, make sure to store the fried shrimp separately from the sauce and toppings. Reheat the shrimp in the oven to ensure they stay crispy before assembling your tacos, bringing restaurant-quality delight to your dinner table with minimal effort!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos and make them uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for crispy tacos that everyone can enjoy.
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Baked Version: Instead of frying, coat shrimp and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a healthier, yet still flavorful, alternative.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to the bang bang sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on the finished tacos for an extra heat boost!
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Herbaceous Twist: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into your sauce to brighten the flavor profile.
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Creamy Avocado: Spread a layer of mashed avocado inside the tortillas before adding shrimp for a creamy and delightful contrast.
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Taco Bowl: Opt for a low-carb option by serving the bang bang shrimp over a bed of greens instead of tortillas for a fresh taco bowl.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled tacos to enhance the flavors and add a refreshing zing in every bite.
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Sweet Sensation: Drizzle some honey or agave syrup over the shrimp for an unexpected sweet twist that perfectly complements the spicy sauce.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp and bang bang sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the fried shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container; enjoy within 1 month.
Reheating: For best results, reheat shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to preserve their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the bang bang sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week, ready to drizzle on your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos when you're set to enjoy!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely, you can use either fresh or frozen shrimp! Just make sure they are peeled and deveined. When selecting fresh shrimp, look for a firm texture and a mild ocean scent. For frozen shrimp, choose ones that are flash-frozen right after harvest to preserve quality.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Very good question! Store any leftover shrimp and bang bang sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 2 days. If you've assembled the tacos, it's best to eat them the same day to maintain that crunchy shrimp and fresh toppings.
Can I freeze the fried shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze the fried shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are firm. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, they can be enjoyed within 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 10 minutes to retain their crispiness.
What if my shrimp turns out soggy after frying?
No worries! If your shrimp turn out soggy, there are a few troubleshooting steps. Make sure to dry the shrimp well after soaking them in buttermilk; excess moisture can definitely lead to a soggier texture. Also, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) before cooking, as frying at a too-low temperature can make shrimp greasy. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the frying pan to ensure even cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Yes! If you or someone dining with you has allergies, it's important to consider the ingredients in both the shrimp and the bang bang sauce. The sauce contains mayonnaise and chili garlic sauce, which may not be suitable for those with egg or garlic allergies. For gluten-free versions, substitute the flour with gluten-free alternatives. If you are serving these to pets, keep in mind that some ingredients like garlic and certain spices can be harmful to them, so it’s best to stick with plain shrimp!
Savory Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos You’ll Crave for Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, chili garlic sauce, and sriracha in a medium bowl until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Soak the shrimp in a bowl of buttermilk for 20 minutes to enhance tenderness and adhesion of breading.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Drain shrimp and toss in the mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp in small batches for 4 to 4.5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble the tacos by tossing fried shrimp in the bang bang sauce and then filling warmed tortillas, topping with fresh garnishes.
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