Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, nestled into warm tortillas, and topped with fresh slaw—every bite is crunchy, saucy, and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting Taco Tuesday or just craving something bold and fun, these tacos deliver big flavor with simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of crispy shrimp and tangy sauce creates a delightful taste experience that will impress your family and friends.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang sauce to suit your taste or add your favorite toppings for extra flair.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these tacos! They’re fun to eat and can be made with their favorite ingredients.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer or main dish; they work great for parties, gatherings, or casual meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even heating for frying the shrimp until they are perfectly crispy.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for marinating and coating helps keep the process organized and mess-free.
• Slotted spoon: This tool allows you to transfer the shrimp easily without excess oil.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining the Bang Bang sauce ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha(adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice

For the Slaw:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage(green or purple)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 6–8 small flour or corn tortillas(warmed)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
  Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar. Taste and adjust spice level as desired. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place cleaned shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk. Let soak for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated shrimp in the dry mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.

Step 5: Toss in Sauce

In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with half of the bang bang sauce. Reserve the rest for drizzling or dipping.

Step 6: Make the Slaw

In a small bowl, toss cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to slightly soften and absorb the flavors.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Add a small handful of slaw to each tortilla. Top with bang bang shrimp. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado or pickled onions.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Serving Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can elevate your meal experience. These tacos are versatile and can be customized with various toppings and sides to suit your taste. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and enhances the flavors of the shrimp.
• Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the spicy sauce beautifully.
• Pickled Onions: Offers a tangy crunch that balances the sweetness of the bang bang sauce.

Delicious Sides

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens every bite and adds a zesty kick.
• Extra Bang Bang Sauce: Serve on the side for those who love extra spice and flavor.
• Salsa Verde: This green sauce brings a herby punch that pairs well with the shrimp.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that complements the bold flavors without overpowering them.
• Sparkling Water with Lime: The fizz and citrus enhance your meal while keeping it light.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

To make your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• bold marinade time: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps tenderize and flavor them perfectly.
• bold oil temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this keeps the shrimp crispy instead of soggy.
• bold double dredging: For extra crunch, dip the shrimp in buttermilk, then coat again in the dry mix before frying.
• bold adjust spice levels: Customize the heat of your bang bang sauce by varying the amount of sriracha based on personal preference.
• bold let slaw rest: Allowing the slaw to sit for about 10 minutes after mixing helps it develop flavors and softens slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Pairing sides with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime makes a perfect base for any taco meal.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and texture; sprinkle with chili powder for an extra kick.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and herbs provides a nutritious complement.
4. Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy chips makes for a satisfying snack or side.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with spicy tacos; season simply with salt and pepper before roasting.
6. Zucchini Fries: Baked or fried zucchini fries provide a crunchy alternative to traditional fries, perfect for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe to a new level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy coating. Fry in smaller batches for extra crispiness.
• Skipping the Soak: Not marinating the shrimp in buttermilk can lead to dry shrimp. This step helps keep them tender and ensures the coating sticks better.
• Ignoring Spice Levels: Not adjusting the Bang Bang sauce to your preference can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Taste and tweak the spice as necessary before mixing.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can make your tacos less enjoyable. Warm them up before assembling for a better texture and taste.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or wilted veggies can diminish your taco’s freshness and crunch. Always use fresh slaw ingredients for vibrant flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp tacos in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the slaw and tortillas.
• They can last up to 3 months when properly sealed in freezer bags.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through, keeping them crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may soften the coating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil for about 5 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe that might help you enhance your cooking experience.

What is a Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?

A Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe features crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, served in warm tortillas with fresh slaw toppings.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?

Yes! You can replace shrimp with chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference, while keeping the sauce and slaw intact.

How do I make the sauce spicier in my Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?

To increase spiciness, simply add more sriracha or include diced jalapeños in your sauce mix.

Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?

You can use tofu or tempeh instead of shrimp for a vegetarian version, following similar preparation steps to achieve crispiness.

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only packed with flavor but also offer versatility with various ingredient substitutions. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings like avocado or pickled onions. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x

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Description

Get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Featuring crispy shrimp enveloped in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce and topped with fresh slaw, these tacos are an explosion of taste in every bite. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any casual gathering, this recipe is not just quick and easy—taking only 30 minutes to prepare—but also incredibly versatile. Customize the spice level of the sauce to suit your palate and enjoy a meal that’s both family-friendly and impressive enough for guests. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these tacos are sure to satisfy your cravings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 6–8 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar for the Bang Bang sauce; set aside.
2. Marinate shrimp in buttermilk for 10–15 minutes.
3. Mix cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl; coat shrimp evenly.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry shrimp until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side). Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels.
5. Toss fried shrimp with half of the Bang Bang sauce; reserve the rest for serving.
6. Combine cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make slaw; let sit for 5–10 minutes.
7. Assemble tacos: warm tortillas, add slaw and shrimp, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with cilantro.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 150mg