The aroma of sizzling shrimp wafted through my kitchen as I excitedly prepared Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, a dish that never fails to light up my dinner table. These tacos meld a crispy shrimp coating with a creamy, spicy sauce, all wrapped snugly in soft tortillas. They’re a quick delight to whip up, taking only 45 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy weeknights or gathering friends for a casual feast. Plus, they’re gluten-free, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the vibrant flavors that come together in each mouthwatering bite. Are you ready to take taco night to a whole new level? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Crave Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Irresistible Appeal: These tacos offer a culinary thrill with their contrast of crunchy shrimp and creamy sauce.
Quick and Easy: With only 45 minutes to prepare, they’re perfect for busy nights or spontaneous gatherings.
Customizable Flavors: Add your twist! Swap shrimp for crispy tofu for a delightful vegetarian option or adapt the sauce with spices to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve them at a party, and watch your guests rave! Pair with a refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad to complete the meal.
Gluten-Free Enjoyment: With gluten-free breadcrumbs and corn tortillas, everyone can join in on the fun without compromising flavor!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – Main protein; use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp; can substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides a crispy coating; perfect for frying.
For the Seasoning
- Paprika – Adds mild flavor and color.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances overall taste with a savory note.
- Onion Powder – Complements the garlic with a hint of sweetness.
- Cayenne Pepper – Introduces heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning the shrimp.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds depth of flavor.
For the Crunchy Coating
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Offers a delightful crunch; substitute with regular breadcrumbs for a different texture.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Base of the sauce, providing creaminess.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and tang; can swap with other sweet sauces.
- Sriracha – For heat; adjust based on how spicy you like it.
For Serving
- Tortillas – Use flour or corn; it’s your choice!
- Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch and freshness to each bite.
- Avocado Slices – Provides creaminess and richness.
- Lime Wedges – Squeeze on top for a zesty kick that brightens flavors.
Let this lineup of ingredients inspire your cooking adventure as you whip up these irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Step 1: Soak the Shrimp
Begin by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp into a bowl and covering them with buttermilk. Allow the shrimp to soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, which not only tenderizes the shrimp but also infuses them with flavor. You’ll know they’re ready when the buttermilk coats them well and enhances their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until fully blended, creating a fragrant, flavorful coating for your shrimp. This mixture will add an essential layer of taste to the crispy exterior of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp
Once the shrimp have soaked, take each piece and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Lightly shake off any excess flour before dipping it back into the buttermilk, ensuring an even coating. This double-dipping technique will help create a wonderfully crispy texture once fried, perfect for your tacos.
Step 4: Coat with Panko Breadcrumbs
Next, transfer the buttermilk-coated shrimp into a bowl filled with panko breadcrumbs. Press each shrimp gently into the breadcrumbs to ensure they are thoroughly coated. The panko adds an extra crunch that will make your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos irresistible and adds texture that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat. This should take about 5 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the oil is shimmering and rippling slightly. To ensure perfectly fried shrimp, use a deep-fry thermometer to check that the oil reaches between 350°F to 375°F.
Step 6: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels, allowing any excess oil to drain.
Step 7: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, you can prepare your Bang Bang sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the sriracha according to your preferred spice level, creating the perfect kick for your tacos.
Step 8: Assemble the Tacos
To assemble your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, take a tortilla and layer it with a generous amount of shredded cabbage, followed by the crispy shrimp. Drizzle the homemade Bang Bang sauce liberally over the top, then finish with a few slices of avocado for creaminess. The contrasting textures will make each bite delightful.
Step 9: Serve with Lime Wedges
Finally, plate your shrimp tacos with lime wedges on the side for added brightness. A quick squeeze of fresh lime juice right before enjoying will take the flavors to the next level. Your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are now ready to be savored and shared at your next meal!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
The vibrant flavors of these tacos sing out for some delightful companions that will elevate your dining experience.
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce and sprinkled with cheese adds a smoky, tangy contrast to the tacos.
- Fresh Gazpacho: This chilled tomato soup, packed with fresh veggies, provides a light, refreshing touch that complements the spicy shrimp.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with zesty lime and fragrant cilantro brings both a bright flavor and provides a satisfying, comforting base alongside the tacos.
- Margaritas: A cooling drink with hints of lime and tequila pairs beautifully, enhancing the spicy notes of the Bang Bang sauce. Enjoy with a salted rim!
- Pineapple Salsa: The sweetness and acidity of this salsa cut through the richness of the fried shrimp, delivering a burst of tropical freshness.
- Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado paired with crisp greens and a lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the crispy tacos.
- Chips and Guacamole: The creamy richness of guacamole alongside crunchy tortilla chips is a classic that always pleases and adds an extra layer of texture to your meal.
- Key Lime Pie: Finish off with a slice of this tart dessert that reflects the lime notes in the tacos, leaving you with a sweet, tangy finale to your dinner.
- Fruit-infused Water: A refreshing mix of water with slices of citrus or berries cleanses your palate and keeps the meal light and enjoyable.
Make Ahead Options
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making dinner time a breeze for busy cooks! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and shred the cabbage up to 3 days in advance—just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. Additionally, soak the shrimp in buttermilk up to 24 hours ahead of time for maximum tenderness and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply dredge the shrimp in the seasoned flour and panko, then fry them for about 2-3 minutes until golden. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos while saving precious time on hectic weeknights!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
• Perfectly Crispy Shrimp: Ensure oil temperature is hot enough before frying; it should shimmer. This prevents the shrimp from absorbing excess oil, keeping them crispy.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches to allow even cooking and maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to soggy tacos.
• Flavor Balance: Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce for personalized heat levels. You want a delicious balance in your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
• Substitution Success: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and corn tortillas. This way, everyone can enjoy the taco fest without worries.
• Make-Ahead Options: Prepare sauce and toppings in advance, allowing for a quick assembly during busy weeknights. Fry shrimp fresh for that perfect crisp!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their flavor and texture. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezer: Freezing the cooked shrimp is not recommended as it may alter their crispness. Instead, you can freeze the bang bang sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat shrimp on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes for crispiness, then assemble the tacos fresh.
Preparation Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and toppings in advance; store them separately in the fridge for quick assembly whenever you’re ready to enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations
Customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with these delightful twists that amplify flavor and cater to different tastes!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out shrimp for crispy tofu, seasoned and fried to perfection, creating a satisfying veggie alternative.
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Spice It Up: Try adding a dash of smoked paprika or lime zest to your Bang Bang sauce for an extra punch. A touch of lime elevates this taco experience with freshness.
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Tortilla Swap: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb option that still delivers all the delicious flavors.
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Crunchy Add-ins: Toss in some diced jalapeños or sliced radishes for an extra crunch and a boost of flavor that brings excitement to every bite.
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Creamy Avocado Variation: Blend ripe avocado into your Bang Bang sauce for an added layer of creaminess and health benefits.
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Herbaceous Twist: Garnish with fresh cilantro or chives to brighten up the overall dish, giving it a fresh herbaceous note.
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Different Sauces: Experiment with chipotle mayo or avocado cilantro sauce if you want to switch up the flavor profile. Each sauce brings its own charm.
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Sweet Heat: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup into the Bang Bang sauce to balance out the heat with a touch of sweetness.
No matter how you choose to personalize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, they’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table! If you’re itching for more seafood flavor, don’t forget to try the enticing Lemon Shrimp Avocado salad or the classic Shrimp Lobster Pot for alternative decadence!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use peeled and deveined shrimp, which will save you time and make preparation easier. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but you can also use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking!
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
I recommend storing leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, to maintain their delightful crunch, recreate that crispiness by reheating them in the oven, rather than the microwave.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
It’s best not to freeze the cooked shrimp as it can lose its wonderful texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the Bang Bang sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before using!
What if my shrimp isn’t crispy after frying?
Very! To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure that the oil is hot enough before frying. It should shimmer at about 350°F to 375°F. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can make these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and corn tortillas. This way, everyone can enjoy the fantastic flavors without worry!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Crunchy, Creamy, Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Dredge shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess, then dip them back in buttermilk.
- Coat shrimp with panko breadcrumbs, pressing to ensure they are well covered.
- Heat oil in a skillet until shimmering, around 350°F to 375°F.
- Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl to make the Bang Bang sauce.
- Assemble the tacos by layering tortillas with cabbage, crispy shrimp, and Bang Bang sauce, then add avocado slices.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for added brightness.
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