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

• Easy to Prepare: The straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed: A unique blend of spicy and sweet flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos as a main dish or serve them at parties as appetizers.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for casual dinners, game days, or festive celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your taco-making experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and crispiness of the shrimp.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for marinating the shrimp and mixing sauces without any mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth consistency in your Bang Bang Sauce.
• Slotted Spoon: Helps to drain excess oil from the fried shrimp easily.

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

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for sharing and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your taco experience.

Add Extra Crunch

• Crispy Tortilla Strips: Top your tacos with homemade or store-bought crispy tortilla strips for an additional crunch.
• Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted peanuts or cashews on top for a nutty flavor that complements the shrimp.

Flavorful Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro to brighten the dish and enhance its freshness.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, sliced jalapeños can elevate the spice level of your tacos.

Dipping Options

• Extra Bang Bang Sauce: Serve additional sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
• Creamy Avocado Dip: A smooth avocado dip pairs well and adds a rich texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

To make sure your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for a delicious and satisfying meal.

• Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for better flavor and texture.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the frying temperature to ensure shrimp cooks evenly without burning. Medium-high heat works best.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry shrimp in batches to maintain oil temperature, resulting in crispier shrimp.
• Let Slaw Marinate: Allow the slaw ingredients to sit for a few minutes before assembling to enhance flavor absorption.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like mango salsa or pickled vegetables for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your tacos can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement the flavors of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

1. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with fresh tomato salsa make a crunchy start to your meal.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is perfect for dipping and adds richness alongside the tacos.
3. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful salad features corn, lime, and spices, offering a refreshing contrast.
4. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad with black beans, corn, and bell peppers provides a hearty side.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime complements the bold flavors of the tacos perfectly.
6. Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the shrimp in buttermilk can lead to a less tender texture. Make sure to soak them for at least 10–15 minutes to enhance flavor and coating adherence.
• Incorrect Coating Ratio: Using too much or too little of the dry coating mixture can result in soggy or unevenly coated shrimp. Ensure an even layer by pressing the mixture onto the shrimp lightly.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once will lower the oil temperature, causing them to steam instead of fry. Fry in batches to maintain a crispy texture.
• Neglecting Sauce Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting the Bang Bang sauce can lead to an imbalance of flavors. Always sample your sauce and tweak it according to your spice preference.
• Forgetting Fresh Ingredients: Skipping fresh toppings like cilantro or lime can diminish the freshness of your tacos. Don’t overlook these ingredients as they add vibrant flavors.
• Improper Storage: Storing leftover tacos improperly can make them soggy. Store components separately and only assemble just before eating for optimal taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours; they should be good for up to 2 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Freeze shrimp separately from slaw and tortillas.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers; they will last up to 1 month.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake shrimp for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking often to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté shrimp over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, adding a touch of oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe that might help you during preparation.

What is the best way to make Bang Bang Sauce?

The best way is to mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl until smooth. Adjust spice levels based on your preference.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating. Pat them dry well before coating them in flour and cornstarch.

How do I customize my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

You can add ingredients like avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce based on your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different toppings!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare each component ahead of time—just store them separately. Assemble when you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos offer a delightful balance of crispy textures and bold flavors that appeal to many tastes. The recipe is versatile enough for customization, allowing you to add your favorite toppings or side dishes. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any gathering or a fun weeknight dinner!