When the craving for a fun, flavorful meal strikes, nothing quite beats a platter of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Just picture it: golden, crispy shrimp nestled in warm tortillas, topped with crisp cabbage and drizzled in a creamy, zesty Bang Bang sauce. This is the kind of dish that brings joy to the dinner table, transforming an ordinary weeknight into a celebration of flavors.
Not only is this recipe a treat for the taste buds, but it can also be whipped up in about 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy evenings. Whether you’re battling fast-food fatigue or simply looking for something exciting to cook at home, these tacos deliver on all fronts—delicious, quick, and oh-so-satisfying. Join me in crafting this quick seafood delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The vibrant mix of crispy shrimp, crunchy cabbage, and zesty Bang Bang sauce creates an irresistible flavor medley that will transport your taste buds straight to a coastal getaway.
Time-Saving Delight: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you still crave something fun and flavorful.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer shrimp, chicken, or tofu, this recipe accommodates various proteins, making it adaptable for all palates.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whip these up for family dinners or casual gatherings, and watch them disappear in no time—every bite is a delight!
Quick Clean-Up: With minimal prep and straightforward cooking, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
• Get ready to make something delicious with easy-to-find ingredients!
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture in your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes shrimp and adds flavor; substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice if unavailable.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – This coating gives the shrimp a delightful crispiness; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Cornstarch – Enhances crunch; an additional amount of flour can be used if cornstarch is unavailable.
- Garlic Powder – Adds flavor depth; feel free to substitute with fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
- Paprika – Provides color and mild flavor; smoked paprika can offer additional smokiness.
- Cayenne Pepper – Optional heat; adjust according to taste or omit for a milder flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; personalize to your taste preference.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying shrimp, with peanut or canola oil serving as good alternatives.
For the Tacos
- Tortillas – Choose between corn or flour for your taco base, depending on your preference.
- Shredded Cabbage – Provides crunch and freshness; feel free to swap with lettuce or a slaw mix.
- Fresh Cilantro – An optional garnish; you can omit this if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
- Lime – Brightens flavor and is perfect for garnishing.
Enjoy creating these delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that are sure to please everyone at the table!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Stir well, and set aside to let the flavors meld together.
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Marinate the Shrimp: Place the large, fresh shrimp in a bowl and soak them in buttermilk for 10-15 minutes. This step ensures the shrimp are tender and flavorful!
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Prepare Coating: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This mixture gives the shrimp their delightful crispy exterior.
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Heat Oil: In a large pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Heat it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper frying.
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Coat Shrimp: Take each shrimp out of the buttermilk and dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, making sure they’re well coated for an extra crunch.
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Fry Shrimp: Working in batches, carefully drop the coated shrimp into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Warm Tortillas: While the shrimp are frying, heat the tortillas in a separate pan until they’re warmed through and pliable.
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Assemble Tacos: On each tortilla, layer a generous amount of shredded cabbage, add the fried shrimp, and drizzle with the prepared Bang Bang sauce for that zesty kick.
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Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately with lime slices on the side for that extra zing!
Optional: Serve with a side of Mexican street corn for a delightful combo!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Oil Temperature: Always check the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) before frying to ensure each shrimp turns out crispy rather than soggy.
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Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan! Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature for the perfect crunch in your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
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Savvy Substitutes: If you’re out of buttermilk, don’t hesitate to mix milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice for a flavorful marinade.
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Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with smoked paprika or fresh garlic to elevate the flavors in your coating—each tweak can make your tacos uniquely delicious!
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Cooling Crispy Tacos: Always drain fried shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping your tacos from becoming greasy and ensuring that crunch stays intact.
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Immediate Serving: For the best experience, assemble and serve your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos right away. This guarantees that every bite is fresh and thrilling!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations
Customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for an even more delightful experience!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or drizzle extra sriracha on top for a fiery boost that brings heat to each delightful bite.
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Grilled Alternatives: Swap out fried shrimp for grilled shrimp or chicken for a smokier flavor and a healthier twist. Just marinate your protein beforehand!
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Tropical Twist: Top your tacos with a pineapple or mango salsa for a refreshing and fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory shrimp.
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Crispy Addition: Include grated carrots or crispy fried onions for added crunch, balancing the soft tortillas and creamy sauce beautifully!
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Flavorful Flour: Try using herb-infused tortillas—like spinach or sun-dried tomato— to add an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based shrimp or chickpeas for a delicious vegan taco that everyone can enjoy, without skimping on flavor.
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Creamy Avocado: Slice up some fresh avocado or add guacamole to enhance creaminess, which perfectly counterbalances the crispy shrimp.
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Zesty Lime: Squeeze extra lime juice over your assembled tacos for that zingy brightness that rounds out the flavors stunningly!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the bold flavors of these tacos.
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Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and spicy grilled corn adds a burst of flavor, creating a perfect balance with the shrimp’s crunch.
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Fresh Mango Salsa: A bright and fruity salsa brings a refreshing contrast to the creamy Bang Bang sauce. Every bite feels like a tropical getaway!
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch of sweet potato fries provide a delightful texture balance to the dish. They are a fun twist on classic fries!
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and lime dressing offers a nutritional upgrade while enhancing the meal’s freshness.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: This medley of seasonal fruits makes for a vibrant side dish that cleanses the palate, perfect after the spicy shrimp.
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Lime Mojito: A refreshing mojito’s minty flavor complements the tacos nicely, making it a fantastic pairing for leisurely evenings.
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Chocolate Flan: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert; its richness pairs wonderfully with the zesty tacos for a complete dining experience.
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 2 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp and toppings separate to maintain their textures.
Freezer: For longer storage, the fried shrimp can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crispy again, rather than microwaving, to help retain that delicious crunch.
Sauce Storage: Keep any extra Bang Bang sauce in the fridge in a jar for up to a week; it pairs beautifully with other dishes too!
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and coat them with the flour mixture up to 24 hours in advance, keeping everything in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For the best texture, it’s ideal to fry the shrimp just before serving, so save that step for when you’re ready to enjoy. Additionally, the Bang Bang sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Simply reheat the shrimp in an oven to restore their crispiness and serve with warm tortillas and fresh toppings. This way, you can savor restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I select fresh shrimp for the recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that appear firm and have a slightly glossy sheen. They should smell sweet and fresh, like the sea, without any strong fishy odor. If you notice dark spots or a slimy texture, it’s best to avoid those.
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
You can refrigerate leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispy texture, I recommend storing the shrimp and toppings separately. Just reheat the shrimp in the oven for about 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to keep them crunchy!
Can I freeze the fried shrimp for later use?
Yes! To freeze the fried shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for around 10-12 minutes to crisp them up again.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out soggy?
Very! If your shrimp turns out soggy, it may be due to a few reasons. Ensure the oil is hot enough at a temperature of 350°F (175°C) before frying. Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can drop the oil temperature. If you’re still having issues, try using cornstarch in addition to flour for an extra crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
The more the merrier! To adapt the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for a gluten-free diet, you can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, check your sauces to ensure they are gluten-free, and your shrimp will be deliciously safe for everyone to enjoy!
How do I store extra Bang Bang sauce?
You can keep any leftover Bang Bang sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. It’s not only perfect for these tacos but can also be used as a delightful dipping sauce for other appetizers like egg rolls or spring rolls. Enjoy those tasty leftovers!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Quick Fiesta for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Stir well, and set aside to let the flavors meld together.
- Place the large, fresh shrimp in a bowl and soak them in buttermilk for 10-15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- In a large pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Heat it to 350°F (175°C).
- Take each shrimp out of the buttermilk and dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Working in batches, carefully drop the coated shrimp into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- While the shrimp are frying, heat the tortillas in a separate pan until warmed through and pliable.
- On each tortilla, layer a generous amount of shredded cabbage, add the fried shrimp, and drizzle with the prepared Bang Bang sauce.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime slices on the side.