There’s something undeniably exciting about a taco night, and when you add the zesty crunch of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos to the mix, you’ve got a showstopper that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Picture this: crispy, perfectly breaded shrimp, tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, all beautifully piled on warm tortillas alongside vibrant crunchy slaw. It’s a blissful flavor explosion that transforms a simple meal into a festive feast.
After one particularly uninspired week of takeout, I decided it was time to reignite my love for home-cooked meals. That’s when I stumbled upon these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, a delightful recipe that not only satisfies my craving for bold flavors but also shines as an easy crowd-pleaser. In just under an hour, you can whip up these vibrant tacos that will make your kitchen smell like a coastal taco shack.
Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual dinner or simply want to treat yourself, these tacos are both satisfying and fun to make! They’re a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or a fantastic option for your next get-together. Ready to dive into flavor? Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The combination of crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce offers a mouthwatering explosion of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- These tacos are versatile too, making them perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings while pleasing every palate.
- With their vibrant colors and textures, they not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on the table, ready to impress your guests.
- The quick preparation and cooking time ensure you can indulge in this flavorful dish without sacrificing your evening.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
Get ready to dive into a flavor-packed adventure with these ingredients!
For the Shrimp
• Medium to large shrimp – peeled and deveined shrimp make for a deliciously tender bite.
• Buttermilk – tenderizes the shrimp and adds incredible flavor; you can use milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
For the Coating
• Cornstarch – helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when frying.
• Flour – use all-purpose or a gluten-free blend for a crunchy outer layer.
For Frying
• Neutral oil – vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best for frying the shrimp to golden perfection.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – provides a creamy base for the sauce, opt for full-fat or light based on your preference.
• Sweet chili sauce – adds a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy elements.
• Sriracha – for that spicy kick, adjust according to your heat tolerance.
• Rice vinegar – balances the sauce with a hint of tanginess.
For the Crunchy Slaw
• Green cabbage – adds a refreshing crunch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Red cabbage – not only enhances the color but also brings additional texture.
• Shredded carrots – sweet and crunchy, they elevate the slaw’s flavor and appearance.
• Fresh cilantro – adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
• Fresh lime juice – brightens up the slaw with zesty flavor.
• Honey or agave nectar – a touch of sweetness enhances the slaw’s overall taste; feel free to skip if you prefer it less sweet.
For Assembly
• Corn or flour tortillas – delicious vessels for your flavorful filling.
• Extra lime wedges – perfect for a zesty squeeze when serving.
• Fresh cilantro or thinly sliced red onion – great garnishes that add a final touch of color and flavor.
Let’s transform your kitchen into a bustling taco bar with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Prepare the Crunchy Slaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded green and red cabbage with shredded carrots and chopped fresh cilantro. Whisk together fresh lime juice, honey (or agave nectar), and a pinch of salt and pepper for the dressing. Pour over the veggies and toss until well coated. Set aside in the fridge to chill.
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Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy. Adjust the levels of sriracha and sweet chili to your tasting preference. Cover and set aside.
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Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. In one shallow bowl, pour the buttermilk. In another shallow bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk to coat, then dredge in the cornstarch-flour mix, ensuring a nice coating.
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Cook the Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp: Heat 1-2 inches of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack over paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
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Toss the Shrimp with Sauce: Transfer the cooked shrimp to a large bowl. Drizzle about two-thirds of the Bang Bang sauce over them. Gently toss until lightly coated, saving some sauce for later.
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Assemble Your Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a skillet or oven. On each tortilla, spoon a generous amount of crunchy slaw, top with the saucy Bang Bang shrimp, drizzle with the reserved sauce, and garnish with lime and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Optional: Add extra lime wedges for that perfect zesty finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these tacos to suit your taste buds! Each delicious variation offers a new twist on the original recipe, making it even more fun to enjoy.
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Spicy Addition: Add diced jalapeños to the crunchy slaw for an extra kick. This will give a delightful heat that balances beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Creamy Alternative: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce. This swap adds tanginess and a protein boost without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with crispy battered cauliflower or tofu. Season them well for a satisfying veggie version that everyone can enjoy!
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate segments of orange or grapefruit into the slaw. This brings a refreshing burst of sweetness that complements the spicy sauce perfectly.
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Flavorful Marinade: Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro before coating and frying. This adds an aromatic depth to each bite.
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Crunchy Toppings: Top the tacos with crushed tortilla chips or panko for an extra satisfying crunch. This textural twist elevates the overall experience of each taco.
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Zesty Dressing: Drizzle some lime crema made from sour cream and lime juice over the assembled tacos for a tangy finish. It ties all the flavors together beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or parsley in the slaw for a unique flavor profile. These herbs add a bright freshness that’s irresistible.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Fridge: Keep leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, it’s best to store shrimp and slaw separately from the tortillas.
Freezer: For freezing, store the crispy shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the assembled tacos, as the tortillas can become soggy.
Reheating: To enjoy the shrimp again, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Warm tortillas on the stovetop just before serving for the best texture.
Preparation Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider preparing the slaw fresh when ready to enjoy. This keeps your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos crunchy and delightful!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Picture your table filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas, complementing the zingy flavors of these tantalizing tacos.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This fluffy, zesty rice acts as a delightful base, soaking up the flavors of your shrimp tacos beautifully.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn brushed with lime and butter brings a satisfying crunch and sweet contrast to the spicy shrimp.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and diced peppers adds texture and a protein boost, perfectly pairing with the meal.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings soothing richness that balances the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce and shrimp.
Add a refreshing drink to cleanse the palate and enhance the experience.
- Margaritas: A classic choice! The citrusy notes and slight tartness of a margarita perfectly complement the bold flavors of your tacos.
- Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa adds a fresh twist and exotic sweetness that can elevate the taco experience, giving a cheerful touch to every bite.
Wrap up the meal with a sweet touch for those with a sweet tooth.
- Churros: These crispy, sugary delights can be dipped in chocolate sauce, rounding off your taco night with a sweet ending.
- Lime Sorbet: Tart and refreshing, this dessert offers a light alternative that cleanses the palate after the rich flavors of your tacos.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor bold flavors on busy weeknights! You can prepare the crunchy slaw and the Bang Bang sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. The shrimp can also be coated in the cornstarch-flour mixture up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. When it’s time to serve, simply fry the shrimp and assemble the tacos, drizzling them with the pre-prepared sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, make sure to pat the shrimp dry to ensure the coating sticks properly and results in that desired crunch.
- For the best texture, use a mix of cornstarch and flour when dredging the shrimp, as this combination helps achieve a golden and crispy exterior.
- Keep your frying oil at a consistent temperature between 350-375°F to prevent the shrimp from becoming greasy or undercooked; using a thermometer can help maintain accuracy.
- Lastly, be sure to warm the tortillas just before assembling the tacos to ensure they are pliable and enhance your overall taco experience.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my shrimp are fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a slightly shiny appearance. Avoid any shrimp that have dark spots all over or a strong ammonia smell; these are signs they might not be fresh. If you’re buying frozen, make sure the package isn’t damaged and the shrimp have been kept at a consistent temperature.
How should I store leftovers?
For sure! Place any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I recommend keeping the shrimp and the slaw separate from the tortillas to maintain their textures. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 days. Just rewarm the shrimp and tortillas before serving again for the best results!
Can I freeze the Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, indeed! For freezing the shrimp, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the assembled tacos as the tortillas can become soggy when thawed.
What if my shrimp coating is not crispy?
Very frustrating! To achieve that desired crunch, make sure to pat the shrimp dry before coating, which helps the dredge stick better. Additionally, ensure your oil is hot enough (350-375°F or 175-190°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the coating can become soggy. Frying in small batches can also help maintain the oil’s temperature.
Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos safe for people with allergies?
Absolutely! Keep in mind that this recipe contains shrimp, dairy (buttermilk and mayonnaise), and gluten (if using regular flour). If you or your guests have allergies to any of these, consider substituting with gluten-free flour, using a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative, or checking for shrimp allergies before serving. Always adjust the recipe to accommodate dietary needs safely!
Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the crunchy slaw a day in advance. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, but it’s best to add the lime juice right before serving to keep it freshly zesty!
Equipment
- Large bowl
- medium bowl
- Shallow bowls
- Large skillet
- Wire rack
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound Medium to large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup Buttermilk or milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice
For the Coating
- 1 cup Cornstarch
- 1/2 cup Flour all-purpose or gluten-free
For Frying
- 2 cups Neutral oil vegetable, canola, or peanut oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise full-fat or light
- 1/4 cup Sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
For the Crunchy Slaw
- 2 cups Green cabbage shredded
- 1 cup Red cabbage shredded
- 1 cup Shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon Honey or agave nectar optional
For Assembly
- 8 units Corn or flour tortillas
- 1 unit Extra lime wedges for serving
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro or thinly sliced red onion for garnish
Instructions
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- In a large bowl, combine shredded green and red cabbage with shredded carrots and chopped fresh cilantro. Whisk together fresh lime juice, honey (or agave nectar), and a pinch of salt and pepper for the dressing. Pour over the veggies and toss until well coated. Set aside in the fridge to chill.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy. Adjust the levels of sriracha and sweet chili to your tasting preference. Cover and set aside.
- Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. In one shallow bowl, pour the buttermilk. In another shallow bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk to coat, then dredge in the cornstarch-flour mix, ensuring a nice coating.
- Heat 1-2 inches of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack over paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
- Transfer the cooked shrimp to a large bowl. Drizzle about two-thirds of the Bang Bang sauce over them. Gently toss until lightly coated, saving some sauce for later.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or oven. On each tortilla, spoon a generous amount of crunchy slaw, top with the saucy Bang Bang shrimp, drizzle with the reserved sauce, and garnish with lime and cilantro. Serve immediately.
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