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: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tacos in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The crispy shrimp paired with the creamy bang bang sauce creates a delightful taste experience.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, these tacos are always a hit.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh veggies for the slaw elevates the dish while adding crunch and color.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Slotted spoon
• Whisk
• Tongs or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for frying the shrimp to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess oil from the cooked shrimp for better texture.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending sauces smoothly without lumps.

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 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.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American–Asian Fusion

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not just delicious; they’re also versatile! You can elevate your taco experience with a range of toppings and accompaniments that add flavor and texture. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Fresh Toppings

• Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the spicy sauce.
• Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado balances the heat from the shrimp.
• Pickled Onions: These tangy onions provide a delightful crunch and acidity.

Flavorful Salsas

• Pineapple Salsa: A sweet and tangy salsa that enhances the tropical vibe of your tacos.
• Mango Salsa: Fresh mango mixed with lime and cilantro adds sweetness and brightness.

Crunchy Extras

• Extra Slaw: Serve additional slaw on the side for more crunch.
• Chili Sauce: Provide extra sriracha or chili sauce for those who love an extra kick.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have a better texture and flavor than frozen ones.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of sriracha in the sauce to tailor it to your desired heat level.
• Heat Oil Properly: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this will create a crispy coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Let Slaw Marinate: Allowing the slaw to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Pairing your tacos with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, lime, and spices for a creamy, savory treat.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime—perfect for adding protein.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime and salt complements the spiciness of the tacos.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and lime juice adds a zesty side that pairs well with shrimp.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa provide a crunchy appetizer before digging into the tacos.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted for added flavor make a nutritious side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will ensure your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos turn out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the Marination: Not allowing the shrimp to soak in buttermilk can lead to a less tender texture. Always marinate for 10–15 minutes.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy shrimp. Fry in small batches for the best crispiness.
• Neglecting the Sauce Balance: Using too much or too little sauce can overpower or underwhelm your tacos. Start with half and adjust according to your taste.
• Ignoring Slaw Preparation: Not letting the slaw sit can lead to a bland flavor. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes for better taste and texture.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can detract from the overall experience. Warm them up before assembling your tacos.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep shrimp and slaw separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to 2 months.
• Do not freeze slaw; prepare fresh when ready to serve.

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 for 1–2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, warm shrimp for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe:

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are thawed completely and patted dry before marinating.

What can I substitute if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?

You can mix equal parts of honey and sriracha as an alternative for sweet chili sauce.

How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. Start with one tablespoon and adjust based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.

What toppings work well with these tacos?

In addition to cilantro and lime, consider adding diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. You can easily customize them with different toppings or sauces according to your preference. Try this recipe today, and get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!