Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

If you have a craving for a dish that bursts with flavor, crunch, and a little spicy-sweet kick, let me introduce you to the unforgettable magic of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. These tacos combine crispy, golden shrimp soaked in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, topped off with fresh cabbage and creamy avocado slices wrapped in soft tortillas. The delightful contrast between crunchy shrimp and smooth avocado, with the tangy zing of lime, will have you reaching for another bite before you even put the first down. Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and an absolute joy to make at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos couldn’t be easier, especially since each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing texture, flavor, and balance to the final dish. From the tender shrimp to the crunchy panko and the creamy sauce, here’s what you’ll want to gather:

• 1 pound large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, fresh or thawed to ensure perfect crispiness when fried.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the shrimp and adds a subtle tanginess.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the seasoned coating that helps create a crispy crust.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and a beautiful color.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For savory depth that complements the shrimp.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile with a sweet undertone.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings a hint of heat to match the bang bang sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Key for that irresistible crunch that defines these tacos.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the signature bang bang sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness balanced with a gentle spice.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha: Adjust this to taste for your preferred spice level in the sauce.
• 8 small flour tortillas: Soft and pliable to hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.
• 2 cups shredded cabbage: Adds crisp freshness and a bit of color contrast.
• 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy texture to balance the heat and crunch.
• Lime wedges: The perfect finishing touch, adding a bright citrus pop with every squeeze.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Soak the Shrimp

Begin by soaking your peeled, deveined shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This step is pure magic—it tenderizes the shrimp and infuses them with a subtle tang that elevates the final flavors. Plus, it helps the coating stick better, ensuring every bite has that perfect crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour Mixture

While the shrimp soak, mix together your all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This blend is the secret behind the savory, slightly spicy crust that makes these tacos so addictive. Each spice adds a unique note, transforming the shrimp into something truly spectacular.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Once your shrimp have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off the extra. Then dip them back into the buttermilk before pressing each shrimp into the panko breadcrumbs. The double coating ensures an extra crispy, golden crust that holds up wonderfully inside your taco.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about an inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, fry the shrimp in batches until they’re gorgeously golden brown and cooked through—typically about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This frying step is where your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos truly come alive, with that irresistible crispy texture.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. This creamy, spicy sauce is the heartbeat of the dish—rich, a little sweet, and with a pleasant kick. You can always tweak the sriracha amount to make the sauce just right for your spice cravings.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Lay out your small tortillas and pile on a generous handful of shredded cabbage for crunch and freshness. Top with the crispy shrimp, drizzle lively bang bang sauce over the top, and crown with buttery sliced avocado. Add a lime wedge on the side to squeeze over the tacos just before devouring to brighten every mouthful.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Garnishes

The garnishes bring the final touches that turn these tacos from delicious to unforgettable. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds zing and balances the heat, while a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions can add that fresh herbal note. Don’t forget extra bang bang sauce as a dip or drizzle—you’ll want it!

Side Dishes

Pairing your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with the right sides enhances the entire meal experience. Consider serving with a light, refreshing cucumber salad or Mexican street corn for contrasting textures and flavors. A simple black bean and corn salad also complements the tacos perfectly with its earthy sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or just switch things up, try serving your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with colorful edible flowers or microgreens on top. Alternatively, build a taco bar where everyone assembles their own, complete with different salsas, chopped onions, and lime wedges. It turns dining into a festive, interactive event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, store the shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep the shrimp crispy longer and prevents the sauce from sogging out the tortillas. The cabbage and avocado are best added fresh when you reheat and serve again.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy these tacos fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp wrapped tightly in freezer-safe bags for up to two months. Keep in mind the texture of the fried coating might soften a bit after thawing, but the flavors will stay intact. Store the bang bang sauce separately in the fridge and never freeze the tortillas or avocado.

Reheating

For reheating the shrimp, pop them spread out on a baking sheet into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to help re-crisp the coating. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the shrimp soggy. Assemble the tacos fresh after reheating, topping with cold avocado and cabbage for the best texture contrast.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before starting to soak and coat. Proper thawing prevents excess moisture that can affect the coating and frying.

How spicy are these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The level of spice is moderate thanks to the cayenne in the coating and the sriracha in the sauce. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the sriracha or cayenne pepper to suit your taste preference.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade buttermilk works perfectly for tenderizing the shrimp.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the coated shrimp on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway.

What kind of tortillas work best for these tacos?

Soft small flour tortillas are ideal for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos because they are pliable and hold all the fillings without breaking. You can warm them up in a pan or microwave for extra softness and better flavor.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are truly one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making over and over because they hit every note you could want from a taco—crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos are a fantastic way to impress and satisfy your taste buds with minimal fuss. So grab those ingredients, get cooking, and trust me, your kitchen is about to smell amazing and your dinner plate filled with happiness!

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