Mary KellyWhen you’re ready to dive into the deliciousness of bang bang shrimp tacos, think about what else can elevate this meal. A refreshing side of mango salsa can add a tropical touch. The sweetness of the mango balances the spice of the shrimp well.
Alternatively, some cilantro-lime rice can provide a zesty complement. If you’re feeling adventurous, a chilled cucumber salad offers a crunchy contrast. Lastly, don’t forget a chilled beverage—perhaps a craft beer or a vibrant margarita. Now, let’s get into the good stuff!
You’ll Also Like These Recipes
Taco night is always a hit, but have you ever tried the combination of crispy shrimp and rich, spicy sauce wrapped in a warm tortilla? Let me introduce you to the star of your next dinner party: bang bang shrimp tacos.
These tasty treats bring the perfect blend of crunch and creaminess, with a kick that keeps you coming back for more. I first discovered bang bang shrimp in a bustling restaurant while on vacation, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite.
The combination of flavors is not just appealing; it’s downright addictive. So, why not bring that experience home?
In this post, you’ll find everything you need to whip up your own bang bang shrimp tacos, complete with expert tips. Ready to roll? Let’s dive in!
What Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Bang bang shrimp tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Crunchy breaded shrimp are coated in a creamy, spicy sauce and nestled inside soft tortillas. The dish bursts with flavors from the shrimp, a hint of smokiness, and a bite from the sauce.
Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also make a fun and delicious meal for everyone. Just imagine biting into a crispy shrimp, combined with fresh veggies and zesty sauce. It’s taco perfection!
Why This Recipe Works
What sets this recipe apart? First, it delivers on flavor. The bang bang sauce, which is a mixture of mayonnaise and chili garlic sauce, brings that beloved creamy kick. The shrimp, when deep-fried, achieves a golden crunch that pairs beautifully with the softness of the tortillas.
Each ingredient plays an integral role, creating a dish that is well-balanced. Plus, it’s versatile! Whether it’s fish night or taco Tuesday, this recipe has you covered.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Gathering quality ingredients ensures the best end result. For these bang bang shrimp tacos, you’ll need:
For Serving:
- 8 ounces of finely shredded cabbage (about 3 cups)
- 10 warmed taco-sized flour tortillas
- Thinly sliced radishes for garnish
- Thinly sliced jalapeños for a kick
- Sliced green onions to top off
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for a refreshing touch
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
For the Shrimp:
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch to create crispiness
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds of extra-large shrimp (26-30 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of buttermilk for marinating
- 6 cups of vegetable oil for deep frying
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 teaspoon of optional Sriracha sauce
- 1/4 cup of chili-garlic sauce
- 1 cup of creamy mayonnaise
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Let’s break this down. You’ll be preparing your ingredients and following easy steps to achieve taco greatness. The next section details the step-by-step instructions to keep your cooking flowing.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better. You’ll want a clean surface to work on. Next, marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This will add flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Make the Coating
Take a large bowl and combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix it thoroughly. This mixture will provide the crunchy coating for your shrimp.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Once your shrimp are nicely marinated, it’s time to coat them. Take each shrimp out of the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Then, dredge it in your flour mixture. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small drop of batter sizzles upon contact.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove them and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, chili-garlic sauce, and Sriracha (if you like things spicy). Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 7: Assemble the Tacos
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Warm your tortillas and fill them with shredded cabbage. Add crispy shrimp, then drizzle with your bang bang sauce. Top with radishes, jalapeños, green onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Choosing Fresh Shrimp: Look for shrimp that are pink and firm. Freshness makes a big difference.
- Embrace the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili-garlic sauce in the bang bang sauce to cater to your spice preference.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil. If too hot, they’ll burn.
- Crispness Counts: To achieve ultimate crunch, make sure to shake off excess buttermilk before coating.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment! Add avocado or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftover tacos—though I doubt it—store the shrimp and toppings separately. Place the shrimp in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’ll be good for about 1-2 days. Reheating the shrimp will require a quick trip back to the frying pan for that crunchy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp soggy.
Nutrition Information
Bang bang shrimp tacos recipe nutrition facts
How Would I Recommend Serving Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
If you want these tacos to really shine, consider these serving suggestions:
- At a Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with all the toppings and allow guests to build their own.
- Pair with Cold Drinks: Offer drinks like margaritas or cold beers. The acidity cuts through the richness perfectly.
- Outdoor Cookouts: Perfect for summer parties. Serve alongside grilled veggies or corn on the cob.
- Garnished Platters: Create a beautiful platter with tacos, lime wedges, and fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
- Shrimp Alternatives: If you can’t find shrimp, chicken tenders work well. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same coating method.
- Flour Substitutes: For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- Buttermilk Options: If you don’t have buttermilk, simply mix equal parts milk and yogurt to create a similar tang.
- Creamy Sauce Variations: If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative, with a little added lemon juice for zing.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better. You’ll want a clean surface to work on. Next, marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This will add flavor and moisture.
- Take a large bowl and combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix it thoroughly. This mixture will provide the crunchy coating for your shrimp.
- Once your shrimp are nicely marinated, it’s time to coat them. Take each shrimp out of the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Then, dredge it in your flour mixture. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated.
- In a large pot or deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small drop of batter sizzles upon contact.
- Carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove them and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, chili-garlic sauce, and Sriracha (if you like things spicy). Stir until everything is well combined.
- Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Warm your tortillas and fill them with shredded cabbage. Add crispy shrimp, then drizzle with your bang bang sauce. Top with radishes, jalapeños, green onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Nutrition
Notes
- Choosing Fresh Shrimp: Look for shrimp that are pink and firm. Freshness makes a big difference.
- Embrace the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili-garlic sauce in the bang bang sauce to cater to your spice preference.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil. If too hot, they’ll burn.
- Crispness Counts: To achieve ultimate crunch, make sure to shake off excess buttermilk before coating.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment! Add avocado or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes.
2. How hot should the oil be for frying?
The oil should reach about 350°F (175°C). A candy thermometer can help ensure it’s at the right temperature
3. Can I prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can! The sauce tastes even better when it sits for a few hours in the fridge, letting the flavors meld.
4. What fish types can I use instead of shrimp?
You can try tilapia or cod. Cut the fish into strips, coat them in the same way, and fry as you would the shrimp.
5. Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Just assemble the tacos without the sauce, and store shrimp and toppings separately. This way, you can enjoy fresh tacos whenever you want.
6. What can I do to spice up the bang bang sauce?
Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. You can also throw in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Bang bang shrimp tacos are not just a meal; they are an experience. Once you’ve made them, you’ll find they’re hard to resist. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos allow you to impress with minimal effort.
Their crunch, creaminess, and spice are sure to make an impression. Go ahead, give this recipe a try! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you. Happy cooking!
