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+ servings
Mary Kelly

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

When 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.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1081

Ingredients
  

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

Equipment

  • Paper towels

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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

Calories: 1081kcalCarbohydrates: 100gProtein: 15gFat: 70.4gSaturated Fat: 8.7gTrans Fat: 9.9gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 2574mgFiber: 10gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 27IUVitamin C: 44mgCalcium: 34mgIron: 50mg

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.

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