Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re in for a treat with these sensational bang bang shrimp tacos! First and foremost, they deliver an explosion of flavor. The sauce, a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, coats perfectly crispy shrimp, creating a harmonious symphony on your palate.
Furthermore, this recipe is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. You can have these magnificent bang bang shrimp tacos on the table in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights when you still crave something gourmet. They offer an exciting alternative to your usual dinner rotation, far more adventurous than plain old chicken and rice.
Moreover, the customizable nature of these spicy shrimp tacos means everyone at the table can tailor them to their liking, adding more spice or extra fresh toppings. Finally, these homemade bang bang shrimp tacos are simply fun to eat! Building your own taco creates an interactive dining experience that both adults and kids adore.
Get ready to fall head over heels for these truly addictive bang bang shrimp tacos.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these show-stopping bang bang shrimp tacos requires a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples. The star, of course, is the shrimp, but the sauce and accompanying slaw truly elevate the dish. Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Crispy Shrimp:
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails off
* ½ cup cornstarch
* ¼ cup all-purpose flour
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ½ teaspoon onion powder
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
* 1 large egg, beaten
* Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
* ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
* ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
* 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 teaspoon lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
For the Slaw & Tacos:
* 3 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
* 1 medium carrot, shredded
* ¼ cup chopped cilantro
* 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 12 small flour tortillas or corn tortillas
For Garnish (Optional):
* Extra chopped cilantro
* Lime wedges
* Thinly sliced green onions
* Sesame seeds
Substitutions & Variations
This recipe for bang bang shrimp tacos is incredibly versatile, allowing for many delicious substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Don’t feel constrained by the original ingredients; let your culinary creativity shine! For the main protein, if shrimp isn’t your preference or you have an allergy, consider using diced chicken breast or firm tofu.
Simply cut the chicken or tofu into bite-sized pieces, toss with cornstarch and flour, and pan-fry until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll still achieve that delightful crispy texture for your bang bang chicken tacos or bang bang tofu tacos.
Regarding the bang bang sauce itself, you can adjust the heat level. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or omit it entirely and perhaps add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor. If you prefer more heat, don’t hesitate to add extra sriracha or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
For a lighter sauce, you can use light mayonnaise or even plain Greek yogurt as a base, though the texture might be slightly different. A touch of maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan-friendly option if you’re using vegan mayo.
The slaw offers another fantastic opportunity for customization. While cabbage and carrots are classic, feel free to incorporate other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or even jicama for an added layer of freshness. A different dressing for the slaw can also change the profile of these bang bang shrimp tacos significantly; think a ginger-lime vinaigrette or a sesame-soy dressing.
For tortillas, flour tortillas are soft and pliable, but corn tortillas offer a gluten-free alternative and a distinct flavor. You could even use lettuce cups for a low-carb version of these amazing bang bang shrimp tacos. Some people enjoy adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra lime juice for brightness.
Moreover, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh mango salsa or pineapple salsa for a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the spicy shrimp. These modifications ensure everyone can enjoy their perfect version of bang bang shrimp tacos.
This recipe for bang bang shrimp tacos is incredibly versatile, allowing for many delicious substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these incredible bang bang shrimp tacos is a straightforward process, breaking down into a few simple steps. Follow along carefully, and you’ll be enjoying these delightful shrimp tacos in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
First, pat your peeled and deveined shrimp very dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the coating adhere better and ensures maximum crispiness. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
In another shallow bowl, beat the egg. Dip each shrimp first into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then transfer it to the dry mixture. Toss to coat evenly, pressing gently to ensure the flour mixture sticks. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate while you heat the oil.
Step 2: Fry the Shrimp
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep pot over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, a good test is to drop a tiny pinch of flour into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan.
Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and prevents crispiness. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the cooked shrimp from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This step is key for truly crispy bang bang shrimp tacos.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the irresistible bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until completely smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the sriracha level to your personal preference for spice. You want a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy for your bang bang shrimp tacos.
Step 4: Prepare the Slaw
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, then sprinkle with salt. Toss everything gently until the vegetables are lightly coated and well mixed. This fresh slaw adds a fantastic crunch and bright counterpoint to the rich shrimp.
Step 5: Assemble the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 15-20 seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or briefly over an open flame for a slightly charred flavor. Once the shrimp are drained, transfer them to a large bowl.
Pour the prepared bang bang sauce over the shrimp and toss gently until every piece is thoroughly coated. Now, it’s time to build your bang bang shrimp tacos! Place a spoonful of the fresh slaw into the center of each warm tortilla.
Top generously with the saucy bang bang shrimp. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy these incredible bang bang shrimp tacos!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving restaurant-quality bang bang shrimp tacos at home is absolutely possible with a few professional tricks up your sleeve. These simple tips will elevate your dish from good to absolutely fantastic.
Firstly, always start with perfectly dry shrimp. After peeling and deveining, pat the shrimp thoroughly with paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness; it can make the coating soggy and prevent that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Secondly, use a good quality oil for frying, one with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (350-375°F or 175-190°C) before adding the shrimp.
If the oil is too cold, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy; if it’s too hot, the coating will burn before the shrimp cooks through. A kitchen thermometer is a small investment that makes a huge difference in achieving consistently crispy bang bang shrimp.
Furthermore, do not overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry the shrimp in batches, giving each piece enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and results in steamed, rather than crispy, shrimp.
After frying, transfer the cooked shrimp to a wire rack set over paper towels. This allows air to circulate around the shrimp, keeping them crisp, rather than steaming them on a flat surface.
When it comes to the bang bang sauce, taste and adjust! Everyone has a different preference for spice and sweetness. Add sriracha gradually until it hits your perfect spot.
A squeeze of fresh lime juice in the sauce truly brightens the flavors and adds a zesty tang that cuts through the richness. Moreover, for the slaw, prepare it just before serving to maintain its crunch. If you make it too far in advance, the salt and lime juice can draw out moisture, making it less crisp.
Lastly, warm your tortillas. Cold tortillas can be stiff and less enjoyable. A quick warm-up makes them pliable and enhances their flavor, making your bang bang shrimp tacos even more delicious. Follow these tips, and you’ll create bang bang shrimp tacos that impress every time.
Achieving restaurant-quality bang bang shrimp tacos at home is absolutely possible with a few professional tricks up your sleeve. For even more delicious ideas, try making ourTacos with Bacon and Cheese.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While bang bang shrimp tacos are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh, you can store components separately for future enjoyment. This approach maintains the texture and prevents sogginess.
Store any leftover fried bang bang shrimp separately from the sauce and the slaw. Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The bang bang sauce can be stored in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Similarly, the slaw should be kept in a covered container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 1-2 days to maintain its freshness and crunch.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover bang bang shrimp, the best way to reheat them to restore crispiness is in an air fryer or oven. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), spread the shrimp on a baking sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Avoid the microwave for reheating the shrimp, as it will make them rubbery and soggy, diminishing the appeal of these once crispy bang bang shrimp tacos. Once the shrimp are warm and crisp, toss them with some of the stored bang bang sauce, assemble your fresh slaw and tortillas, and enjoy a quick replay of your delicious bang bang shrimp tacos.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These vibrant bang bang shrimp tacos are incredibly satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes can transform your meal into a full-fledged feast. Since the tacos themselves bring a lot of flavor and texture, think about sides that offer contrast or complement without overpowering.
A simple yet perfect accompaniment is a side of cilantro lime rice. The fluffy, aromatic rice provides a mild and refreshing counterpoint to the spicy kick of the shrimp, helping to balance the overall meal. Another excellent choice is black beans, either plain or seasoned lightly with cumin and a touch of lime juice. They add a hearty, protein-rich element that makes the meal more substantial.
For a lighter, fresher option, consider serving a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette. The crisp greens and tangy dressing provide a palate cleanser between bites of the rich bang bang shrimp tacos. If you love corn, grilled corn on the cob or a vibrant corn salad with red onion and bell peppers would be fantastic.
The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp. Additionally, a bowl of homemade guacamole and some tortilla chips offer a classic Mexican-inspired touch, allowing guests to snack while awaiting their tacos or add another layer of creaminess to their plate. Finally, for a touch of sweetness, a fresh fruit salad with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and papaya would provide a delightful finish. Any of these pairings will beautifully complement your sensational bang bang shrimp tacos.
These vibrant bang bang shrimp tacos are incredibly satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes can transform your meal into a full-fledged feast. To complement this dish, consider serving Potsticker Soup, which balances flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the bang bang sauce in advance is a fantastic time-saver. Simply whisk all the sauce ingredients together, taste to adjust for your preferred spice level, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your bang bang shrimp tacos even more flavorful when assembly time comes. Just give it a good stir before tossing with the freshly cooked shrimp.
How do I make the shrimp gluten-free for these bang bang shrimp tacos?
Making these bang bang shrimp tacos gluten-free is quite simple. Instead of all-purpose flour, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the coating. Ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free as well.
For the tortillas, opt for good quality corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise, to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten. With these adjustments, you can enjoy delicious gluten-free bang bang shrimp tacos.
What if I don’t want to deep-fry the shrimp?
No problem at all! You have a couple of healthier options for cooking the shrimp without deep-frying. For air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos, lightly coat the breaded shrimp with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Alternatively, for oven-baked bang bang shrimp, bake them on a wire rack set on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. The result will still be wonderfully crispy shrimp for your bang bang shrimp tacos.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly for these bang bang shrimp tacos. Just make sure to thaw them completely before you begin the preparation process.
The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in a colander under cold running water for about 5-10 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, pat them extremely dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up beautifully when fried. Using thawed, dry shrimp is essential for achieving the best texture for your bang bang shrimp tacos.
What kind of tortillas work best for bang bang shrimp tacos?
For bang bang shrimp tacos, both flour and corn tortillas work wonderfully, and the choice often comes down to personal preference. Small soft flour tortillas are popular because they are pliable and hold the fillings well, providing a neutral backdrop for the bold flavors.
Corn tortillas offer a slightly chewier texture and a distinct, earthy flavor that many adore, plus they are a gluten-free option. Warming either type of tortilla before serving is key, as it makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor, making your homemade bang bang shrimp tacos even better.
Bang bang shrimp tacos are a delicious fusion dish combining crispy shrimp with a spicy sauce, all nestled within soft tortillas. For more on the origins and variations of this popular recipe, you can explore the concept of seafood tacos as a culinary trend in the culinary world.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Approximate values, based on 3 tacos per serving with 2 oz shrimp and sauce/slaw)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 150mg |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 20g |
bang bang shrimp tacos
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy, spicy shrimp nestled in warm tortillas with a cool, creamy slaw, creating a textural and taste sensation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp – Pat shrimp dry, whisk together dry ingredients, dip in egg wash, coat with flour mixture
- Step 2: Fry the Shrimp – Heat oil, fry shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy
- Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce – Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice
- Step 4: Prepare the Slaw – Combine cabbage, carrot, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and salt
- Step 5: Assemble the Tacos – Warm tortillas, toss shrimp in sauce, fill tortillas with slaw and shrimp, and serve
Notes
Remember to keep shrimp dry for optimal crispiness.
Adjust sriracha to taste for desired spice level.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tacos
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg