These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are an explosion of flavor with a mix of spicy, creamy, and crispy goodness. Perfect for a fun taco night or to impress your guests, this recipe is easy to follow and incredibly delicious.
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Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Description
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The shrimp are coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a mouth-watering bang bang sauce.
- Quick and Easy: With a few ingredients, you’ll have tacos ready in just 30 minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe will be a hit with family and friends alike!
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for desired heat level)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
Tacos
- 8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse and pat dry the shrimp. Place them in a bowl with buttermilk and let them soak for about 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix the cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Fry the Shrimp
- Remove shrimp from the buttermilk, shaking off any excess liquid.
- Coat each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
- Fry the shrimp in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using).
- Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until they’re well-coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave for a few seconds until soft.
- Place a handful of shredded cabbage or lettuce on each tortilla.
- Add a few shrimp to each taco, then top with cilantro and green onions.
- Serve with lime wedges for a fresh squeeze of lime juice on top.
Notes
- These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh avocado salad.
- For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 12
- Cuisine: American
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor, but if frozen is all you have, make sure to thaw and pat them dry well.
- Customize the Spice: Add more or less sriracha to the sauce depending on how spicy you like it.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the shrimp and sauce separately and assemble the tacos just before serving.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp in a hot skillet for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these shrimp tacos gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Use corn tortillas and replace cornstarch with a gluten-free flour or gluten-free panko.
Q: Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying them? A: Yes, coat the shrimp in a light layer of oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy.
Conclusion: A Taco Night Favorite! Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delightful blend of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to become a taco night staple in your home!
Enjoy these tacos, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media!
