Description
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, nestled into warm tortillas, and topped with fresh slaw—every bite is crunchy, saucy, and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting Taco Tuesday or just craving something bold and fun, these tacos deliver big flavor with simple ingredients.
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Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
½ cup cornstarch
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tsp honey
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
For the Slaw:
1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
½ cup shredded carrots
2 tbsp chopped green onions
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt & pepper to taste
For Serving:
6–8 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed)
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar.
Taste and adjust spice level as desired.
Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Place cleaned shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk. Let soak for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge the marinated shrimp in the dry mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.
Step 5: Toss in Sauce
In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with half of the bang bang sauce.
Reserve the rest for drizzling or dipping.
Step 6: Make the Slaw
In a small bowl, toss cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes to slightly soften and absorb the flavors.
Step 7: Assemble the Tacos
Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
Add a small handful of slaw to each tortilla.
Top with bang bang shrimp.
Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado or pickled onions.
Notes
Dry Shrimp Well – Pat shrimp dry before marinating for best texture.
Double-Coat for Extra Crunch – Press the coating in firmly for crispier shrimp.
Adjust the Heat – Add more or less sriracha depending on your spice preference.
Serve Immediately – Shrimp is best hot and crispy right after cooking.
Make it Healthier – Air fry or bake the shrimp instead of frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American–Asian Fusion