Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe for Taco Tuesday Fun

Crispy, zesty bang bang shrimp tacos burst with explosive flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.

These mouthwatering tacos combine perfectly fried shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that packs a serious punch.

The delicate crunch of golden shrimp meets a silky, tangy coating that elevates every single bite.

Tender tortillas cradle the delectable seafood, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Bright, fresh ingredients blend seamlessly to create a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in minutes.

Each taco delivers a carnival of flavors that will transport you straight to coastal dining bliss.

Prepare to fall in love with this irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish that promises to become a new weeknight favorite.

Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Ingredients

• Shrimp: Fresh protein that serves as the star of these delicious tacos.

• Buttermilk: Helps tenderize and add subtle tangy flavor to the shrimp.
• Salt, Pepper, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: Classic seasoning blend that enhances the shrimp's natural taste.

• Cornstarch: Provides a crispy exterior and helps create a golden brown crust on the shrimp.
• Vegetable Oil: Essential for deep frying the shrimp to achieve a perfect crispy texture.

• Mayonnaise, Thai Sweet Chili Sauce, Sriracha: Creates a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that coats the shrimp.

• Tortillas: Soft corn or flour base for the tacos.
• Cabbage, Tomatoes, Cilantro: Fresh vegetables that add crunch, color, and bright flavors.

• Lime: Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness to complete the taco.

Cooking Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Marinate Seafood Sensation

Peel and devein the shrimp carefully.

• Salt
• Pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder

Gently coat the shrimp in the marinade and let them rest while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare Crispy Coating Station

Heat oil in a deep pot to 375°F.

Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.

Generously dust each piece with cornstarch, ensuring even coverage.

Work in small batches to prevent clumping.

Step 3: Fry To Golden Perfection

Carefully lower shrimp into hot oil.

Fry for 2-3 minutes per batch until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer crispy shrimp onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Create Explosive Bang Bang Sauce

• Mayonnaise
• Thai sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha

Adjust Sriracha quantity to match your spice preference.

Step 5: Flavor Infusion

Toss the fried shrimp in half of the prepared sauce.

Allow them to sit for 10 minutes, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Taco Assembly Celebration

Warm tortillas over a gas flame or skillet.

• Sauced shrimp
• Sliced cabbage
• Diced tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro

Drizzle remaining sauce over the tacos.

Finish with a bright squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp

• Marinate shrimp in buttermilk for at least 15-30 minutes to tenderize and enhance taste, ensuring juicier and more flavorful results.
• Pat shrimp completely dry before coating with cornstarch to achieve a super crispy exterior that stays crunchy even after sauce coating.
• Adjust Bang Bang sauce heat by gradually adding Sriracha, tasting as you mix to create your perfect balance of mild or fiery flavor.
• Keep oil temperature consistent at 375°F and avoid overcrowding the pan to guarantee evenly cooked, golden-brown shrimp without greasy texture.
• Warm tortillas just before serving to maintain softness and prevent cracking, ensuring a delightful eating experience with maximum freshness.

Storing Bang Bang Tacos

• Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Wrap cooled shrimp individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing assembled tacos to maintain texture.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Warm for 5-7 minutes until heated through, turning once to prevent drying out.
• Set air fryer to 350°F. Place shrimp in a single layer and heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking basket halfway through to ensure even warming and crispy texture.

What to Eat with Bang Bang Tacos

• Spice Up Your Sip: Crisp Margarita Pairing
• Match the zesty Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with a classic margarita that cuts through the richness. The tequila's sharpness and lime juice complement the spicy, creamy sauce while balancing the fried shrimp's crunch.
• Cool Down the Heat: Chilled Wheat Beer
• Select a light wheat beer with subtle citrus notes to calm the Sriracha's kick. Its refreshing character and slight sweetness will dance perfectly with the Thai chili sauce's tanginess and shrimp's delicate flavor.
• Fresh and Tangy Sidekick: Cucumber Mint Mocktail
• Create a non-alcoholic option that neutralizes the dish's spiciness. Blend fresh cucumber, mint leaves, lime juice, and sparkling water for a cooling companion that brightens every taco bite without overwhelming the shrimp's delicate taste.
• Tropical Twist: Pineapple Ginger Spritzer
• Craft a bright, zingy drink that echoes the tacos' complex flavors. Combine fresh pineapple juice, ginger syrup, and soda water to create a vibrant beverage that cuts through the richness while adding a tropical dimension.

Tasty Twists for Bang Bang Tacos

• Low-Carb Lettuce Wraps: Replace tortillas with crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter, carb-free version that's perfect for keto diets.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornstarch and corn tortillas to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower florets, marinating and coating them the same way for a plant-based protein option.
• Air Fryer Method: Skip deep-frying by cooking shrimp in an air fryer at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, creating a healthier cooking technique with similar crispy results.

FAQs

• What makes Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos unique?

The combination of crispy fried shrimp, creamy spicy Bang Bang sauce, and fresh taco toppings creates an explosion of textures and flavors that sets these tacos apart from traditional seafood tacos.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to completely thaw them, pat them dry, and remove any excess moisture before marinating to ensure a crispy coating when frying.

• Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce or eliminate the Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce, or use a milder hot sauce. You can also use less chili sauce to control the heat level while maintaining the signature tangy flavor.

• What type of tortillas work best for these tacos?

Corn tortillas are traditional and provide the best authentic flavor and texture. Flour tortillas can work too, but corn tortillas will give you that classic taco experience and hold up better with the crispy shrimp.

Why Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Are a Favorite

• Dive into a culinary adventure with these bang bang shrimp tacos that pack a serious punch of taste without requiring professional chef skills. The simple marinade and quick frying process make gourmet cooking accessible to everyone.
• Take control of your spice experience by adjusting the Sriracha in the bang bang sauce. Whether you're a heat seeker or prefer milder flavors, this recipe lets you dial the spiciness up or down to match your personal preference.
• Prepare these tantalizing tacos in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy families or spontaneous meal cravings. The recipe comes together faster than ordering takeout, delivering restaurant-quality flavors right in your kitchen.
• These shrimp tacos are a guaranteed hit for everything from casual game nights to laid-back dinner parties. The vibrant mix of crispy shrimp, fresh toppings, and zesty sauce ensures everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

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4.9 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy bang bang shrimp tacos bring coastal California flavors to your dinner table with crispy prawns and zesty sauce. Quick and irresistible, these tacos will make you crave more with their perfect blend of crunch and creamy heat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed

Breading and Seasoning:

• 3/4 cup corn starch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Frying and Sauce Ingredients:

• Peanut oil or Canola oil for frying shrimp
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
• 3 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce, or to taste

Taco Components:

• 8 to 12 small white corn tortillas, or hard taco shells
• 3 cups purple or green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, coarsely chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp by removing shells and veins. Create a zesty marinade using buttermilk and spices. Immerse shrimp completely, allowing flavors to penetrate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Preheat cooking oil to 375°F in a deep pot. Carefully remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Generously coat each piece with cornstarch, ensuring complete coverage.
3. Carefully lower shrimp into hot oil, frying in small batches for 2-3 minutes. Rotate pieces midway to achieve uniform golden-brown crispiness. Remove with a slotted spoon, placing on paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Craft the signature Bang Bang sauce by whisking mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Adjust Sriracha quantity to match desired spice level.
5. Gently toss crispy shrimp in half of the prepared sauce, allowing them to marinate for 10 minutes and absorb rich flavors.
6. Warm tortillas over direct flame or skillet until lightly charred. Layer with crispy sauce-coated shrimp, fresh shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
7. Finish tacos by drizzling remaining Bang Bang sauce and squeezing fresh lime juice for a bright, tangy complement.

Notes

• Marinate shrimp in buttermilk for at least 15-20 minutes to help tenderize and infuse deeper flavor into the seafood.
• Use cornstarch for an extra crispy coating by ensuring shrimp are completely dry before dredging to prevent oil splattering.
• Maintain consistent oil temperature around 375°F for perfectly golden and crisp shrimp without becoming greasy or soggy.
• Customize heat levels in Bang Bang sauce by adjusting Sriracha quantity to suit individual spice preferences.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 160 mg