Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Creating flavorful meals brings a sense of joy and satisfaction. One of my favorite ways to celebrate is through vibrant dishes like Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Each bite delivers a combination of textures and flavors that are hard to resist. Picture perfectly crispy shrimp tucked into soft tortillas and complemented by creamy avocado and crunchy cabbage. Each component works harmoniously to create a culinary masterpiece.

The first time I tried Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, I couldn’t believe how well the ingredients melded together. The spicy, tangy sauce took the dish to a whole new level, exploding with flavor. It instantly became a go-to recipe for gatherings and intimate dinners alike. These tacos have a special way of bringing people together, sparking conversation and delight at every meal shared.

Gathering friends and family around a table of these tasty tacos speaks volumes about the beauty of home cooking. Making them adds a personal touch, transforming simple shrimp into something extraordinary. So let’s dive into the art of making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, the taste you absolutely must try.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fundamentals

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos deliver an unforgettable flavor experience with every bite. The foundation lies in properly preparing the shrimp. Start with large shrimp that are peeled and deveined—these provide meatiness while cooking. The first essential step involves soaking the shrimp in buttermilk. This not only tenderizes the shrimp but also infuses them with flavor. Allow the shrimp to soak in the cool, creamy liquid for at least 30 minutes, ensuring they absorb the richness of the buttermilk.

After the shrimp soak, prepare your dredging station. Combine all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend guarantees each shrimp will be packed with taste. Use two bowls; one for the flour mixture and another for the buttermilk. This organization streamlines the coating process and keeps your workspace tidy.

Preparation/setup

As you prepare, gather all ingredients needed for the recipe. Having everything ready before starting makes the cooking process smoother. You’ll require panko breadcrumbs, which add an irresistible crunch to the fried shrimp. Prepare a large skillet, filling it with oil for frying. Aim for about an inch of oil to ensure even cooking. The heat should be at medium-high, so test it with a small piece of shrimp to check for readiness.

Once the shrimp have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off the surplus. After this step, dip them back into the buttermilk, allowing a thin layer to cling. The final coating involves panko breadcrumbs, which provide that golden crisp after frying.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

Now it’s time to bring the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos to life! Follow these simple steps:

1. Start by soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. While the shrimp soak, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Dip the floured shrimp back into the buttermilk and then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat one inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain the fried shrimp on paper towels.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the heat level according to your preference.
7. Assemble the tacos: place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla, add fried shrimp, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and top with avocado slices.
8. Serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Perfecting Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Technique

The key to a perfect batch of Bang Bang Shrimp involves choosing the right technique. First, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; the shrimp need to sizzle as they hit the pan. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Conversely, if it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the shrimp are cooked through.

Batch frying prevents overcrowding in the skillet, leading to crispier shrimp. Each batch should have enough space to fry evenly. Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove the shrimp, making it easy to manage.

Tips/tricks

For the best texture, consider using fresh shrimp over frozen. Fresh shrimp contributes to a firmer bite and a more pronounced seafood flavor. For an extra crispy coating, use plain or seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Mixing in some crushed cornflakes can elevate the crunch factor even further.

Do not skip the buttermilk soak; this is essential for flavor and tenderness. Experiment with the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to tailor it to your heat preference. Don’t hesitate to add fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an additional flavor layer.

Enhancing Your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Perfecting results

To achieve perfect results, remember that timing is crucial. When frying, aim for a rich golden brown on each shrimp. The cooking process should take about 2-3 minutes per side, so avoid distractions. If you’re unsure, cut one open to check for doneness—the flesh should be opaque and firm.

After frying, allow the shrimp to drain on paper towels. This step removes excess oil and keeps them crispy. For added flavor, toss the drained shrimp in a pinch of salt immediately after frying.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your shrimp seem undercooked or not crispy enough, consider adjusting the frying temperature or timing. If the coating falls off during frying, double-check your dredge method. Properly coating the shrimp and ensuring enough buttermilk will help the breadcrumbs adhere better.

Feel free to customize the filling. Instead of shredded cabbage, try using coleslaw or a mix of peppers and onions for a different crunch and flavor profile. Additionally, garnishing with fresh cilantro or slices of jalapeño can kick up the flavor.

Serving and Storing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Serving/presentation

Presentation matters when it comes to these delicious tacos. Serve them on a large platter with lime wedges scattered around. This not only adds color but also makes it easy for guests to squeeze lime juice over their tacos, enhancing the flavor.

For additional flair, use small bowls for the bang bang sauce for guests to dip their tacos as they like. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional slices of avocado for a vibrant appearance.

Pairings/storage

To complement these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, consider serving them with a refreshing cucumber salad or a simple corn salsa. These pairings provide a nice contrast to the tacos and add variety to the meal.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Fried shrimp are best eaten fresh, but you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to help restore their crunchiness if needed.

Creating Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos becomes a delightful venture that fills your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. These tacos combine tender shrimp, spicy sauce, and crisp toppings for an unforgettable dining experience. Dive in confidently, knowing that each bite encases the essence of great cooking and gathering around the table. Enjoy the creative process and the delicious results in every taco you craft!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

Deliciously crispy shrimp tacos complemented by creamy avocado and crunchy cabbage, all drizzled with a spicy bang bang sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Dip the floured shrimp back into the buttermilk and then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat one inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain the fried shrimp on paper towels.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the heat level according to preference.
7. Assemble the tacos: place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla, add fried shrimp, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and top with avocado slices.
8. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Notes

For best results, ensure oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the skillet.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 taco
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: Bang Bang Shrimp, Tacos, Spicy Shrimp, Seafood Tacos