Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Are you ready to bring some excitement to your dinner table? Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos offer bold flavor and crispy textures that will wow your taste buds. In this easy recipe, I’ll guide you through each step, from making the perfect sauce to frying shrimp just right. Whether you’re a cooking newbie or a pro, you’ll enjoy this simple and tasty dish that’s sure to be a hit for any meal!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

To make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you need fresh shrimp and a few key items. Here’s a quick list of what you will need:

– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/4 cup cornstarch

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice)

– Vegetable oil for frying

– 8 small corn tortillas

These ingredients create a crispy and flavorful shrimp that pairs well with the sauce and toppings.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Sauce

The Bang Bang Sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick to the tacos. For the sauce, gather these items:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise

– 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)

– 1 teaspoon lime juice

Mix these together to create a creamy sauce that elevates the dish.

Suggested Toppings

Toppings can make your tacos even better. Here are some great options:

– Shredded cabbage

– Sliced jalapeños

– Chopped cilantro

– Lime wedges

These toppings add crunch, spice, and freshness. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

To make the Bang Bang sauce, grab a small bowl. Add 1/2 cup mayonnaise. Then, mix in 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce. Next, add 1 tablespoon of sriracha. You can adjust this to make it milder or spicier. Finally, squeeze in 1 teaspoon of lime juice. Stir it all together until smooth. Set this delicious sauce aside for later.

Preparing the Shrimp for Cooking

Now let’s prepare the shrimp. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup cornstarch. Add 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. This mix will give the shrimp a tasty crust.

Next, take your shrimp. Dip each one into 1 cup of buttermilk. Let the excess buttermilk drip off. Then, dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated.

Frying the Shrimp to Perfection

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, about 350°F. Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Look for a golden-brown color and a crispy texture. Use a slotted spoon to take the shrimp out. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.

Assembling and Serving the Tacos

Warm your 8 small corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave. This makes them easy to fold. On each tortilla, place a few shrimp. Drizzle on that tasty Bang Bang sauce. Top with shredded cabbage, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for some zesty flavor. Enjoy your Bang Bang shrimp tacos!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Frying Shrimp

To get the best shrimp, use fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Make sure the oil is hot before frying. I heat the oil to about 350°F. This gives a crispy outside and juicy inside. Fry in small batches. This keeps the oil temperature steady. Fry each shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for a golden color. Use a slotted spoon to lift the shrimp out. Place them on a paper towel to absorb extra oil.

How to Make the Sauce Spicier or Milder

To adjust the Bang Bang sauce, start with the basic recipe. If you want more heat, add more sriracha. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper for extra spice. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the sriracha. You can even skip it altogether. The sweet chili sauce adds a nice sweetness, balancing the flavor. Lime juice gives it a fresh touch, so keep that in any version.

Tips for Keeping Tacos Warm

Warm tortillas can make your tacos even better. After warming them, cover them with a clean towel. This keeps the heat in. You can also place them in a low oven, around 200°F, to stay warm. Just be careful not to dry them out. If you have leftover tacos, wrap them tightly in foil. This helps maintain warmth and keeps them fresh.

Variations

Alternative Proteins for the Tacos

You can swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works great in this recipe. Use boneless thighs for juicy bites. Firm fish like mahi-mahi or tilapia also suits this dish well. For a twist, try tofu. It absorbs flavors well and adds a nice texture.

Different Sauce Options

While the Bang Bang sauce is tasty, feel free to get creative. A garlic aioli adds a creamy touch. A spicy chipotle sauce can give it a smoky flavor. You could also use a simple lime crema with yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Experiment and find your favorite!

Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations

You can easily make this dish plant-based. Use cauliflower instead of shrimp. Roast or fry the florets for a crunchy bite. For vegan sauce, mix vegan mayo with sweet chili sauce and sriracha. This keeps the flavor while making it suitable for everyone. Enjoy the fun of cooking!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Shrimp Tacos

To store leftover shrimp tacos, first, remove the shrimp from the tortillas. Place the shrimp in an airtight container. Wrap the tortillas in foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Store both in the fridge for up to two days. This way, you keep the shrimp and tortillas safe from drying out.

Reheating Tips for Maximum Crispiness

When you reheat the shrimp, aim to keep them crispy. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp soggy. For the tortillas, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side.

Storage Guidelines for the Bang Bang Sauce

Store any leftover Bang Bang sauce in a clean jar or container with a lid. Keep it in the fridge for up to one week. If you want to extend its life, avoid mixing in fresh ingredients. Just add those when you serve the tacos. This way, your sauce stays fresh and tasty longer.

FAQs

What type of shrimp is best for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

For Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, I recommend using medium to large shrimp. They offer a good bite and great flavor. Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp works too. Just make sure to thaw them properly. Look for shrimp that is peeled and deveined to save time. The less prep work, the better!

Can I use store-bought sauce for convenience?

Yes, you can use store-bought sauce if you’re short on time. Many brands offer tasty sauces that mimic the homemade version. Just check the ingredients to find one that fits your taste. However, making your own sauce is easy and lets you control the flavor. It can be as spicy or mild as you like!

What are the best sides to serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

I love serving Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with fresh sides. Here are some great options:

– Mexican rice: It adds a nice texture and flavor.

– Black beans: They are hearty and nutritious.

– Guacamole: Creamy and full of flavor.

– Corn salad: A refreshing crunch to balance the tacos.

These sides round out the meal and add color to your plate!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fun way to enjoy shrimp. You learned about the key ingredients, like shrimp and sauce, and how to cook them just right. We covered tips for getting the shrimp crispy and adding spicy sauce. You can even swap proteins or make vegan versions. Remember to store any leftovers properly to keep them tasty. These tacos are easy to make and a sure hit at any meal. Enjoy your cooking adventur