Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a tantalizing twist on a classic favorite, filled with crispy fried shrimp and drizzled in a spicy, creamy sauce. These taco creations combine a delightful interplay of textures and flavors that make them an instant hit for casual weeknight dinners or lively gatherings. Perfectly suited for taco nights and summer barbecues, every bite bursts with a satisfying crunch followed by a zing of flavor that you won’t be able to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe stands out for a myriad of reasons. First, it harmoniously balances crunch and creaminess with just the right kick, making it a go-to choice for both adults and kids alike. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can whip it up in under an hour! Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a spontaneous dinner with friends, Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are versatile enough to elevate any occasion. They’re great for family meals or as a crowd-pleaser at parties. As one satisfied home chef put it:
"Honestly, this has become our family’s favorite taco recipe! The shrimp are so crunchy, and that bang bang sauce is just the right amount of spicy!"
Step-by-Step Overview
Preparing these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a straightforward yet rewarding experience. You’ll start with marinating the shrimp, then move on to measuring out your ingredients and frying the shrimp to golden perfection. The preparation flows easily from marinating to frying, followed by assembling and serving the tacos. Each step builds anticipation as your kitchen fills with enticing aromas, so let’s dive into the specifics!
What You’ll Need
For this recipe, gathering the following ingredients will set you on the path to taco perfection:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Corn tortillas
- Lettuce and other taco toppings of choice
Feel free to get creative! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute with milk and vinegar.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by soaking the cleaned shrimp in buttermilk for about 30 minutes. This will tenderize the shrimp and add great flavor.
- While the shrimp soaks, mix cornstarch with salt and pepper in another bowl. This will create a crispy crust for our shrimp.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, dredge the shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, then gently fry in the hot oil until they’re golden and crispy—about 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and garlic powder to create the bang bang sauce.
- Warm your corn tortillas and fill them with the delicious fried shrimp. Drizzle generously with that creamy bang bang sauce.
- Top with lettuce and any other toppings you desire, such as diced tomatoes, onions, or avocado. Serve immediately for the best experience!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To take your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos over the top, consider adding a side of cilantro-lime rice or a fresh mango salsa. A lime wedge on the side offers a burst of freshness, while pickled jalapeños add an extra layer of heat. Arrange your tacos on a colorful platter to make that taco night even more inviting!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover shrimp (though it’s hard to imagine!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture may change when reheated. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through to help maintain their crispiness.
Pro Chef Tips
- To ensure extra crispy shrimp, double-dip them in the buttermilk and cornstarch.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and cause sogginess.
- If spicy isn’t your thing, you can adjust the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to create a milder version.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? You can swap the shrimp for crispy tofu for a delicious vegan version, or try adding different spices to the cornstarch mixture, such as paprika or cayenne, for an extra kick. Experimenting with toppings like avocado or grilled corn can also enhance your taco experience.
Your Questions Answered
- How long does it take to prepare this recipe? This takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for dinner.
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating.
- What are some good substitutions? You can easily substitute buttermilk with regular milk, and use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
With these steps, you’re well-equipped to create a delightful batch of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that will impress your family and friends alike! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfy your taco cravings at home!
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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A tantalizing twist on a classic favorite, filled with crispy fried shrimp and drizzled in a spicy, creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Corn tortillas
- Lettuce and other taco toppings of choice
Instructions
- Soak the cleaned shrimp in buttermilk for about 30 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch with salt and pepper in another bowl.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
- Dredge the shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, then fry in the hot oil until golden and crispy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and garlic powder in a separate bowl to make the bang bang sauce.
- Warm corn tortillas and fill with fried shrimp, drizzling generously with bang bang sauce.
- Top with lettuce and any other desired toppings, and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy shrimp, double-dip in the buttermilk and cornstarch. Adjust sriracha for milder sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican