Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: 1 Easy Spicy Recipe

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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos have become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying meal. I remember the first time I tried them at a local spot – that incredible blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce coating perfectly crispy shrimp was a revelation! Now, I’ve perfected my own version, making these Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a regular feature in my recipe rotation. This Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe is so straightforward; seriously, you’ll be amazed at how restaurant-quality flavors can come from your own kitchen. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

These tacos are a guaranteed hit, and here’s why:

• The flavor is incredible – a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy.
• They’re surprisingly quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• You get that satisfyingly crispy shrimp texture.
• The creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos sauce is absolutely addictive.
• They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, flavorful dinner without breaking the bank.
• The whole family will love these, making them a great option for everyone.
• You can customize the spice level to your liking for truly personalized creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
• It’s a vibrant and fun meal that feels like a special treat.

Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Ingredients

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making the best Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. You’ll need about 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; make sure they’re nice and dry before coating. For the crispy coating, we have 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch for extra crispiness, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. You’ll also need 1 large egg, beaten, and 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch. Don’t forget vegetable oil, for frying. For the star of the show, the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos sauce, you’ll need 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more if you love it spicy!), 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce. Finally, grab 8 small flour tortillas, some shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix, fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish, and lime wedges, for serving.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Creating these amazing tacos is easier than you think! My favorite part is whipping up the signature sauce first, which really lets the flavors meld. Let’s dive into this delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe.

1. Step 1: First, let’s make that irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more if you’re feeling bold!), 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce. Mix until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. Set this flavor powerhouse aside.
2. Step 2: Now, let’s prep the shrimp for their crispy coating. Grab three shallow dishes. In the first, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This seasoned flour mix is key for that perfect crust.
3. Step 3: In the second dish, lightly beat 1 large egg. In the third dish, pour out 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs.
4. Step 4: Take your 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, and working with a few at a time, dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. Step 5: Next, dip the floured shrimp into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off.
6. Step 6: Finally, press the shrimp into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure they are completely covered for maximum crunch. This step makes these homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos truly special.
7. Step 7: Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You want the oil nice and hot for that perfect fry!
8. Step 8: Carefully place the breaded shrimp into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are a beautiful golden brown and cooked through. The smell is amazing!
9. Step 9: Use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy shrimp from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
10. Step 10: While the shrimp are draining, warm your 8 small flour tortillas according to package directions.
11. Step 11: Now for the magic! Toss the warm, crispy shrimp directly into the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos sauce you made earlier. Gently stir until every piece is coated in that delicious, creamy goodness.
12. Step 12: Assemble your tacos by filling each warm tortilla with a generous amount of shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix, followed by the sauced shrimp. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve immediately with lime wedges for that extra zing. Enjoy your incredible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Want to elevate your tacos from great to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference.

• Make sure your shrimp are completely dry before dredging them in the flour mixture. This helps the coating stick better for extra crispy results.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan! Frying in batches ensures the shrimp cook evenly and stay crispy, rather than steaming.
• Taste and adjust the Bang Bang sauce before coating the shrimp. You can always add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness.

What’s the secret to perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The secret to truly perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos lies in the triple coating for the shrimp – flour, egg, then panko. This creates that irresistible crunch that holds up beautifully to the creamy sauce. For more insights on achieving the perfect crispy coating, you can check out my tips on achieving culinary perfection.

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and chop your toppings a day in advance. However, I recommend frying the shrimp just before serving for the crispiest texture possible. For more information on food preparation and storage, consult our guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

A common mistake is overcrowding the pan, which leads to soggy shrimp. Also, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) before frying. Lastly, don’t skip patting the shrimp dry! Understanding cooking temperatures is crucial, and you can find more details on our terms of use regarding cooking advice.

Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

These tacos are so versatile, you can serve them up for a casual weeknight dinner or even a fun get-together. One of my favorite ways is to pair them with a crisp, refreshing slaw. The cool crunch of the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with slaw is the perfect counterpoint to the warm, saucy shrimp. You could also serve them alongside some seasoned black beans or a simple cilantro-lime rice for a more complete meal. For a lighter option, a side of fresh corn salsa or grilled avocado slices works beautifully. You can find more serving suggestions on our homepage.

Nutrition Facts for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Per serving (this recipe makes 4 servings, with 2 tacos each):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on how we calculate nutrition, please see our affiliate disclaimer.

How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are still delicious, making them perfect for planning Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for dinner later in the week. Once cooled completely, store any leftover sauced shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the sauced shrimp for up to 3 months; just make sure to transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. For reheating, I prefer to gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat until just heated through, being careful not to overcook them. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer at a low temperature for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp a bit rubbery. If you have any questions about storage, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

How to make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos easily?

Making these tacos is surprisingly simple! The key is preparing the sauce first and then breading the shrimp. Once fried, coat them in the sauce and assemble. It’s a straightforward process that results in incredibly flavorful tacos.

What are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

These popular tacos feature crispy, fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce, often called “Bang Bang sauce.” They are typically served in warm tortillas with toppings like shredded cabbage and cilantro, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Can I use a different type of shrimp for these tacos?

While larger shrimp work best for frying and holding their shape, you can certainly use smaller shrimp if needed. Just adjust the frying time accordingly, as they’ll cook a bit faster. You can also use pre-cooked shrimp and warm them gently in the sauce.

What goes well with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos besides slaw?

Many things complement these tacos beautifully! Consider serving them with a side of black beans, cilantro-lime rice, or even a fresh corn and avocado salsa. A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette also works wonderfully to balance the richness of the tacos.

Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos You Can Try

While the classic fried version is amazing, I love experimenting with different ways to enjoy these flavors. If you’re looking for healthier options, try making Air fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Simply coat your shrimp as directed and air fry at 390°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For a similar crispy texture without the oil, Oven baked Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are also fantastic; arrange the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping once. You can also swap the shrimp for firm tofu or cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian twist, or even serve everything over rice or quinoa for a flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp Taco bowl.

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