Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Marinating shrimp in buttermilk provides a delicious base for any seafood dish, especially when assembling tacos. The moment I discovered Bang Bang shrimp tacos, I fell in love with how simple ingredients could create something extraordinary. My family had never been fond of seafood until these tacos made their way to the dinner table.

These Bang Bang shrimp tacos bring a delightful crunch with every bite. The combination of flavors—the sweet, spicy sauce on tender shrimp nestled in warm tortillas—creates a fusion that elevates any weeknight dinner. Preparing this dish always excites my family, reminding us that quick meals can still be packed with flavor.

Wondering how to make these mouthwatering tacos? Just a few steps lead you to crispy shrimp garnished with fresh ingredients. The vibrant colors of the toppings make the dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. With a few ingredients and a bit of cooking time, Bang Bang shrimp tacos can easily become a staple in your home.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: The Recipe

Fundamentals

The key to irresistible Bang Bang shrimp tacos sits in the preparation of the shrimp. Using fresh, large shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined. The buttermilk acts as both a marinade and a tenderizer, resulting in succulent shrimp that absorb delicious flavors. A few spices—salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder—enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making the dish truly special.

Next, the corn starch provides the crunch factor. Coating the marinated shrimp in corn starch before frying gives them that crispy texture everyone loves. This traditional technique keeps the shrimp’s moisture locked inside while allowing a beautiful golden crust to form outside.

Preparation/setup

Ingredients

For these Bang Bang shrimp tacos, grab the following ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 cup corn starch
• Peanut or canola oil (for frying shrimp)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
• 3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)
• 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)

Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience, making the process enjoyable instead of rushed.

Directions

1. Begin by marinating the peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Allow this to marinate for at least 20 minutes; the buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp while enhancing their flavor.
2. In a separate bowl, pour in the corn starch.
3. After 20 minutes, take each shrimp out of the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Toss the shrimp in the corn starch until they are fully coated.
5. Heat peanut or canola oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
6. Carefully add each coated shrimp to the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
7. While the shrimp fry, whip together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a small bowl to create a spicy, creamy sauce.
8. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
9. To serve, place the crispy shrimp on warm tortillas.
10. Top generously with shredded cabbage, diced tomato, and cilantro, then drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce.

Mastering Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Technique

Perfecting the frying technique makes all the difference in achieving crispy Bang Bang shrimp tacos. Maintaining the oil at the right temperature is essential; too hot, and the shrimp will burn before cooking through. Too cool, and the shrimp will soak up excess oil, losing that coveted crunch. Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature or simply drop a small piece of shrimp into the pan to see if it sizzles immediately.

Frying in batches allows for better control. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure that each shrimp fries evenly. Also, consider using a slotted spoon to flip the shrimp, ensuring they cook uniformly.

Tips/tricks

For an extra layer of flavor, add a sprinkling of your favorite spices to the corn starch. This could be an extra pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. You can also experiment with fresh herbs or citrus zest during the marinade.

If you prefer a lighter version, consider baking the shrimp instead of frying them. Coat the shrimp in the corn starch as usual and bake at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.

Perfecting Your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Perfecting results

The secret to perfect Bang Bang shrimp tacos lies in the balance of flavor and texture. Ensure that your sauce complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness without overpowering it. A little Sriracha can go a long way, so always taste as you mix.

Adjust the quantity of cabbage and fresh cilantro according to personal preferences—some love an extra crunch, while others prefer fewer toppings for a richer shrimp taste.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your shrimp aren’t as crispy as you hoped, it may be due to excess moisture. Pat the shrimp dry before marinating to prevent a soggy coating. Additionally, ensure you’re not using old oil; fresh oil guarantees a crisper finish.

For variations, consider adding different toppings like diced avocado or pickled jalapeños. Swapping out the mayo-based sauce for a yogurt-based one introduces a tang that’s equally delightful. You can also try switching the shrimp for crispy fish or chicken to cater to different tastes.

Serving Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Serving/presentation

Presentation elevates these Bang Bang shrimp tacos from simple to spectacular. Arrange the crispy shrimp attractively on the tortillas, ensuring they are overflowing with vibrant toppings. Use flat plates or wooden boards to add a rustic feel, perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Consider adding a wedge of lime on the side to brighten the flavors when serving. A sprinkling of extra cilantro can tie everything together visually and flavor-wise.

Pairings/storage

Pair these tacos with a fresh side of chips and guacamole for an unbeatable meal experience. They can also be served alongside a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the shrimp.

For storage, store leftover shrimp and toppings separately in airtight containers to maintain the freshness and crunch. The shrimp can last up to three days in the refrigerator, while the toppings should be used within two days to prevent sogginess.

Creating Bang Bang shrimp tacos transforms a simple meal into something unforgettable. Focusing on quality ingredients and preparation can make a weeknight dinner a delightful culinary experience. With every bite, you’ll appreciate the balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy the process and dive into the unique flavors. Happy cooking!

Print