Description
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a flavorful and crispy treat featuring fried shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. Served on toasted corn tortillas with fresh shredded cabbage, cilantro, green onions, and a hint of lime, they combine crunchy, tangy, and spicy elements for an irresistible quick meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- Sriracha sauce, to taste
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
Coating and Frying
- 3/4 cup cornstarch
- Canola oil or peanut oil, for frying (2 to 3 inches deep)
Tacos and Garnishes
- 8-12 small white corn tortillas or hard shell tacos
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Lime juice, to taste
- Thinly sliced jalapenos (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, stir together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha sauce to your preferred level of spiciness until smooth and well combined.
- Marinate Shrimp: In a large bowl, mix 1/2 cup buttermilk with 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and stir to coat evenly. Let it marinate briefly while you prepare the oil.
- Heat Oil: Pour 2 to 3 inches of canola or peanut oil into a heavy-bottomed pan and heat over medium heat. Use a digital thermometer to bring the oil temperature to 375°F, ideal for frying.
- Coat Shrimp: Place 3/4 cup cornstarch in a shallow bowl. Using tongs, remove one shrimp at a time from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off, then coat thoroughly in cornstarch on all sides.
- Fry Shrimp: Carefully add shrimp in batches to the hot oil. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn light brown and are cooked through. Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Maintain the oil temperature at 375°F between batches.
- Coat Shrimp in Sauce: Transfer the fried shrimp to a serving bowl and pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Toast Tortillas: Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Toast each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until warmed and slightly crisped.
- Assemble Tacos: Lay tortillas flat, then add a layer of shredded cabbage. Place 2 to 3 sauced shrimp on top. Drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce if desired, and garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, a squeeze of lime juice, and thinly sliced jalapenos if using.
- Serve: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Use a digital thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for perfect frying crispness.
- Adjust Sriracha in the sauce to control spice level according to preference.
- Can substitute hard shell tacos if you prefer a crunchier shell.
- Jalapenos are optional; omit them for a milder taco.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for extra tang.