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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 53 reviews
  • Author: Bara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Tacos
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American Fusion

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Toast Tortillas: Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Toast each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until warmed and slightly crisped.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.