Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos combine crispy, golden shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce with a refreshing slaw, all wrapped in soft tortillas. This dish is a fiesta for the senses with its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress at a casual gathering or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, these tacos are a must-try. In this article, you’ll find a detailed and step-by-step recipe that makes it easy to whip up this delightful dish in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos apart is their effortless preparation and crowd-pleasing nature. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in about 30 minutes. With minimal ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. The combination of juicy, crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and zesty slaw is something your entire family will love. Plus, these tacos are versatile enough to serve at casual family dinners, celebratory gatherings, or even cozy date nights. Get ready for the rave reviews!

Ingredients

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender and succulent, each bite offers a juicy pop.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Creamy and tangy, this ensures the shrimp remain moist.
• 3/4 cup cornstarch: Provides that coveted crunch.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: For a light and crispy coating.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor harmoniously.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat.
• 1/4 tsp paprika: For a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color.
• About 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying): Essential for achieving that perfect golden brown crust.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, forming the base of the zesty sauce.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Brings sweetness and a mild kick.
• 2 tbsp sriracha (or more to taste): Packs a punch for those who love heat!
• 1 tbsp honey (optional): If you prefer a touch of extra sweetness.
• 2 cups shredded green and purple cabbage: Adds crunch and a pop of color.
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots: Sweet and vibrant, enhancing the slaw.
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Adds the needed acidity to balance flavors.
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise: For the slaw, making it creamy and delicious.
• 1 tbsp honey: To sweeten the slaw as desired.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings for a well-rounded flavor.
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas: Soft and warm, holding all the goodness together.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped: Provides freshness and color.
• Lime wedges, for serving: Brightens every bite with a fresh squeeze.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start with the Shrimp: Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for about 15 minutes. This not only tenderizes the shrimp but also helps the coating adhere better.

2. Make the Sauce: While the shrimp is soaking, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using) in a bowl. Stir well until combined and chill in the refrigerator.

3. Prepare the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, mayonnaise, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the cabbage and carrots, mix well, and let it chill in the fridge.

4. Create the Coating: In another bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. This mix will give your shrimp that lovely crunch.

5. Coat the Shrimp: After soaking, remove the shrimp and dredge them in the cornstarch and flour mixture until well coated.

6. Fry the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the shrimp in batches to the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

7. Toss in Sauce: While the shrimp is still hot, toss it in the chilled sauce until well coated and set aside.

8. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Start with a layer of slaw, then pile on the saucy shrimp. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for that zesty finish.

Tips & Tricks

• Extra Crispy Shrimp: For even more crunch, double dip the shrimp by soaking them in buttermilk, coating them, then dipping them again in a second layer of the cornstarch mixture before frying.
• Customize Your Spice: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to cater to your heat preference—add more for a spicier kick!
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the slaw and sauce ahead of time for easy assembly during busy nights.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are best served warm, alongside a light avocado salad or some pineapple salsa. The freshness of the slaw complements the shrimp beautifully, making it a great option for a summer BBQ or a casual dinner party. Consider offering sides like tortilla chips with guacamole or a refreshing fruit salad to round out the meal!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (assuming two tacos) contains approximately 400-500 calories. The dish offers a good balance of protein from the shrimp, healthy fats from the mayonnaise, and plenty of vitamins and fiber from the fresh vegetables. As with any recipe, moderation is key, so enjoy these tacos as part of a balanced diet!

Storing Tips & Variations

To store, keep any leftover shrimp and slaw in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Recrisp the shrimp in an air fryer or hot skillet to rejuvenate them before serving. You can also freeze the shrimp before frying; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. For variations, consider using chicken in place of shrimp, or try a variety of slaws by adding different vegetables like radishes or bell peppers.

Conclusion

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only a treat for your taste buds but also an easy and fun dish to share with family and friends. With their enticing flavors and crunchy textures, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and try out this delightful recipe! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes! Just ensure that the shrimp are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before starting the recipe.

2. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
   If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice as a quick substitute.

3. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
   While the shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the slaw and sauce in advance for quicker assembly later.

4. What is the best way to heat the tortillas?
   Warming the tortillas in a dry skillet or on a grill helps to keep them pliable and enhances their flavor.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   To make gluten-free Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.