Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Flavor Explosion for Beginners

Taco night is always a great way to bring people together over a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you are hosting friends or simply looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic option. The combination of crispy shrimp, creamy and spicy bang bang sauce, and fresh toppings creates a dish that is both exciting and easy to prepare.

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This recipe is particularly great for beginner cooks because it requires simple ingredients, basic frying techniques, and minimal prep work. The shrimp cook quickly, making this meal a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the homemade bang bang sauce adds a restaurant-quality touch without the complexity of a professional kitchen.

If you have never fried shrimp before, do not worry. The process is straightforward, and with a few tips, you can achieve perfectly crispy shrimp every time. Additionally, this recipe includes alternative ingredient options, so you can customize it based on what you have on hand.

By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence to prepare these tacos like a pro and impress your family or guests.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Tacos

• 8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
• 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• Lime wedges, for serving

Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives

• Shrimp Alternatives: If you prefer chicken or beef, you can use thinly sliced chicken breast or skirt steak. Simply marinate them in buttermilk for 10 minutes, coat them in cornstarch and seasoning, and pan-fry until golden brown and cooked through.
• Cornstarch Substitute: If you do not have cornstarch, use all-purpose flour or a mixture of flour and a little baking powder to maintain crispiness.
• Sauce Variation: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha or replace it with a mild hot sauce. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you want a lighter version.
• Toppings: Feel free to add diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, avocado, or pickled onions for additional texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp will fry better and achieve a crispy texture.
2. In a bowl, add the shrimp and pour in the buttermilk. Let them soak for about 10 minutes. This step helps tenderize the shrimp and allows the coating to stick better.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika to create the dry coating mixture.

Step 2: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you do not have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small pinch of the cornstarch mixture—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
2. Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, shaking off excess liquid.
3. Coat each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
4. Carefully place shrimp in the hot oil, frying them in batches to prevent overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using) until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust spice levels based on preference. For a creamier sauce, add more mayonnaise. For extra heat, increase the sriracha.
3. Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until they are well-coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side or microwave them for 10-15 seconds until soft.
2. Place a handful of shredded cabbage or lettuce onto each tortilla.
3. Add a few sauce-coated shrimp to each taco.
4. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions.
5. Serve with lime wedges for a burst of citrus flavor.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Tell if Shrimp is Cooked: Shrimp cooks quickly, and you will know it is done when it turns pink and opaque. If overcooked, shrimp can become rubbery, so watch closely.
• Oil Temperature Matters: If the oil is not hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. If too hot, they will burn before cooking through. A kitchen thermometer is helpful, but if you do not have one, test the oil as described in Step 2.
• Batch Frying: Do not overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and results in uneven frying. Cook shrimp in small batches for the best results.
• Prep Ahead: You can make the bang bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos pair well with various sides and accompaniments to create a complete meal. Here are a few recommendations:

• Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy, seasoned rice complements the bold flavors of the tacos.
• Avocado Salad: A simple salad with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime adds freshness.
• Grilled Corn: Serve with elote-style corn topped with cotija cheese and chili powder.
• Black Beans: A side of black beans provides a hearty and nutritious addition.

For a fun twist, try serving these tacos with a mango salsa or a drizzle of extra bang bang sauce for even more flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Shrimp Storage: Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
• Bang Bang Sauce: Keep extra sauce in the fridge for up to a week. It also works great as a dipping sauce for fries or grilled chicken.
• Tortillas: If you have extra tortillas, store them in a sealed bag to keep them from drying out.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a perfect introduction to quick, flavorful, and easy-to-make meals. The balance of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings makes them an instant favorite for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

If you are new to frying, this recipe is an excellent way to gain confidence in the kitchen. The step-by-step approach ensures success, and the flexibility in ingredients allows you to customize the dish to your taste.

Now it is time to give it a try. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and enjoy a plate of delicious homemade tacos. If you make this recipe, share your experience and any creative twists you added. Happy cooking!