Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fun twist on your regular taco night! These tasty treats are filled with crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. Yum!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a crispy shrimp that packs a punch? I can’t help but pile on the toppings—more crunch and flavor, please! 🥑🌮
Making these tacos is super easy. I whip up the shrimp, stuff them in tortillas, and add my favorite toppings. Dinner is served in no time, and they’re always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are perfect for this dish. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Make sure to peel and devein them before cooking!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give a fantastic crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be as crispy. You could also use crushed cornflakes for an interesting twist!
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the sauce. You can replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based substitute. It helps add creaminess without overpowering flavors.
Cabbage: For the tacos, a mix of green and purple cabbage adds color and crunch. You could use slaw mix or even lettuce if you prefer a softer texture. Adding some diced radishes can also give a nice crunch!
How Do You Get Crispy Shrimp Every Time?
Achieving that perfect crunch on your shrimp is all about the coating and frying technique. Here’s how to ensure your shrimp come out crispy:
- Make sure to pat your shrimp dry before breading; this helps the coating stick better.
- Don’t skip the three-step breading process! It ensures a good layer of crunch.
- Keep your oil at the right temperature (about 350°F). If it’s too cool, the shrimp will soak up oil and become soggy.
- Fry in small batches so that the oil stays hot and the shrimp cooks evenly.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that shine with texture and flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Bang Bang Shrimp Taco
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (mix of green and purple for color)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes putting together the sauce and prepping the shrimp, and another 15-20 minutes cooking and assembling everything. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until everything is smooth and well combined. If you love a kick, feel free to add more sriracha. Set this tasty sauce aside while you get the shrimp ready!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels (this helps them crisp up). In one bowl, mix the flour, paprika, salt, and-black pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Then, place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. You’re all set for breading!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to bread each shrimp! Dip them first into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat them with panko breadcrumbs. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the shrimp to help them stick better.
4. Fry the Shrimp:
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot (around 350°F or 175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp are frying, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave for a few seconds until they are pliable and nice and warm. This will make them much easier to bend without breaking.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla, add a few pieces of those crispy shrimp on top, and then drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce. It’s getting good!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the tacos for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them with lime wedges so everyone can squeeze some extra zest on top if they like. Now it’s time to dig in!
Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with that amazing crunch, creamy spicy sauce, and fresh tangy elements! Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?
If you want to lighten up the sauce or make it dairy-free, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative. Both options will still give you the creaminess you desire while altering the flavor slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp Tacos?
Store any leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp can last about 1-2 days, and the sauce will keep for about a week. Just reheat the shrimp gently when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the sauce and bread the shrimp a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to fry the shrimp just before serving to keep them crispy. Warm the tortillas and assemble right before you’re ready to eat for optimal freshness!