Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos feature crispy, perfectly seasoned shrimp coated in a crunchy panko crust and tossed in a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce. Served on soft flour tortillas with shredded cabbage and creamy avocado slices, these tacos deliver a delightful crunch and a kick of heat, making them an irresistible main course perfect for any taco night or casual dinner.
- Author: Nethan
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 tacos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
Taco Assembly
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Soak the Shrimp: In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to tenderize and add flavor.
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoned coating.
- Dredge the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour.
- Apply the Panko Crust: Dip the floured shrimp back into the buttermilk briefly, then press gently into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain cooked shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Adjust the sriracha amount to control spice level.
- Assemble the Tacos: Lay a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla, top with several fried shrimp, drizzle generously with bang bang sauce, and add avocado slices.
- Serve: Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos just before eating.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add sliced radishes or pickled jalapeños on top of the tacos.
- Substitute shrimp with crispy tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Keywords: Bang Bang Shrimp, Shrimp Tacos, Crispy Shrimp, Spicy Shrimp Tacos, Mexican Tacos, Fried Shrimp Recipe, Easy Taco Recipe