The aroma of freshly fried shrimp fills my kitchen, transporting me to vibrant beachside shacks where the best taco flavors come alive. Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, often referred to as Dynamite Shrimp, bring together crispy shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce that’s irresistible. This recipe isn’t just a crowd-pleaser; it’s a fun, customizable dish perfect for a cozy night in or your next gathering with friends. With quick prep time and fresh ingredients, you’ll find that these tacos can easily become a go-to favorite. Curious about how to take your taco night to a whole new level? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why Choose Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Flavorful Fusion: The marriage of crispy shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce creates a taste sensation that’s both bold and comforting.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip this up for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, leaving more time for fun!
Customizable Delight: These tacos are fully adaptable—swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, and add your favorite toppings like avocado or jalapeños for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Guaranteed to impress family and friends, they’re perfect for taco nights or casual get-togethers, just like Mexican Street Tacos.
Perfectly Crisp: Achieve that sought-after crunch by frying the shrimp just right, ensuring every bite delivers a satisfying texture.
Get ready to enjoy flavorful bites that are sure to become a staple!
Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend for your tacos!
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – The star ingredient; fresh shrimp delivers a rich seafood flavor. Substitute with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Buttermilk – Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the shrimp; if unavailable, mix milk with vinegar as a substitute.
- Cornstarch – Essential for a crispy coating while frying; rice flour works as a gluten-free alternative.
- Peanut Oil/Canola Oil – Perfect for frying due to its high smoke point; vegetable oil can be used if preferred.
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce, enhancing flavor; Greek yogurt makes a lighter alternative.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and balance in the sauce; honey or agave with chili flakes can be a great alternative.
- Sriracha – Brings heat to the sauce; alter the amount based on your spice preference, or use your favorite hot sauce instead.
For the Tacos
- Tortillas – Warm wraps for the tacos; opt for soft corn or flour tortillas, or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch and freshness to the mix; coleslaw or other salad greens can work too.
- Diced Tomatoes – Infuse juiciness and acidity; canned tomatoes can fill in when fresh ones aren’t available.
- Chopped Cilantro – Brightens the dish; omitting it is fine for those who prefer not to have it.
With these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a delicious and customizable meal that’ll have everyone coming back for more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)
Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
Begin by marinating 1 pound of shrimp in a bowl with 1 cup of buttermilk, seasoned with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Let the shrimp soak for about 15 minutes, allowing the buttermilk to tenderize and flavor the shrimp beautifully. This step ensures each bite of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is juicy and full of flavor.
Step 2: Coat Shrimp
After marinating, dredge the shrimp in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This coating is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture once fried. Toss the shrimp well, shaking off any excess cornstarch before moving on to fry. Your shrimp are now ready for a golden transformation in the frying pan.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat peanut oil or canola oil to about 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of cornstarch; it should sizzle immediately. Maintaining the right temperature is essential for making crispy Bang Bang Shrimp, avoiding uneven cooking or sogginess.
Step 4: Fry Shrimp
Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are crispy. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil. This step will guarantee a delightful crunch in every taco.
Step 5: Make Bang Bang Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, mix together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, and 2 teaspoons of Sriracha in a small bowl. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy, adjusting the amount of Sriracha according to your spice preference. This sauce is the flavorful crown jewel of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Step 6: Assemble Tacos
Warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave them for a few seconds until pliable. Start layering by adding shredded cabbage and diced tomatoes onto each tortilla, followed by the crispy shrimp. Drizzle a generous amount of the Bang Bang sauce over the top, finishing with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor in each taco.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. Consider adding extra lime wedges and more Bang Bang sauce on the side for those who crave a bit more heat and flavor. Your taste buds are in for a treat with each mouthwatering bite!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Dive into a delightful spread that elevates your taco night to a whole new level!
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and zesty, this flavorful rice complements the spicy shrimp while adding vibrant color to your meal.
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Black Beans: Creamy and hearty, black beans provide a wholesome counterbalance to the crunchy tacos, offering added protein and fiber. A sprinkle of lime juice really brings them to life!
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Corn Salsa: Sweet and crunchy, corn salsa adds a fresh crunch that enhances the flavors of the tacos. The sweet corn pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce, creating a delightful contrast.
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Guacamole: Rich and creamy, this avocado dip adds a smooth texture and cooling effect, perfectly balancing the spicy Bang Bang sauce. Plus, who doesn’t love a good dip?
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Margaritas: For a boozy twist, serve classic margaritas on the rocks. The citrusy notes lift the flavors of the shrimp and provide a refreshing drink option.
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Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, cinnamon-sugar churros. Their crispy exterior and soft interior provide a delightful texture that makes for a perfect dessert after your spicy tacos.
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Pineapple Slaw: Sweet, crunchy, and tangy, pineapple slaw offers a refreshing bite that brightens each taco. The fruitiness pairs harmoniously with the shrimp and adds a cheerful twist.
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Ice-cold Beer: A crisp lager or pale ale cuts through the richness of the shrimp tacos, making it an enjoyable pairing for a casual night in.
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Spicy Pickled Veggies: A tangy element like pickled jalapeños or carrots can add an unexpected zing that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Enjoy the delightful contrasts in each bite!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake shrimp in an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or sauté in a skillet with a bit of oil until crispy again. Avoid reheating assembled tacos to keep tortillas from becoming soggy.
Airtight Containers: Always store the shrimp and toppings separately in airtight containers to preserve texture and flavor for your next delicious meal!
Make Ahead Options
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk (1 cup, seasoned) up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to intensify. The crispy coating can be prepared by dredging the shrimp in cornstarch a few hours before frying; just refrigerate until ready to cook. Additionally, you can whip up the Bang Bang sauce (½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, and 2 teaspoons Sriracha) up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, fry the shrimp and assemble the tacos for a quick and delicious meal that’s just as delightful as when made fresh!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Perfect Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F to achieve that crispy shrimp texture without sogginess. A drop of cornstarch should sizzle immediately.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches to allow even cooking and a perfectly crispy exterior. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
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Customize Sauce Heat: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in your Bang Bang sauce according to your spice preference. Add gradually to find your perfect balance!
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Fresh Toppings: Enhance flavor by adding fresh toppings like avocado, radishes, or lime juice. These ingredients offer refreshing contrasts to the crispy shrimp.
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Proper Storage: Store leftover shrimp and toppings separately in airtight containers to maintain crispness. This helps keep your flavors fresh for the next meal!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with these exciting variations that will delight your taste buds!
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Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, tempeh, or even crispy tofu for a delicious twist.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for those who crave more spice.
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Creamy Alternative: Replace mayonnaise with avocado or a creamy tahini dressing for a dairy-free and delicious option.
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Crunch Factor: Add crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips on top for an extra crunch that elevates each bite.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or mint in place of cilantro for an unexpected flavor boost.
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate fresh mango or pineapple salsa as a topping to bring a sweet contrast to the spicy shrimp.
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Low-Carb Delight: Use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a refreshing, low-carb alternative that’s still packed with flavor.
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Swap the Sauce: Try different sauces like chipotle mayo or ranch to create a new flavor profile that’s uniquely yours.
With endless possibilities, your taco night will be anything but boring! For a tailored experience, consider adding on some sides, like Mexican Street Tacos or a unique twist on Bang Bang Salmon. Enjoy the journey of flavor!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen shrimp are both great options. I recommend using large or extra-large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thoroughly thaw them before marinating, as this ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
After enjoying your tacos, store any leftovers in separate airtight containers. The shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; however, for the best taste and texture, it’s best to consume them fresh. If you have a lot leftover, consider freezing the shrimp for up to 3 months. Just remember to store the toppings separately to keep them fresh!
Can I freeze the cooked shrimp for the tacos?
Yes, you can! To freeze your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp, first allow the fried shrimp to cool completely. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Finally, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or a skillet until crispy.
What if my shrimp turn out soggy while frying?
Very! If you find that your shrimp are soggy, the likely culprit is that the oil was not hot enough during frying. Make sure your oil is around 350°F (175°C) before adding the shrimp. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and lead to unevenly cooked shrimp. If you want to regain crispiness after frying, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to help crisp up again.
Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Definitely! If you’re preparing these tacos for guests or family with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize the recipe. For gluten-free options, substitute cornstarch with rice flour or another gluten-free mix. Additionally, for dairy-free needs, use a dairy-free mayonnaise in your Bang Bang sauce. If you have guests with seafood allergies, chicken or tofu can be a delicious alternative!
Can I adjust the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Start with a small amount of Sriracha when preparing your Bang Bang sauce and gradually add more to suit your taste. If you want to keep it mild, you can even replace Sriracha with a milder hot sauce or omit it entirely. Enjoy the magic of customizing your taste experience!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Crispy Flavor Explosion at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk and seasonings for 15 minutes.
- Dredge the shrimp in cornstarch and shake off excess.
- Heat oil to 350°F in a deep skillet.
- Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to make Bang Bang sauce.
- Assemble tacos: warm tortillas, add cabbage, tomatoes, shrimp, and sauce.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges and extra sauce on the side.
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