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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)
The thrill of the first bite of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos never fades. Memories of summer picnics and coastal breezes often come to mind when making these delicious tacos. The spicy sweetness of the sauce combined with the crispy shrimp always brings people together. Each taco feels like a celebration of flavors wrapped in small corn tortillas, creating that perfect balance of zest and heartiness.
These tacos have a way of transporting taste buds straight to the beach. The use of creamy mayonnaise and the kick from Sriracha flawlessly complements the crunchiness of golden-fried shrimp. Whether it’s a casual dinner on a weeknight or the highlight of a lively gathering, Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos bring vibrancy to any table.
The ease of preparation makes it possible to create a wholesome meal in no time. Juicy shrimp paired with fresh veggies wrapped in warm tortillas offer an enticing sensory experience. It’s all about flavor and fun when you serve these tacos, making them a go-to recipe for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Fundamentals
Bang Bang Shrimp are known for their crispy texture and delectable flavor. To achieve that irresistible crunch, the shrimp undergo a careful preparation process. The choice of large shrimp, peeled and deveined, ensures a meaty bite that stands up to the frying process. This dish relies on the art of battering and frying to create that perfect shell.
Preparation/setup
Preparing for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos starts with gathering the necessary ingredients. Set up your kitchen workstation with shrimp, spices, buttermilk, and frying oil close by. Make sure you have ample space for frying, since the shrimp need enough room for even cooking.
Arrange the corn tortillas or taco shells nearby to create an efficient workflow. You can also prepare the toppings—thinly sliced cabbage, diced tomato, and chopped cilantro—so they’re at hand when the shrimp come hot out of the frying pan.
Ingredients
For these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 cup corn starch
- Peanut or canola oil (for frying shrimp)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
- 3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)
- 8 to 12 small white corn tortillas (or hard taco shells)
- 3 cups purple or green cabbage (thinly sliced)
- 1 medium tomato (diced)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (coarsely chopped)
Directions
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Begin by marinating the peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Allow this to marinate for at least 20 minutes; the buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp while enhancing their flavor.
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In a separate bowl, pour in the corn starch. Once the shrimp have marinated, take each shrimp out of the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and toss in the corn starch until fully coated.
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Heat peanut or canola oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add each coated shrimp to the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
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While the shrimp fry, whip together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a small bowl to create a spicy, creamy sauce that will top your tacos. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
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To serve, place the crispy shrimp on warm tortillas. Top generously with shredded cabbage, diced tomato, and cilantro, then drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce.
Technique
Attempting to create Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos means embracing frying as a cooking method. Ensuring the oil is adequately heated before introducing shrimp plays a critical role in achieving that crunchy coating. This allows the shrimp to cook quickly, sealing in the moisture while providing that irresistible golden crust.
Using a thermometer can aid in monitoring oil temperature. Aim for around 350°F to 375°F for optimal frying conditions. Keeping a consistent oil temperature prevents the shrimp from becoming greasy and ensures they fry rather than steam.
Tips/tricks
To enhance flavor, consider adding extra spices to the corn starch coating. A dash of paprika or cayenne pepper can kick up the heat. For a lighter option, try baking the shrimp on a parchment-lined tray—just remember to turn them halfway through cooking to mimic the crispness achieved through frying.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, experimenting with firm tofu instead of shrimp creates a fantastic alternative for these tacos. Preparing the tofu similarly by coating it in buttermilk and corn starch works wonders.
Perfecting results
For perfectly cooked shrimp, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Frying in batches guarantees each shrimp receives plenty of direct heat, allowing for that crisp exterior. If you notice the shrimp starting to darken too quickly, lower the heat to allow them to cook through without burning.
Timing is crucial when frying. Pay attention not to exceed the cooking time, as overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and lose their enjoyable texture.
Troubleshooting/variations
If the coating falls off while frying, ensure that the shrimp are well-coated in buttermilk before dredging them in corn starch. Allowing them to rest briefly between dipping in the buttermilk and the corn starch can help adhere the coating better.
For those looking to vary the recipe, consider adding various toppings. Fresh avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime can bring new dimensions to the taste profile of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Serving/presentation
Presentation plays a vital role in elevating your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Arrange the tacos on a large platter, garnishing with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an eye-catching look. The contrast of colors with vibrant shrimp, fresh veggies, and creamy sauces beautifully showcases these tasty morsels.
Offering the Bang Bang sauce on the side allows guests to customize the heat level to their liking. Include small bowls filled with additional toppings such as pico de gallo or radish for added flair.
Pairings/storage
Pair Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with a simple side of rice or a fresh salad to balance the meal. The crunch of the tortillas complements a tangy coleslaw wonderfully.
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, consider using an air fryer to restore the crispiness without the need for additional oil.
This dish holds the power to ignite joyful conversations at any gathering, bringing people together through its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation.
Print
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Crispy shrimp coated in a spicy, creamy sauce wrapped in warm corn tortillas, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 cup corn starch
- Peanut or canola oil (for frying shrimp)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
- 3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)
- 8 to 12 small white corn tortillas (or hard taco shells)
- 3 cups purple or green cabbage (thinly sliced)
- 1 medium tomato (diced)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (coarsely chopped)
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp in buttermilk with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder for at least 20 minutes.
- Coat each shrimp in corn starch after removing excess buttermilk.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to create the sauce.
- Serve the crispy shrimp on tortillas, topped with cabbage, tomato, cilantro, and drizzle with Bang Bang sauce.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with firm tofu, preparing it similarly.
