Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) are a delightful fusion of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors. These tacos are perfect for casual dinners, festive gatherings, or taco nights with friends and family. The standout qualities of this dish lie in the crispy shrimp and the iconic bang bang sauce that elevates every bite. Serve them up for any occasion, and they’re sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The frying process creates a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha delivers a delightful kick in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these tasty tacos.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them in corn tortillas or hard taco shells, making them suitable for all preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, family dinners, or even meal prep throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos requires some essential kitchen tools to achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients for the shrimp coating and the bang bang sauce.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: These tools ensure even cooking and crispiness when frying the shrimp.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing shrimp from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain off.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Shrimp

• 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 oil or Canola oil for frying shrimp

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
• 3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)

For Assembly

• 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)

Servings: 8
Prep Time: PT30M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT45M
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 362 kcal, Protein: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 30 g, Fat: 21 g
Categories: Main Course

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by soaking the peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk. This will help tenderize them. In a separate bowl, combine salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and corn starch.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Remove each shrimp from the buttermilk and dredge it in the seasoned corn starch mixture. Ensure they are evenly coated for that perfect crunch.

Step 3: Heat Oil for Frying

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat your choice of peanut or canola oil over medium-high heat until hot enough for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Carefully add coated shrimp to the hot oil. Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown and crispy—about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth. Adjust spice levels according to your taste preference.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Place a layer of shredded cabbage on each tortilla followed by crispy shrimp. Drizzle with bang bang sauce and top with diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner, here are some serving suggestions that elevate this dish.

With Fresh Slaw

• A crunchy slaw made with purple or green cabbage adds texture and freshness to your tacos, balancing the creamy shrimp.

Top with Avocado

• Sliced or mashed avocado brings a rich, creamy element that complements the spicy Bang Bang sauce perfectly.

Drizzled with Extra Sauce

• For those who love a kick, an extra drizzle of the Bang Bang sauce on top enhances the flavor and adds moisture to each bite.

Serve with Lime Wedges

• Lime wedges provide a zesty squeeze that brightens up the dish, making every bite more refreshing and vibrant.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds color but also gives a burst of herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Perfecting your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos takes just a few tips. Follow these for crispy shrimp and flavorful results.

• Use Cold Buttermilk: Cold buttermilk helps create a crispy coating when frying. It ensures that the batter adheres well to the shrimp.

• Ensure Oil is Hot: Before frying, check that your oil is at the right temperature. This prevents greasy shrimp and promotes even cooking.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to avoid steaming the shrimp. This helps achieve that desired crispiness.

• Adjust Spice Level: Customize your Sriracha amount based on your heat preference. Start small for mild tacos, then add more for extra spice.

• Warm Your Tortillas: Heating corn tortillas briefly ensures they are pliable and enhances their flavor when filled with shrimp.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Chili Lime Rice: A flavorful rice dish seasoned with lime juice and chili powder that complements the tacos well.

2. Grilled Street Corn: Sweet corn grilled to perfection with cotija cheese and lime offers a perfect sweet contrast.

3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad featuring black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing adds protein and zest to your meal.

4. Mango Salsa: This sweet and tangy salsa made from fresh mangoes provides a delightful contrast to the spicy tacos.

5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings rich flavors which balance out the spices of the tacos beautifully.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Seasoned roasted sweet potatoes offer a hearty side that pairs nicely with seafood dishes like these tacos.

7. Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad made with cucumbers and vinegar is perfect for cleansing the palate between bites.

8. Tortilla Chips with Salsa Verde: Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside tangy salsa verde make for an excellent appetizer before diving into the main event.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect tacos.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery. Monitor cooking time closely, and remove them from heat once they turn pink.
• Skipping the buttermilk: This ingredient helps tenderize the shrimp and adds flavor. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for achieving that crispy texture.
• Using too much oil: While frying, use just enough oil to submerge the shrimp. Too much oil can make your tacos greasy and heavy.
• Neglecting seasoning: A well-seasoned shrimp is crucial for great flavor. Make sure to season the buttermilk and cornstarch mixture adequately before coating.
• Ignoring toppings: Fresh toppings like cabbage and cilantro add crunch and freshness to your tacos. Don’t forget them; they balance out the richness of the shrimp.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
• Keep components separate (shrimp, tortillas, toppings) if possible to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Don’t freeze assembled tacos; rather, freeze components separately.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes. This method may make the shrimp less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are made with crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. They’re served in corn tortillas with fresh toppings.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

You can customize by adding ingredients like avocado, mango salsa, or different types of slaw for added flavor and texture.

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free cornstarch and check that your tortillas are gluten-free as well.

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha you use in the sauce. Adjust it according to your taste preference.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different twist while keeping the same delicious flavors.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a perfect blend of crispy textures and rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces for an even more personalized meal experience!