Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) are a delightful blend of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that make them perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive party, these tacos are sure to impress your guests. The unique combination of textures and tastes ensures that every bite is satisfying, bringing a taste of the seaside right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up these tacos in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweetness from the chili sauce and heat from Sriracha makes each taco a flavor bomb.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the toppings and sauces to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These tacos are great for family dinners, game day snacks, or casual get-togethers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves shrimp! These tacos will be a hit with both seafood lovers and newcomers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Tongs
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or Frying Pan: Essential for frying the shrimp to achieve that crispy texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Useful for combining ingredients like buttermilk and spices for marinating.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping shrimp while frying without breaking them.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Necessary for chopping veggies like cabbage and tomatoes.

Ingredients

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 oil 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)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by marinating the shrimp. In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add the peeled shrimp to this mixture. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Once marinated, remove the shrimp from the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each piece in corn starch until fully coated. This will give your shrimp that delicious crunch when fried.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat peanut oil or canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil. Fry them until golden brown on both sides, usually about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In another mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha hot sauce. Stir until well blended. Adjust Sriracha according to your preferred spice level.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm your corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Place fried shrimp in each tortilla. Top with sliced cabbage, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and drizzle generously with Bang Bang sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos warm with extra lime wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor! Enjoy this delectable dish at your next meal—it’s sure to be a favorite!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner, these tacos will surely impress your guests.

With Fresh Garnishes

• Cilantro: Coarsely chopped cilantro adds a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for an extra zing.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the spicy shrimp beautifully.

On a Taco Bar

• DIY Taco Station: Set up a taco bar with all the fixings so everyone can customize their own.
• Variety of Tortillas: Offer both corn tortillas and hard taco shells for different textures.
• Sauce Options: Include extra sauce for those who like it saucy and spicy.

With Unique Accompaniments

• Pickled Red Onions: These add a tangy crunch that can elevate the flavor profile.
• Pineapple Salsa: A sweet and spicy pineapple salsa pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
• Spicy Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a kick can add more texture and flavor to the meal.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

To ensure your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips for making them even more delicious.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best texture and flavor in your tacos.
• Marinate in Buttermilk: Soaking shrimp in buttermilk tenderizes them and enhances the taste.
• Heat Oil to the Right Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying for crispy shrimp.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry shrimp in batches to maintain crispy texture without steaming them.
• Drizzle Sauce Generously: Don’t skimp on the sauce; it’s what makes these tacos special!
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the tacos fresh for optimal crispness and taste.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options that complement the flavors.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This creamy, zesty salad brings a delightful crunch.
2. Guacamole and Chips: Classic pairing that adds creaminess and saltiness to balance the spices.
3. Mango Salsa: A sweet and fruity salsa that brightens up your taco night.
4. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad that adds heartiness to your meal.
5. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: Spicy roasted potatoes offer a satisfying side kick.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad helps cool down any heat from the tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Buttermilk Soak: This step adds flavor and tenderizes the shrimp. Always use buttermilk for the best results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to maintain crispiness.
• Not Draining Excess Oil: Failing to drain fried shrimp can make them soggy. Use paper towels to absorb excess oil after frying.
• Ignoring Sauce Balance: The sauce should be sweet and spicy. Adjust the Sriracha and sweet chili sauce to suit your taste.
• Choosing Wrong Tortillas: Using large flour tortillas can overpower the shrimp. Opt for small corn tortillas for better flavor balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain quality.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat tacos for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and briefly warm each taco for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

What are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)?

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce served in tortillas. They offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different types of slaw. You can also adjust the spiciness of the sauce according to your preference.

What side dishes pair well with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Consider serving them with a fresh salad, rice, or tortilla chips. These sides complement the flavors beautifully.

Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components ahead of time and assemble them quickly when you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different sauces or toppings to suit your taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these tacos will impress everyone at your table!