Why You’ll Love It
- Easy to Make: This recipe is quick and straightforward, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
- Flavorful: The combination of spicy bang bang sauce, crispy shrimp, and crunchy cabbage is unbeatable.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 8 tacos
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup cornstarch
- Canola oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- Sriracha sauce to taste
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
For the Tacos
- 8-12 small white corn tortillas
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Lime juice
- Thinly sliced jalapenos (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Add honey if you prefer it sweeter.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Combine buttermilk, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl. Add the shrimp and stir to coat.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into cornstarch, shaking off excess.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a pan to 375°F. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm tortillas lightly. Fill each with cabbage, a few shrimp, and drizzle with bang bang sauce. Top with cilantro, green onions, and lime juice.
Serving Suggestions
- Add Crunchy Slaw: Mix shredded cabbage with a squeeze of lime juice and chopped cilantro for extra freshness.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapenos or sliced hot peppers for an extra kick.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh cilantro or parsley for added flavor.
Tips for Customization
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to suit your taste.
- Sweetness: Add a bit of honey or maple syrup to balance out the heat.
- Protein Swap: Try using chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Taco)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
FAQs
Q: Can I make the shrimp in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can air fry the shrimp for a healthier option. Simply coat the shrimp as instructed and air fry at 390°F for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: How do I store leftover bang bang sauce?
A: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can use it as a dip or in other recipes.
Q: Can I use gluten-free ingredients?
A: Yes, you can substitute gluten-containing ingredients with gluten-free alternatives, such as using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the sauce.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, offering a mix of spicy, sweet, and crunchy textures that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the flavorful ride!
