If you love tacos with a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and crunchy, you’re in for a real treat with this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe. Imagine crispy, golden shrimp coated in a zesty, creamy bang bang sauce, nestled in warm tortillas with fresh cabbage and tangy toppings. This recipe brings that vibrant burst of flavor you crave, turning an ordinary taco night into a festive flavor explosion. Whether you’re a longtime fan of seafood tacos or trying something new, these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos deliver excitement in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the crispy texture and bold flavors in this dish. Each item plays its role: the shrimp for tender seafood goodness, seasonings for depth, and cabbage and cilantro for fresh crunch and color.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the shrimp and helps the coating stick perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle peppery kick.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: A pinch of savory sweetness to balance the spice.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Brings a warm, aromatic undertone.
- 3/4 cup corn starch: The secret to that super crispy coating.
- Peanut oil or Canola oil for frying shrimp: High smoke point oils for golden, crunchy results.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the bang bang sauce.
- 3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce: Sweetness with a hint of spice to complement the shrimp.
- 3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste): Adds the fiery punch that defines this dish.
- 8 to 12 Small White Corn Tortillas (or Hard Taco Shells): Soft or crunchy, choose your preferred taco vessel.
- 3 cups Purple or Green Cabbage (thinly sliced): Crisp texture and vibrant color to brighten each bite.
- 1 medium tomato (diced): Freshness and a pop of juicy sweetness.
- 1/4 cup cilantro (coarsely chopped): Herbaceous lift to finish the tacos beautifully.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp in the buttermilk. This step not only tenderizes but also helps the seasoning and corn starch coating stick beautifully. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder for that foundational flavor that’s going to shine through after frying.
Step 2: Coat and Fry the Shrimp
Next, dredge each shrimp in corn starch until fully coated. This is where the crispy magic begins. Heat your peanut or canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat, and fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crunchy—about 2-3 minutes per batch. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan so they crisp up perfectly. Drain the shrimp on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 3: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to create that iconic creamy, spicy sauce. Adjust the heat by adding more or less Sriracha based on your tolerance. The balance between sweet and spicy in this sauce is what makes these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos unforgettable.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Warm your corn tortillas lightly on a dry skillet or in the oven. Layer a generous handful of thinly sliced cabbage on each tortilla, then add a few fried shrimp. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top, followed by a sprinkle of diced tomato and chopped cilantro. Each taco should be a colorful, flavorful little bundle ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe
Garnishes
Top your tacos with fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal freshness and diced tomatoes for juicy sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright tang that perfectly balances the creamy, spicy sauce.
Side Dishes
These tacos pair beautifully with light, refreshing sides like a zesty Mexican street corn salad or a simple cucumber and avocado salad. Crispy tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa make a fun snack alongside, making the whole meal feel like a celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe as a DIY taco bar with all the toppings laid out buffet-style. You can also swap in hard taco shells or even crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb twist. Drizzle extra bang bang sauce in artistic swirls on the serving plate for a restaurant-style touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp separately from the tortillas and sauce in airtight containers. The crispy coating softens quickly, so keep the shrimp chilled and reheat just before serving for best texture.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked shrimp, it’s best to freeze them before frying for quality retention. Coat and freeze the shrimp raw on a tray, then transfer to a sealed bag. Fry from frozen for fresh-tasting, crispy results later.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness—avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy. Warm tortillas separately in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp towel for softness without toughness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating and coating to ensure the batter sticks well and fries up crisp.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to half a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using—it works just as well for tenderizing shrimp.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe?
Yes! Substitute crispy fried cauliflower florets for the shrimp and toss them in the same bang bang sauce. It’s equally delicious and a great option if you prefer plant-based meals.
How spicy are these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
The heat mainly comes from Sriracha, which you can adjust to your taste. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and add more as you go—you control the fire!
Can I prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Definitely. The sauce actually tastes better after resting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe feels like a celebration of flavor, texture, and fun all wrapped into one. Whether for a casual weeknight or an impressive weekend gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Dive in, enjoy the crunch, spice, and freshness, and watch your loved ones ask for seconds every time.
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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 12 tacos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic favorite, combining crispy, spicy shrimp with creamy, tangy sauce and fresh, crunchy toppings. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal, these tacos balance heat and zest, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 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 (about 2 cups)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
- 3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)
Toppings and 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)
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with buttermilk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly. Let it marinate for 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Coating and Oil: Pour the corn starch into a shallow dish. Heat about 2 inches of peanut or canola oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Coat and Fry the Shrimp: Remove each shrimp from the buttermilk marinade, then dredge thoroughly in corn starch, shaking off excess. Fry the shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha hot sauce until smooth. Adjust spiciness as desired.
- Toss the Shrimp in Sauce: Place the fried shrimp in a large bowl and pour the bang bang sauce over them. Toss gently to coat all shrimp evenly.
- Prepare Tortillas and Toppings: Warm tortillas lightly in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Lay out the thinly sliced cabbage, diced tomato, and chopped cilantro for toppings.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place a small handful of cabbage on each tortilla, add several sauced shrimp on top, then sprinkle with diced tomato and cilantro. Serve immediately while shrimp is hot and crispy.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the Sriracha or omit it completely.
- Use white corn tortillas for a traditional taco experience or hard taco shells for added crunch.
- Peanut or canola oil is ideal for frying due to their high smoke points.
- To keep fried shrimp crispy, do not cover them while assembling the tacos.
- Leftover shrimp and sauce can be refrigerated but are best served fresh.
