Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite! Imagine succulent, crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled in a warm tortilla with fresh, vibrant toppings. These aren’t your average tacos; they’re a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of Bang Bang Shrimp are debated, its popularity soared thanks to Bonefish Grill, who introduced their version to the world. The dish quickly became a sensation, and for good reason! The combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy is simply irresistible. The beauty of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos lies not only in their incredible taste but also in their versatility. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun weekend gathering, or even a sophisticated appetizer.

People adore this dish because it offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The crispy shrimp provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy Bang Bang sauce delivers a sweet and spicy kick. The cool, refreshing toppings like shredded cabbage and cilantro add a layer of freshness that balances the richness of the shrimp. Plus, they are incredibly easy to customize to your liking. Whether you prefer a mild heat or a fiery inferno, you can adjust the spice level to create your perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos experience. So, let’s dive in and create some taco magic!

Ingredients:

For the Bang Bang Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying

For the Slaw:

4 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix)
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

12 small corn or flour tortillas
Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, lime wedges

Preparing the Bang Bang Shrimp

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a crispy coating. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. Make sure each shrimp is well covered; this will help create that signature crispy texture.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the sriracha to your liking. If you prefer a milder sauce, start with less sriracha and add more gradually. The sauce should be creamy, sweet, and have a nice kick.
Fry the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately. Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The shrimp should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Coat the Shrimp: Remove the fried shrimp from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While the shrimp are still hot, transfer them to the bowl with the Bang Bang sauce. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece is nicely covered in that delicious, creamy sauce.

Making the Slaw

Combine the Vegetables: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots. You can use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time, or shred your own cabbage and carrots for a fresher taste.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, and celery seed. The dressing should be smooth and slightly tangy.
Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Toss well to combine, ensuring that all the vegetables are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the amount of dressing to your liking; some people prefer a drier slaw, while others prefer a more heavily dressed slaw.
Chill the Slaw (Optional): For best results, cover the slaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the slaw to become slightly softer and more flavorful.

Assembling the Tacos

Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or in the oven wrapped in foil. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you fold them.
Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous spoonful of slaw in the center of each tortilla.
Add the Shrimp: Top the slaw with a portion of the Bang Bang shrimp. Be generous with the shrimp; after all, that’s the star of the show!
Add Toppings (Optional): Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and lime wedges. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the Bang Bang sauce.
Serve Immediately: Serve the tacos immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh, while the shrimp is still warm and the slaw is crisp.

Tips and Variations

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount and add more to taste. You can also use a different type of hot sauce if you prefer.
Shrimp Size: I prefer using large shrimp for this recipe, but you can use smaller shrimp if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Tortilla Type: You can use either corn or flour tortillas for these tacos. Corn tortillas are a classic choice for tacos, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Choose whichever you prefer.
Slaw Variations: Get creative with your slaw! You can add other vegetables, such as red onion, bell peppers, or jicama. You can also use a different type of dressing, such as a vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing.
Air Fryer Option: For a healthier option, you can air fry the shrimp instead of frying them in oil. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the shrimp with cooking spray and air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and the slaw ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos. The shrimp is best cooked fresh, but you can also cook it ahead of time and reheat it gently before assembling the tacos.
Serving Suggestions: Serve these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with a side of rice and beans, or a simple salad. They’re also great as an appetizer for a party or gathering.

Detailed Explanation of Ingredients

Shrimp

The star of the show! I recommend using large shrimp (26/30 count) that are peeled and deveined. This size is perfect for tacos, providing a good bite without being overwhelming. Make sure to pat the shrimp dry before coating them in cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior we all crave. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure the frozen shrimp is fully thawed before cooking.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch is the secret to crispy shrimp. It creates a light, airy coating that crisps up beautifully when fried. Don’t skip this step! Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated for the best results.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise forms the base of the Bang Bang sauce, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. I prefer using full-fat mayonnaise for the best taste, but you can use light mayonnaise if you’re looking to cut down on calories.

Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet chili sauce adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle heat to the Bang Bang sauce. You can find it in the Asian aisle of most grocery stores. If you can’t find sweet chili sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of honey and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Sriracha

Sriracha is what gives the Bang Bang sauce its signature kick. Adjust the amount to your liking, depending on your spice preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount and add more gradually. You can also use a different type of hot sauce if you prefer.

Rice Vinegar

Rice vinegar adds a touch of tanginess to the Bang Bang sauce and the slaw dressing. It helps to balance out the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder adds a savory flavor to the Bang Bang sauce. You can use fresh garlic instead, but garlic powder is more convenient and provides a more consistent flavor.

Cabbage

Shredded cabbage forms the base of the slaw. You can use green cabbage, red cabbage, or a mix of both. You can also use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time, or shred your own cabbage for a fresher taste.

Carrots

Shredded carrots add a touch of sweetness and color to

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are truly a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. From the crispy, perfectly coated shrimp to the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce and the fresh, vibrant toppings, every bite is an absolute delight. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy-to-make meals. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. But what makes these tacos so special? It’s the harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The shrimp is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the bang bang sauce provides a creamy, spicy kick, and the slaw adds a refreshing crunch. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving these tacos with a side of Mexican rice and black beans for a complete and satisfying meal. A simple corn and avocado salad also pairs beautifully. And don’t forget the drinks! A refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer is the perfect complement to the spicy flavors of the tacos. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You could also swap out the slaw for shredded lettuce or cabbage. Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Serving Variations:

Bang Bang Shrimp Bowls: Serve the bang bang shrimp over rice or quinoa with your favorite toppings for a healthy and satisfying bowl.
Bang Bang Shrimp Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, use lettuce cups instead of tortillas.
Bang Bang Shrimp Quesadillas: Add the bang bang shrimp and cheese to a tortilla and grill until golden brown.
Spicy Shrimp Salad: Toss the bang bang shrimp with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a delicious salad.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize the recipe to your liking. The possibilities are endless! You can even use different types of seafood, like scallops or calamari, in place of the shrimp. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. I’m so confident that you’ll love these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that I urge you to try them out as soon as possible. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to spice up your taco night. Once you’ve made them, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite toppings? What did you serve them with? Please share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Remember to have fun in the kitchen and don’t be afraid to experiment!