Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp) are a delightful fusion of crispy shrimp and zesty toppings, all wrapped up in soft corn tortillas. These tacos are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With their unique blend of flavors and textures, they are sure to impress your family and friends. The creamy sauce adds a kick that elevates these tacos to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha gives these tacos a sweet and spicy taste that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as tacos or serve the Bang Bang Shrimp over rice or salad for a different twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These tacos are always a hit at parties, making them great for entertaining guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or less Sriracha.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: Ideal for achieving that crispy texture on the shrimp without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for mixing ingredients evenly and keeping your workspace organized.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Perfect for safely flipping shrimp while frying, ensuring they cook evenly without burning.

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)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
2. Add the peeled shrimp to the bowl; let them soak for about 10 minutes.
3. In another bowl, place corn starch.

Step 2: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Dredge each shrimp in corn starch until fully coated.
3. Carefully place shrimp in hot oil; fry until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
4. Remove cooked shrimp from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with Thai sweet chili sauce and Sriracha.
2. Taste the sauce; adjust spiciness as desired by adding more Sriracha if needed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

1. Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
2. Place fried shrimp on each tortilla.
3. Top with sliced cabbage, diced tomatoes, and cilantro.
4. Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos at your next meal!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Serving Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is all about enhancing their delightful flavors. You can customize your tacos with various toppings and sides to create a memorable meal.

Classic Toppings

• Cabbage Slaw: Freshly sliced purple or green cabbage adds a crispy texture and a pop of color.
• Diced Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes bring freshness and balance the spiciness of the shrimp.
• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro gives a bright flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Sauce Options

• Extra Bang Bang Sauce: Drizzle more of that creamy, spicy sauce for an extra kick.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors and adds a zesty touch.

Serving Style

• Soft Corn Tortillas: Use small white corn tortillas for a traditional taco experience.
• Hard Taco Shells: For those who prefer crunch, hard taco shells can be a fun alternative.

Meal Presentation

• Platter Display: Serve the tacos on a large platter with toppings arranged in bowls for a festive look.
• Garnish Ideas: Add slices of avocado or pickled jalapeños for visual appeal and extra flavor.

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How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

Perfecting Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos involves attention to detail at every step. Follow these tips to enhance your taco-making skills.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh shrimp and produce for the best taste and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the Sriracha in the sauce based on your heat preference; more for spice lovers!
• Fry in Batches: Fry shrimp in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
• Warm Tortillas: Gently warm tortillas before serving; this makes them pliable and enhances their flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices complements the shrimp nicely.
2. Black Beans: Protein-packed black beans offer creaminess that balances the dish’s crunch.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides richness that pairs well with spicy tacos.
4. Corn Salsa: Sweet corn salsa adds a refreshing twist that brightens up the meal.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies brings out smoky flavors that complement seafood.
6. Mango Salad: A light mango salad with lime dressing offers sweetness and acidity, perfect alongside tacos.
7. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness with its vibrant flavors, enhancing each bite of taco.
8. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy chips served with zesty salsa make for an addictive appetizer before diving into tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking shrimp: Cooking the shrimp for too long can make them tough. Aim for a few minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
• Too much sauce: Using too much sauce can overwhelm the tacos. Drizzle lightly and adjust according to your taste preference.
• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the shrimp in buttermilk can lead to less flavorful tacos. Let the shrimp soak for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Using low-quality tortillas: Poor-quality tortillas can break easily. Opt for fresh, soft corn tortillas or sturdy hard taco shells.
• Ignoring toppings: Skipping toppings like cabbage or cilantro can make your tacos less vibrant. Add these for crunch and freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

• Freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the tortillas and toppings.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, ensuring even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

What are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)?

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos feature crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, served in tortillas with fresh toppings.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating and cooking.

How spicy are these tacos?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha you add. Start with a little and increase according to your taste.

What toppings work best with these tacos?

Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and crunchy cabbage are excellent choices that complement the flavors well.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables or substitute different sauces based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not just delicious; they offer versatility with customizable toppings and sauces. They’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Try this recipe, and feel free to experiment with flavors that you love!