If you’re searching for a dish that takes a classic favorite and adds a delightful twist, these bang bang shrimp tacos with slaw are perfect for you. Combining crispy, seasoned shrimp with a zesty slaw, this recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. The spicy bang bang sauce drenched over the crunchy cabbage not only pleases the palate but also brings together a medley of textures for a satisfying bite. Let me share my culinary adventure with this recipe and why it has quickly become a go-to in my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are so many reasons to dive into making bang bang shrimp tacos at home. First, the flavors! The combination of crunchy shrimp and fresh slaw creates a beautiful balance, making it both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, this dish comes together super quickly—all under 30 minutes—which is a lifesaver on busy nights.
Making these tacos at home gives you full control over your ingredients, ensuring you’re using fresh produce and the right level of spice. They’re versatile enough to please both kids and adults, making them an excellent choice for family meals or a fun taco night with friends. And let’s be honest, who can resist a tasty taco?
"These tacos blew my mind! The bang bang sauce is the perfect finish!" – A satisfied home cook.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making these bang bang shrimp tacos is a straightforward process, perfect even for novice cooks. You’ll start by seasoning and frying the shrimp until they’re golden brown and crispy. While those are cooking, you can whip up the bang bang sauce and slaw. Once everything’s ready, just assemble your tacos, and you’re good to go!
It really doesn’t take long to create this dish, and the deliciousness is well worth the effort. Here’s how the meal comes together:
- Prep your shrimp by coating them in a seasoned mixture.
- Fry to crispy perfection.
- Whip up the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce.
- Toss together the fresh slaw for a crunchy topping.
- Assemble and serve fresh!
What You’ll Need
To make these delicious bang bang shrimp tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp lime zest
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/3 cup chili sauce
- 1 tsp honey
- 4 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha
- 5/16 cup avocado oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 1/4 tsp salt
- 8 corn tortillas
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
These ingredients not only make for a fantastic flavor profile but also bring a delightful crunch and creaminess to each bite.
Directions to Follow
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Heat avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise, chili sauce, honey, Sriracha, lime juice, lime zest, and soy sauce to create the bang bang sauce.
- In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with cilantro, green onions, and buttermilk to create the slaw.
- Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until warm.
- Assemble the tacos by placing shrimp on the tortillas, topping with slaw, and drizzling with bang bang sauce.
- Serve immediately for the best experience.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving these tacos, the possibilities are endless! You can serve them with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick or add pickled jalapeños for those who crave extra heat. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a hearty meal. Don’t forget a chilled drink—perhaps a refreshing lemonade or iced tea—to balance the tacos’ spice with something soothing.
How to Store & Freeze
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence, I assure you), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For the best texture, it’s recommended to keep the shrimp, slaw, and tortillas separate until ready to enjoy again. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispness.
If you want to freeze the cooked shrimp, do so in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This method helps them maintain their shape and prevent clumping together.
Tips to Make
For optimal results, consider the following tips:
- Make sure the shrimp are completely dry before coating them with cornstarch for the best crispy texture.
- Adjust the spice level of your bang bang sauce by varying the amount of Sriracha or adding more honey for sweetening.
- Fresh lime juice is a game-changer—never substitute with bottled for this recipe.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:
- Swap shrimp for crispy tofu or grilled chicken for a different protein option.
- Use purple cabbage instead of green for a vibrant color contrast in your slaw.
- Add mango or avocado slices as toppings for an extra layer of flavor.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This entire meal can be ready in about 25-30 minutes.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before cooking.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, feel free to use chicken or tofu as alternative proteins.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! You can adjust the spice levels to suit your children’s tastes.
With these bang bang shrimp tacos, you won’t just satisfy your hunger—you’ll impress your family and friends with flavors that pack a punch. Enjoy the crispy, creamy, and tangy goodness of these delightful tacos!
Print
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Slaw
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Delicious bang bang shrimp tacos featuring crispy shrimp and zesty slaw, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp lime zest
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/3 cup chili sauce
- 1 tsp honey
- 4 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha
- 5/16 cup avocado oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 1/4 tsp salt
- 8 corn tortillas
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Heat avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise, chili sauce, honey, Sriracha, lime juice, lime zest, and soy sauce to create the bang bang sauce.
- In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with cilantro, green onions, and buttermilk to create the slaw.
- Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until warm.
- Assemble the tacos by placing shrimp on the tortillas, topping with slaw, and drizzling with bang bang sauce.
- Serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes
Great with lime wedges and pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican