Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe Ingredients For the Shrimp: 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice) ½ cup cornstarch ½ cup all-purpose flour ½ tsp garlic powder ½ tsp paprika ½ tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Bang Bang Sauce: ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup sweet chili sauce 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste) 1 tsp honey 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
For the Slaw: 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple) ½ cup shredded carrots 2 tbsp chopped green onions 1 tbsp lime juice Salt & pepper to taste
For Serving: 6–8 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed) Fresh cilantro, chopped Lime wedges Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce
Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar. Taste and adjust spice level as desired. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp Place cleaned shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk. Let soak for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.
Step 3: Mix the Coating In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated shrimp in the dry mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.
Step 5: Toss in Sauce In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with half of the bang bang sauce. Reserve the rest for drizzling or dipping.
Step 6: Make the Slaw In a small bowl, toss cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to slightly soften and absorb the flavors.
Step 7: Assemble the Tacos Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Add a small handful of slaw to each tortilla. Top with bang bang shrimp. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado or pickled onions
