Try our easy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe for a flavor explosion. It mixes crispy, spicy shrimp with Mexican taco warmth. This dish is ready in 30 minutes, great for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Every bite offers a creamy, spicy, and tangy mix.
Key Takeaways
- Crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce
- Unique fusion of Thai and Mexican flavors
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
- Healthier version of the Bonefish Grill favorite
- Versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste
What Makes Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Special
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a tasty mix of Thai and Mexican flavors. They offer a unique and delicious experience. This recipe is a healthier choice compared to the Bonefish Grill copycat, with fewer calories.
Origins of Bang Bang Sauce
The famous Bang Bang sauce started at the Bonefish Grill restaurant. It’s creamy, sweet, and a bit spicy. This sauce makes the shrimp tacos even more flavorful.
Why This Recipe Works
This Thai-Mexican fusion recipe is a hit because of its perfect flavor mix. The fried shrimp, creamy Bang Bang sauce, and fresh coleslaw topping work together perfectly. It’s a dish that’s both tasty and addictive.
Health Benefits Comparison
This homemade version of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is healthier than the Bonefish Grill copycat. It has fewer calories but keeps the same great flavors. This makes it a better choice for a healthier taco option.
“The Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe is a game-changer, offering a delicious and nutritious twist on a beloved restaurant dish.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp
To make the ultimate Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you need top-notch ingredients. The main attraction is extra-large shrimp, known as “26-30” per pound. This ensures each bite is full of seafood flavor. The shrimp is marinated in a creamy buttermilk brine to make it tender and moist.
The shrimp gets a crispy coating from all-purpose flour and cornstarch. This mix gives a perfect crunch without being too heavy. They’re fried in vegetable oil at 350°F until golden and juicy.
The bang bang sauce is the dish’s highlight. It’s made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a bit of Sriracha for heat. This sauce is what makes the shrimp taste so special.
To finish the tacos, you’ll need corn tortillas, shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also add pico de gallo or guacamole for extra flavor.
“The secret to making the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos lies in the quality and balance of the ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the signature flavors and textures that make this dish so irresistible.”
The Secret Behind the Perfect Bang Bang Sauce
The secret to the creamy spicy sauce for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. This mayo-based dressing is creamy and lets you adjust the heat level to your liking.
Sauce Ingredients Breakdown
The Bang Bang Sauce is made from just a few ingredients:
- Mayonnaise: Provides a rich, creamy base
- Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and tanginess
- Sriracha: Gives the signature spicy kick
Customizing Heat Levels
This sauce’s adjustable heat levels are its best feature. Start with a small amount of Sriracha and add more to your taste. For less heat, use less Sriracha. For more, add a bit more. Find the perfect spicy level for you.
Storage Tips for the Sauce
You can make the Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time. It will get even better in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll always have the creamy spicy sauce ready for your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
How to Choose and Prepare Shrimp
Creating delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos starts with the shrimp. Choose raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp without tails. This makes the shrimp clean and even, perfect for the Bang Bang sauce.
If fresh shrimp is hard to find, frozen shrimp is a great choice. To thaw frozen shrimp, follow the package instructions. You can thaw them in cold water for 20 minutes or in the fridge overnight. After thawing, dry the shrimp with paper towels before frying.
| Shrimp Preparation Tips |
|---|
| Raw shrimp selection |
| Deveining tips |
| Thawing frozen shrimp |
By following these tips, your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will be a hit. They’ll be full of flavor and ready for the Bang Bang sauce. Your guests will love them.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Explore quick and tasty 30-minute meals with our Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe. It’s a mix of tender shrimp, creamy spicy sauce, and crunchy veggies in warm tortillas. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, making these quick taco recipe tacos a hit.
Prep Time and Cook Time
Making this 30-minute meal is easy. It takes about 40 minutes, with 25 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking the shrimp.
Serving Size Information
This recipe makes 6 servings, with 2-3 serving portions per person. With 1 pound of shrimp, you’ll get 10-12 tasty tacos to enjoy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 lb |
| Buttermilk | 1/2 cup |
| Hot sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | Pinch |
| Cornstarch | 3/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Thai sweet chili sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Tortillas | 12 warm |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is easy. Start by setting up a breading station. You’ll need three shallow dishes for flour, egg whites, and panko breadcrumbs. Coat the shrimp in flour, then egg whites, and finally panko for a crispy frying technique.
Then, heat a lot of avocado or cooking oil in a big skillet. Fry the shrimp in batches for 1-2 minutes on each side. They should be golden and crispy. After frying, toss them in the sauce coating to coat them in the tasty Bang Bang sauce.
- Prepare the breading station with flour, egg whites, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip the shrimp in the flour, then the egg whites, and finally coat them in the panko.
- Heat oil in a skillet and fry the breaded shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Toss the fried shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce to coat them evenly.
- Assemble the tacos by layering the shrimp, cabbage slaw, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Now, it’s time to put the tacos together. Place the saucy shrimp on warm tortillas. Add cabbage slaw, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve these tasty Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos right away. Enjoy the mix of crispy, creamy, and zesty flavors in every bite.
Tortilla and Toppings Guide
Building the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos starts with the right tortilla and toppings. Let’s look at the best choices to take your tacos to the next level.
Best Tortilla Options
For a real taco feel, choose small, warm white corn tortillas. Their charred edges and soft texture match the bold Bang Bang shrimp flavors. Soft flour tortillas are also great, offering a strong base for all the tasty fillings.
To get the right feel, lightly toast tortillas for 30 seconds on each side. Use a hot, dry skillet or griddle. This makes the taco shell crunchy yet flexible, so it won’t fall apart.
Essential Toppings List
- Shredded cabbage or coleslaw blend
- Freshly chopped cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Lime wedges for a refreshing squeeze of citrus
For extra flavor and crunch, try diced tomatoes, radishes, or a creamy avocado topping. The mix of tender shrimp, crunchy shells, and fresh toppings is a joy to eat.
The magic of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is in their mix of flavors and textures. Try different tortillas and toppings to find your favorite mix that hits the spot.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time can save you a lot of time on busy nights. With a few easy steps, you can enjoy this dish again later.
For the best leftover storage, keep the shrimp and Bang Bang sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp stays good for 3-4 days, and the sauce can last up to a week.
To reheat the shrimp, bake them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps them stay crispy. The Bang Bang sauce can be warmed in the microwave in 15-second intervals until it’s hot.
For the best meal prep results, build the tacos just before eating. This keeps the shrimp crispy and the toppings fresh. It’s best to add the sauce just before serving to avoid sogginess.
| Ingredient | Storage Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 3-4 days in the refrigerator | Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes |
| Bang Bang Sauce | Up to 1 week in the refrigerator | Microwave in 15-second intervals until warmed through |
By using these make-ahead and storage tips, you can enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos all week. It makes meal prep easy and convenient.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
These low-calorie option Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are packed with flavor. Each serving has about 650 calories, 29g of protein content, and 99g of carbs. For those who need gluten-free alternatives, just swap the regular flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones.
To cut down calories, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce. This change not only reduces calories but also adds a creamy touch and a bit of tanginess to the Bang Bang sauce.
| Nutritional Information (per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 29 g |
| Carbohydrates | 99 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 232 mg |
| Sodium | 1,450 mg |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
The recipe is rich in protein content. It’s easy to tweak for different diets, making it a great choice for many people.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Make your taco night special by adding delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Try them with Mexican-inspired sides and drinks. You can choose from crunchy tortilla chips, zesty salsa, creamy guacamole, and cool margaritas. These options will make your meal unforgettable.
Begin with the basics: tortilla chips, fresh salsa, and guacamole. These sides match the bold flavors of the Bang Bang Shrimp perfectly. For more, add Spanish rice or Mexican street corn. They both go great with the shrimp.
- Tortilla Chips
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Spanish Rice
- Mexican Street Corn
Don’t forget the drinks. Margaritas, classic or flavored, are perfect with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. For those who don’t drink, try Mexican aguas frescas like horchata or jamaica.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Compatibility with Bang Bang Shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| Jasmine Rice | Subtly sweet | Balances the spiciness of the shrimp |
| Cucumber Salad | Refreshing and crunchy | Provides a palate-cleansing effect |
| Stuffed Mushrooms | Earthy and flavorful | Enhances the bold flavors of the shrimp |
| Zucchini Noodles | Mild and al dente | Allows the shrimp to be the star |
| Asian Slaw | Crunchy and flavorful | Complements the textures and tastes of the shrimp |
| Grilled Pineapple | Sweet and caramelized | Counteracts the spiciness of the shrimp |
Enhance your taco night with these tasty sides and drinks. Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with a variety of flavors for a memorable meal.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
The classic Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe is a hit, but you can make it your own. Looking for a chicken alternative, fish tacos, or a vegetarian option? This dish can be tailored to your liking.
Want to try something different? Swap the shrimp for diced chicken thighs or crispy tofu. The Bang Bang sauce complements various proteins, opening up new flavor possibilities.
Craving seafood? Use flaky white fish like tilapia or cod instead of shrimp. The fish absorbs the creamy, spicy sauce, making for a tasty fish taco.
For a meatless option, roasted cauliflower florets are a great substitute. Toss them in the Bang Bang sauce for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Feel free to play with the sauce too. Try using Greek yogurt or a mix of sour cream and yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce.
Whichever path you choose, the key is to enjoy the journey. Experiment with proteins, sauces, and toppings to create your perfect dish.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Making delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos needs careful attention and avoiding common mistakes. One big error is overcrowding the pan when frying shrimp. This can lower the oil temperature, making the shrimp soggy and greasy. To get the shrimp crispy, fry them in batches at a steady 375°F.
Another mistake is over-coating the shrimp with Bang Bang sauce. The sauce is key, but too much can make the shrimp soggy. Keep the sauce thick and creamy, and lightly coat the shrimp to keep their texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the shrimp to maintain the oil temperature and achieve the desired crispiness.
- Don’t over-coat the shrimp with the Bang Bang sauce, as it can lead to a soggy texture.
- Ensure the oil is heated to 375°F before frying each batch of shrimp for best results.
- Thoroughly pat the shrimp dry before breading to help the coating adhere and create a crispy exterior.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following the recipe, you’ll make restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos at home.
The secret to perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos lies in the details. Avoid these common pitfalls, and you’ll be serving up a dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results
Get the perfect crispy coating and balanced flavors with these tips. Keeping the oil at a steady 375°F is key for crispiness. Use a digital thermometer for accuracy and avoid overcrowding the fryer.
When breading the shrimp, shake off extra flour or breadcrumbs. This helps achieve a light, crunchy coating.
Temperature Control Tips
Getting the right temperature is crucial for crispy shrimp. Invest in a reliable digital thermometer. This keeps the oil at a steady 375°F.
This ensures the shrimp fry to a golden-brown without burning or getting greasy.
Texture Perfection Guidelines
For the best texture, balance the Bang Bang sauce well. Adjust the sweet, sour, and spicy to your liking. This makes the shrimp creamy and flavorful.
Serve the tacos right after making them. The warm, crispy shrimp go great with cool, crunchy toppings.
FAQ
What makes Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos special?
These tacos mix Thai and Mexican flavors. They have crispy fried shrimp in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. This is a healthier take on Bonefish Grill’s dish.
Where did the Bang Bang sauce originate?
Bonefish Grill created the Bang Bang sauce. This recipe is a healthier version, blending creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
You’ll need large shrimp, buttermilk, and cornstarch or panko for the coating. The sauce includes mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice wine vinegar. For the tacos, use corn tortillas, shredded cabbage, cilantro, and lime juice.
How do you make the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce?
Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha for the sauce. Adjust the heat with sriracha. Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness and lemon juice or vinegar for tartness. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How do you prepare the shrimp?
Use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Frozen shrimp works well. Thaw it under cold water or in the fridge overnight. Pat dry before breading and frying.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
It takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. The recipe makes 8-12 tacos, with 3 tacos per serving.
How do you assemble the tacos?
Prepare a breading station with flour, egg whites, and panko. Coat the shrimp and fry until golden. Toss in Bang Bang sauce. Then, fill tortillas with shrimp, cabbage, cilantro, and lime juice.
What are the best tortilla and topping options?
Choose small white corn or flour tortillas. Toast them lightly. Top with cabbage, cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges. You can also add diced tomatoes, radishes, coleslaw, or avocado.
How can you store and reheat the components?
Store shrimp and sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat shrimp in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Microwave the sauce in 15-second intervals. Assemble tacos fresh for the best taste and texture.
What are the nutritional details and dietary considerations?
Each serving has about 650 calories, 29g protein, and 99g carbs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to reduce calories. This recipe is high in protein and can be adjusted for different diets.
What are some serving suggestions and side dish ideas?
Serve with tortilla chips, salsa, guacamole, or extra pico de gallo. Try cowboy coleslaw, Mexican street corn, Spanish rice, or jicama fries as sides. Finish with margaritas and churros for dessert.
What are some recipe variations and substitutions?
Use chicken or fish instead of shrimp for different proteins. For a vegetarian option, try crispy tofu or cauliflower. Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier sauce. Experiment with different hot sauces or add honey for unique flavors.
What are some common cooking mistakes to avoid?
Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep oil temperature steady. Avoid over-saucing to prevent sogginess. Keep oil at 375°F before frying. Pat shrimp dry before breading for the best texture.
What are the pro tips for restaurant-quality results?
Keep oil at 375°F for crispiness. Use a digital thermometer for accuracy. Shake off excess breading before frying. Balance sauce flavors to taste. Serve tacos immediately for the best texture and taste.
