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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

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4.5 from 151 reviews

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos combine crispy, perfectly fried shrimp coated in a light cornstarch batter with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Served on warm tortillas with crunchy shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, and a hint of lime juice, these tacos deliver a delicious balance of textures and flavors perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Coating

  • 1 lb large shrimp, deveined and peeled
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch for coating
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Tacos and Garnishes

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime

Bang Bang Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they fry up crispy.
  2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth and well combined. Adjust Sriracha to your preferred spice level.
  3. Coat the Shrimp: In another bowl, combine the cornstarch with salt and pepper. Toss each shrimp in this mixture, making sure they are fully coated for a crispy exterior.
  4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the coated shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. Warm the Tortillas: Briefly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
  6. Assemble the Tacos: Layer shredded cabbage onto each tortilla, then place a few pieces of crispy shrimp on top. Drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the tacos and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Adjust the Sriracha in the bang bang sauce to control the heat level.
  • For an even crispier coating, double-dip the shrimp in cornstarch before frying.
  • You can use either corn or flour tortillas based on personal preference.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy shrimp.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture as the shrimp will lose crispiness over time.