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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

American · Dinner · Easy

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Total
40 min
Prep
20 min
Serves
4
Calories
470
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Crisp cornstarch-coated shrimp tuck into warm tortillas with crunchy cabbage and a creamy sweet-chili sauce. Lime keeps the rich coating lively.

The thin crust on Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos comes from a quick buttermilk dip followed by cornstarch. Frying in small batches lets that shell set before the shrimp overcook, while the sauce adds sweet heat at the table.

Use large peeled shrimp and shake away loose starch before frying. Dress only the shrimp you are about to eat; once coated, the crust gradually softens under the creamy sauce.

CrispySpicyCreamyTrendingStreet FoodPescatarianNut-free

Method

  1. Stir mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce and sriracha together. Toss cabbage with lime juice and cilantro. Wrap corn tortillas in foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for .

  2. Toss shrimp with buttermilk. Mix cornstarch and salt on a plate. Lift shrimp out, letting excess buttermilk drip off, and coat lightly with the starch.

  3. Heat vegetable oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp in three batches for each, turning halfway, until the shells are crisp and the centers are opaque and reach 145°F. Drain on a rack.

  4. Divide cabbage among the warm tortillas. Add shrimp and drizzle with the sauce just before serving so the coating keeps its crunch.

Forkue tips

  • Keep the sauce separate until serving and drizzle rather than soaking the shrimp.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate cooked shrimp separately from sauce and slaw for up to 2 days. Re-crisp at 400°F (200°C) for 5-6 minutes, then assemble fresh tacos.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

470Calories
26gProtein
44gCarbs
21gFat

Image: AI-generated picture of the finished dish, made by Forkue. Yours will look like home cooking.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: FAQ

Can I skip the buttermilk?

Plain yogurt thinned with a little water makes a useful substitute. Its job is to leave a light coating that helps the cornstarch cling.

Why is my shrimp coating gummy?

Too much wet coating or oil that is too cool can make the starch gummy. Let excess buttermilk drip away and restore the oil temperature between batches.

How do I store and reheat Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Refrigerate cooked shrimp separately from sauce and slaw for up to 2 days. Re-crisp at 400°F (200°C) for 5-6 minutes, then assemble fresh tacos.

How long does Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos take?

About 40 min in total: 20 min prep and 20 min cooking.

What do I need to make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The key ingredients are shrimp, buttermilk, cornstarch, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce and sriracha, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Keep the sauce separate until serving and drizzle rather than soaking the shrimp.

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