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Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

crispy bang bang shrimp tacos - featured image

Crispy battered shrimp served in soft tortillas with a creamy, spicy chili sauce. A quick and flavorful recipe perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed (fresh or thawed frozen shrimp)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup cold sparkling water
  • Vegetable or canola oil (for deep frying)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sriracha
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
  3. Slowly pour in cold sparkling water, whisking gently until smooth but slightly thick.
  4. Pour oil into a deep fryer or pot to a depth of about 3 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Dip each shrimp into the batter, letting excess drip off.
  6. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels or wire rack.
  7. While frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
  8. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20-30 seconds per side or in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
  9. Assemble tacos by spreading creamy chili sauce on tortillas, adding 3-4 shrimp, shredded cabbage, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
  10. Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

Keep the batter cold and use cold sparkling water for a light, crispy coating. Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Drain shrimp on a wire rack for best crispiness. Adjust sriracha and honey in the sauce to taste. Warm tortillas before assembling. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond or rice flour and use gluten-free tortillas.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, bang bang shrimp, crispy shrimp, creamy chili sauce, easy shrimp recipe, quick tacos, seafood tacos