Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos (Dynamite Shrimp)

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a flavor explosion! Crispy shrimp drizzled in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce, served with fresh toppings like crunchy cabbage and tomatoes. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day you’re craving bold, satisfying bites. 🌮🔥

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 tacos

Ingredients

For the Bang Bang Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder
3/4 cup corn starch
Peanut or canola oil for frying

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)

For the Tacos:

8-12 small white corn tortillas or hard taco shells
3 cups thinly sliced cabbage (purple or green)
1 medium tomato, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, coarsely chopped

Instructions

1. Make the Sauce:
Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add shrimp, ensuring they are fully coated. Let marinate while preheating oil.

3. Bread the Shrimp:
Remove shrimp from the marinade and let excess drip off. Coat in cornstarch, tapping off the excess. Arrange on a platter.

4. Fry the Shrimp:
Heat 1 1/2 inches of oil in a dutch oven or heavy pot to 375°F. Fry shrimp in batches for 2.5-3 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Toss in Sauce:
Place fried shrimp in a bowl and drizzle with half the sauce. Toss gently to coat and let rest for 10 minutes.

6. Assemble the Tacos:
Lightly toast tortillas on a skillet or griddle for 30 seconds per side. Fill with cabbage, tomato, shrimp, and a drizzle of sauce. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.