Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw

If you’re craving something vibrant, crunchy, and packed with flavor, these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw are an absolute game changer. Imagine crispy, lightly coated shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled in warm corn tortillas, and topped with a zesty lime slaw that adds the perfect refreshing crunch. It’s a dish that balances heat and tang beautifully, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out because of the delightful combination of textures and flavors that come together in every bite. The shrimp are coated in cornstarch for an irresistibly crispy exterior without the heaviness of deep frying. The creamy sauce combines sweet chili and Sriracha for that classic bang bang flavor—spicy, sweet, and a little smoky. The lime slaw is a fresh, tangy contrast with shredded cabbage and carrots, brightened up with lime juice and fresh cilantro. And using simple corn tortillas keeps it light and authentic. This is not just a taco; it’s an explosion of flavors that’s easy to prepare but feels gourmet.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup green cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup carrots, grated
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large mixing bowl – for coating the shrimp and tossing the slaw
• Frying pan or skillet – to cook the shrimp with olive oil
• Grater – to shred carrots
• Sharp knife – for chopping cilantro and slicing lime
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the recipe precise
• Spatula or tongs – to flip the shrimp and handle tortillas

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Lime Slaw

In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped cilantro. Pour in the juice of one lime and drizzle with a little olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well mixed. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you cook the shrimp.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Place the cornstarch in a shallow dish. One by one, dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This coating will give the shrimp a crispy texture when cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the coated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and the coating is crisp and golden. Remove from heat and place the shrimp on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth. Adjust the amount of Sriracha depending on how spicy you like your sauce.

Step 5: Toss the Shrimp in Sauce

Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the bang bang sauce and gently toss until each shrimp is coated evenly.

Step 6: Warm the Tortillas

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side or until soft and pliable.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Place a handful of lime slaw on each tortilla, then top with a generous portion of the sauced shrimp. Garnish with extra cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.

Dietary Customizations

• For a lighter version: Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the bang bang sauce to reduce calories.
• Make it vegan: Substitute shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower florets and use vegan mayo.
• Gluten-free: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free; just double-check cornstarch packaging.
• Less spicy: Reduce or omit the Sriracha in the sauce to suit milder tastes.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Using cornstarch instead of flour keeps the shrimp extra crispy without a heavy batter.
• Sweet chili sauce adds a nice sweetness that balances the heat from the Sriracha perfectly.
• If you prefer more crunch, add sliced radishes or thinly sliced red onion to the lime slaw.
• For added depth, lightly char the tortillas directly over a gas flame or in a hot skillet.

Shelf Life & Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store components separately:

• Cooked shrimp: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Lime slaw: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days; toss again before serving.
• Assembled tacos: Not recommended to store assembled as the tortillas may become soggy.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw FAQs

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the shrimp and lime slaw in advance but assemble the tacos right before serving to keep the tortillas from getting soggy and the shrimp crispy.

What can I use if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?

You can substitute with a mix of honey and chili garlic sauce or a mild chili sauce combined with a little sugar to mimic that sweet and spicy flavor.

Are corn tortillas better than flour tortillas for this recipe?

Corn tortillas provide an authentic flavor and slightly firmer texture that holds up well to the sauced shrimp and crunchy slaw, but feel free to use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer wrap.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of pan-frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the shrimp as directed and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Try the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for another bang bang inspired dish with a fun twist.
• Serve with a side of Mexican Salsa Verde to add a zesty green sauce that complements the shrimp tacos beautifully.
• Pair with cilantro lime rice or black beans for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
• Swap shrimp for grilled fish in these tacos for a coastal vibe.

In Closing

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw bring together crispy, spicy shrimp and a refreshing slaw that brightens every bite. They’re quick to prepare, full of bold flavors, and perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests. Whether you’re new to shrimp tacos or a seasoned taco lover, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

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