Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure the batter adheres properly.
- Whisk the buttermilk and egg together in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth.
- Submerge the shrimp in the buttermilk mixture and marinate them in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Allow the shrimp to marinate longer for deeper flavor; do not rush this step.
Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
- Combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish and mix thoroughly.
- Remove the shrimp from the marinade with tongs, let the excess liquid drip off, and transfer them to the flour-cornstarch mixture.
- Coat each shrimp evenly, pressing gently to ensure full coverage, and shake off any excess coating.
- Double-coat the shrimp by dipping them back into the buttermilk and then the flour mixture for extra crunch.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
- Heat vegetable oil in a fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C), testing the heat with a small piece of bread if a thermometer is unavailable.
- Carefully fry the coated shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and ensure even crisping.
- Fry the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown, then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Monitor the oil temperature closely to prevent the shrimp from burning or becoming soggy.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Stir together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the spice or sweetness by adding more sriracha or honey as desired.
- Include the honey to balance the heat and achieve the signature sweetness of the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the taco shells in the oven or on a skillet for 1 to 2 minutes until soft and pliable.
- Place a small amount of shredded cabbage or slaw in each taco shell to provide freshness and crunch.
- Add 4 to 5 crispy shrimp to each taco shell.
- Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the shrimp and serve extra on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and optional sliced avocado.
- Serve the taco components separately to allow guests to assemble their own customized tacos.
Nutrition
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~30g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Cholesterol: ~180mg
- Sodium: ~800mg
- Sugar: ~7g
- Fiber: ~2g
