Introduction to Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
When it comes to taco night, homemade tacos always take the crown over fast food options. Why, you ask? Well, for starters, you have total control over the ingredients, allowing you to craft a dish that's not only delicious but also healthier. For instance, our Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are packed with flavor and packed shrimp, making every bite count!
Making tacos at home means you can experiment with flavors and textures that perfectly fit your taste. Instead of soggy shrimp and overly processed sauces, why not whip up some crispy shrimp tossed in a zesty bang bang sauce? Recent studies show that people who cook at home tend to consume fewer calories and have a more balanced diet than their takeout counterparts (source: Harvard Health). Plus, there's something genuinely satisfying about putting together a dish that delights family and friends.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your taco experience, grab your air fryer and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe. With just a few simple steps, you'll have taco perfection right at your fingertips!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Essential Ingredients for the Shrimp
For the Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you'll need 1 lb of large raw shrimp that should be peeled, deveined, and without tails. This ensures the shrimp are easy to handle when filling your tortillas! The coating consists of 2 large eggs, ½ cup tapioca flour, and 1.5 cups of panko breadcrumbs. Season them well with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Don't forget a spritz of cooking spray for that crispy finish!
Components for the Bang Bang Sauce
The star of the show is undoubtedly the bang bang sauce. Combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, and a splash of sriracha to kick things up a notch. If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add more sriracha for an extra kick!
Making the Slaw
To balance the flavors, whip up a fresh slaw with 8 oz of coleslaw mix, combining it with ¼ cup each of chopped cilantro and green onions. Mix in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, the juice from half a lime, and a squirt of sriracha to give your tacos that zesty crunch. Don’t forget to add kosher salt to taste!
These vibrant ingredients come together to create a delightful meal that’s both tasty and satisfying. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
If you're on the lookout for an exciting culinary adventure, these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will brighten up your weeknight dinners! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious taco experience that will impress your friends and family.
Setting up your dredging station
Begin by prepping your dredging station with three shallow bowls. This setup is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden texture on the shrimp.
- In the first bowl, combine ½ cup tapioca flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper.
- The second bowl is for the panko breadcrumbs.
- Whisk together 2 eggs with a splash of water in the third bowl. This will be your egg wash.
Using one hand for the wet ingredients and the other for the dry can help keep things less messy!
Preparing the shrimp for the air fryer
Now that your dredging station is set, it's time to dive into the shrimp! Make sure to pat the shrimp dry—this helps the coating stick better. Dip each shrimp first in the tapioca flour mixture, then in the egg wash, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs.
As you bread the shrimp, lay them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Don’t forget to spray the top with a light coat of cooking spray for that extra crispiness.
Cooking the shrimp to crispy perfection
Cook the shrimp at 390°F for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking process. When you flip them, give the other side a quick spray of oil. This ensures that every piece reaches that delightful golden brown you’re aiming for—a must-have for delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Whisking together the bang bang sauce
While your shrimp cooks, let’s get saucy! In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sriracha (or more for a kick!). Whisk until smooth. This sauce is the star of the show—creamy, spicy, and oh-so-flavorful!
Combining the slaw ingredients
To add a fresh crunch to your tacos, mix the slaw. In a large bowl, combine 8 oz of coleslaw mix, ¼ cup of chopped cilantro, ¼ cup of chopped green onion, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, juice from ½ lime, and a squirt of sriracha. Toss it all together until the slaw is well-coated. It’s tangy and gives your tacos that beautiful flavor balance.
Tossing the shrimp in the bang bang sauce
Once your shrimp are crispy, transfer them to a large bowl and drizzle the bang bang sauce over them—save a bit for garnishing if you like! Gently toss or shake the bowl to ensure that every shrimp is perfectly coated in that luscious sauce.
Assembling your tacos
Warm your tortillas—this can be done over an open flame, in a pan, or the microwave for a few seconds. To assemble, place some slaw on each tortilla, then load it up with the shrimp. Finish with any leftover bang bang sauce and garnish with sliced green onions.
Enjoy the burst of flavors in your mouth as you dig into these sensational Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos—a fusion of textures and tastes you'll want to savor again and again!
If you want more delicious seafood recipes, check out other inspiring taco ideas here. Happy cooking!
Variations on Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Added Heat
Amp up the flavor of your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos by incorporating extra seasoning or hot sauce into your bang bang sauce. Try adding finely chopped jalapeños for that fresh burst of spice, or if you're feeling adventurous, a spoonful of habanero sauce will take it to the next level. Pairing these spicy kicks with a creamy avocado or cooling sour cream can balance the heat beautifully!
Vegetarian Options for a Bang Bang Twist
Not in the mood for shrimp? No problem! Swap the shrimp for crispy cauliflower bites or tofu marinated in a similar blend of spices, then air-fried until golden and crunchy. Toss them in the same bang bang sauce for that irresistible flavor. You can create a fantastic vegetarian bang bang taco by following the same assembly steps, topping them with your favorite slaw. Check out resources like Oh She Glows for even more plant-based inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Getting the Shrimp Crispy in the Air Fryer
To achieve that perfectly crispy texture for your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, make sure to thoroughly pat the shrimp dry before breading. This not only helps the breading stick better but also enhances the crispiness. Don't skip the cooking spray! Spraying the shrimp lightly before air frying promotes a golden, crunchy outside.
Choosing the Right Tortillas
When it comes to tortillas, opt for flour tortillas as they complement the flavors well and have a soft texture that wraps around the filling beautifully. Consider warming them on a skillet for added flexibility and flavor. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free option, try using your favorite gluten-free tortillas for a delicious alternative.
For more air fryer recipes, check out this resource that features a variety of dishes perfect for your cooking adventures!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Pairing with sides for a complete meal
To elevate your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, consider pairing them with light and crispy sides. A fresh garden salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully. You might also try serving tortilla chips with homemade guacamole or a tangy salsa for an added crunch and flavor burst.
Drink options that complement the tacos
For a refreshing beverage, opt for a citrusy sparkling water or iced hibiscus tea; both enhance the taco experience without overpowering the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, tries blending a tropical smoothie with mango, pineapple, and coconut – it pairs perfectly with your tasty tacos!
By thoughtfully combining sides and drinks, you’ll impress your friends at your next gathering or simply enjoy a delicious meal that feels special.
Time Breakdown for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Preparation time
Spend about 15 minutes prepping your ingredients, from rinsing and drying the shrimp to whipping up that mouthwatering bang bang sauce. This is your time to shine—get creative with the slaw!
Cooking time
The cooking magic happens in the air fryer and takes approximately 14 minutes. In just under 15 minutes, you’ll have crispy shrimp ready to fill your tacos!
Total time
In under 30 minutes, you can enjoy delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that are sure to impress family or friends. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat!
Nutritional Facts for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Calories per taco
Each delicious taco packs approximately 200 calories, making it a balanced choice for lunch or dinner.
Protein content
You'll find about 15 grams of protein in each taco, thanks to the shrimp, which is crucial for muscle recovery and overall health.
Key nutrients to consider
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only flavorful but also rich in essential nutrients. They provide a good source of Vitamin C from the slaw and healthy fats from the mayonnaise, helping keep your meals both nutritious and satisfying. For more info on the benefits of shrimp, check out Pew Charitable Trusts for an in-depth look at seafood nutrition.
FAQ about Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
How do I store leftover shrimp tacos?
If you find yourself with extra Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, simply wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, store the filling and tortillas separately. Just reheat in your air fryer for a couple of minutes before enjoying them again!
Can I make the shrimp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the shrimp earlier in the day and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking; this helps them cook evenly.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If you're out of panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, or even crushed cornflakes for an extra crunch! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to satisfy your cravings without compromising on texture.
Feel free to drop any more questions you have in the comments below! Happy cooking!
Conclusion on Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
From the crispy, succulent shrimp to the zesty bang bang sauce, Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delightful treat any day of the week. Perfect for busy professionals, these tacos pair well with a fresh side salad or some tangy guacamole. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Equipment
- air fryer
- Bowls
Ingredients
For the Air Fryer Shrimp
- 1 lb large raw shrimp peeled, deveined & tail-off
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs preferably Japanese-style
- 0.5 cup tapioca flour or arrowroot starch or cornstarch
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
- kosher salt & black pepper
- cooking spray
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha more if you like it spicier
For the Slaw
- 8 oz coleslaw mix
- 0.25 cup chopped cilantro
- 0.25 cup chopped green onion
- 2 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 0.5 juice from lime
- squirt of sriracha
- kosher salt to taste
To Serve
- 10 flour tortillas
- chopped green onion
Instructions
Air Fryer Shrimp Preparation
- Pat the shrimp dry. Set up dredging station with 3 shallow bowls: one with tapioca flour and seasonings, second with breadcrumbs, and third with whisked eggs and a splash of water.
- Dip each shrimp into the tapioca flour, then the egg, and lastly the breadcrumbs. Place breaded shrimp in air fryer basket and spray the top with oil.
- Air fry the shrimp at 390F for 7 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the other side with oil.
Bang Bang Sauce and Slaw Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all bang bang sauce ingredients until smooth.
- In a large bowl, toss together all slaw ingredients to combine.
Assembling Tacos
- Once shrimp is done, add to a large bowl and pour bang bang sauce over, reserving some for garnish. Gently toss to coat the shrimp.
- Warm tortillas over an open flame, pan, or microwave. Assemble tacos with tortillas, slaw, shrimp, leftover bang bang sauce, and chopped green onion.
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