There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that brings the comfort of home cooking while still feeling like a restaurant indulgence. That’s exactly what you get with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos topped with crispy fried avocado. The moment you take your first bite, you’re greeted with the crunchy texture of the fried avocado, perfectly contrasting the tender, flavorful shrimp, all dancing in a spicy-sweet sauce that elevates every element.
Whether you’re winding down after a long workday or looking to impress friends at your next gathering, this recipe is your go-to solution. It’s quick and simple, yet it packs a punch in both flavor and aesthetics. Trust me; once you try these tacos, they’ll become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So grab your aprons and let’s whip up a restaurant-style feast that you can easily make at home!
Why are Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: Each taco bursts with a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce that makes every bite divine.
Crispy Delight: The fried avocado adds an irresistible crunch, elevating the entire taco experience.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you’ll have these tacos ready in no time!
Versatile Option: Whether you stick with shrimp or try a plant-based protein, the choices are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, your guests will rave about this unique twist on a classic favorite.
Don’t miss out on the chance to impress your family and friends with these delectable tacos!
Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos Ingredients
• A simple list of must-have ingredients to create these delightful tacos!
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Olive Oil Mayo – Serves as the creamy base; regular mayo or yogurt can be used as substitutes.
- Sweet Thai Chili Sauce – Provides that essential sweet and spicy flavor; adjust to taste for sweetness.
- Hot Sauce – For an added kick; choose your favorite brand or adjust according to spice preference.
- Flaky Sea Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; use sparingly to taste.
- Lime – Adds brightness; zest for the sauce and serve quarters for squeezing over.
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp (1 pound) – The star protein, peeled and deveined; feel free to swap with chicken or tofu for a tasty alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/3 cup) – For dredging; opt for gluten-free flour if needed.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder – These seasonings deepen the flavor of the shrimp coating.
For the Fried Avocado
- Panko Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup) – Creates a deliciously crispy coating; verify gluten-free status if needed.
- Sesame Seeds (3 tablespoons) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor; a mix of white and black is visually appealing.
- Egg (1, beaten) – Acts as a binder for the Panko coating.
- Avocados (2, sliced) – Offer creaminess; select ripe but firm avocados for best frying results.
- Avocado Oil (or Peanut Oil, 4 tablespoons) – Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point.
For Serving
- Warm Tortillas (12) – Choose corn or flour based on your preference.
- Shredded Cabbage and Cilantro – Fresh toppings that add color, crunch, and zesty flavor to each taco.
Dive into these Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos—they’re guaranteed to impress!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos
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Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, hot sauce, and lime zest. Taste and season lightly with flaky sea salt for a balanced flavor.
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Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour with onion powder and garlic powder. Dredge each shrimp in this mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated for that perfect crunch.
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Prepare the Avocado: In a different bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with sesame seeds. Dip each avocado slice into the beaten egg, then generously coat with the Panko mixture to achieve a crispy exterior.
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Fry the Avocado: Heat 3 tablespoons of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the avocado slices until golden brown, approximately 1-2 minutes per side. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of flaky sea salt right after!
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Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil if needed, and sear the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re beautifully pink. Toss them gently with half of the bang bang sauce for extra flavor.
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Assemble Tacos: In warmed tortillas, layer a bed of shredded cabbage and cilantro. Add the crispy fried avocado slices and topped shrimp, then drizzle with the remaining bang bang sauce to finish.
Optional: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos
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Room Temperature: Tacos are best enjoyed fresh, so avoid keeping them at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain quality and flavor.
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Fridge: Store leftover shrimp and fried avocado separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This helps keep the shrimp moist and the avocado crispy.
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Freezer: You can freeze cooked shrimp (without the fried avocado) for up to 2 months. Ensure they are in a well-sealed container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy. Avoid reheating avocado as it may become soggy. Assemble your tacos fresh for the best experience!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Fried Avocado?
A delightful taco night deserves an array of delicious sides and accompaniments to create a complete and satisfying meal.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries add a savory contrast, balancing the spicy shrimp with their natural sweetness.
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Mango Salsa: The bright and zesty flavors of mango salsa enhance your tacos, bringing in a refreshing tropical twist with every bite.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy coleslaw can complement the creamy avocado and spicy shrimp, offering a delightful texture contrast.
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Chilled Corn Salad: This salad brings in fresh, sweet corn and vibrant veggies, adding a burst of color and flavor, perfect for summer dinners.
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Black Bean Rice: Served warm, this hearty side adds a protein boost while soaking up any extra bang bang sauce, ensuring every morsel counts.
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Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice: With its creamy texture and bright lime notes, this rice dish elevates your tacos and provides a delightful flavor base.
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Fizzy Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade enhances the spicy experience, balancing flavors and providing a thirst-quenching option for the evening.
Pairing these delightful sides with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Fried Avocado creates a memorable dining experience that will surely impress family and friends!
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Enhance your culinary adventure with these exciting twists on Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces; marinate in the bang bang sauce for extra flavor.
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Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian twist, replace shrimp with crispy tofu cubes, coated in the same seasoning mix for texture.
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Gluten-Free Flour: Use gluten-free flour for dredging the shrimp to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Avocado: Add a slice of jalapeño or sprinkle cayenne on the fried avocado for an unexpected heat boost.
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Pineapple Salsa: Top with a fresh pineapple salsa for a sweet and tangy contrast, elevating each bite with a tropical flair.
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Cabbage Slaw Remix: Create a spicy slaw by mixing shredded cabbage with lime juice, sriracha, and cilantro for an additional zing.
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Mexican Twist: Incorporate a chipotle mayo instead of traditional bang bang sauce for a smoky flavor profile.
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Crunchy Veggie Addition: Toss in some crispy fried shallots as a topping for added texture and a burst of flavor.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying the avocado. This prevents sogginess and achieves the perfect crispy texture.
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Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the bang bang sauce to your taste. Start with a little and add more if you prefer a spicier kick.
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Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the avocado and shrimp in batches to avoid steaming; this ensures a crispy finish for both the fried avocado and shrimp.
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Plan for Freshness: Assemble tacos just before serving to keep the tortillas warm and crisp while preventing sogginess from the sauce.
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Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free option, swap out regular flour for a gluten-free alternative in the shrimp dredging step.
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Mix Up Your Proteins: For added variety, consider swapping shrimp for chicken or a plant-based protein like tofu, making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos versatile for all diets.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the bang bang sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply combine olive oil mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, hot sauce, and lime zest, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp can be seasoned and dredged in flour up to 24 hours ahead of time; make sure to keep them covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. For the fried avocado, prepare the Panko coating and slice the avocados the day before, refrigerating them in an airtight container—just remember to coat them in egg and Panko just before frying to ensure they stay crispy. When you’re ready to serve, fry the avocado and shrimp as instructed, assemble your tacos, and you’ll have a delicious meal that feels just as fresh as when made on the spot!
Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of avocado should I use for frying?
Absolutely! For frying, it’s best to choose ripe but firm avocados. This ensures they hold their shape during frying while providing the creamy richness you want in each bite. Look for avocados that yield slightly to pressure but aren’t mushy, as overly ripe ones can turn mushy in the oil.
How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Very! Store leftover shrimp and fried avocado separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keeping them separate helps maintain the tender shrimp and crispy avocado texture. Just ensure you assemble your tacos fresh to enjoy their best qualities!
Can I freeze cooked Bang Bang shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Be sure to place them in a well-sealed container or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crispy. Keep in mind that it’s best not to freeze the fried avocado, as it may lose its crispiness.
What if my sauce is too spicy?
No worries! If your bang bang sauce ends up being too spicy, you can tone it down by adding more olive oil mayo or a dollop of yogurt to balance the heat. Mixing in a little more sweet Thai chili sauce can also help tone down the spiciness while maintaining flavor. Always taste as you go, and remember, you can always add more spice later!
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a delightful vegetarian option, simply skip the shrimp and opt for black beans or roasted vegetables instead. You can also try using tofu for a protein-rich substitution. The bang bang sauce works wonderfully with all these variations, so you won’t miss out on the flavor!
How can I ensure my avocado stays crispy when frying?
For crispy fried avocado, ensure that your oil is hot enough before adding the slices. A good temperature indicates that a breadcrumb will sizzle upon contact. Fry them for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown, and don’t overcrowd the pan! This will help keep them crunchy and avoid steaming. Enjoy that satisfying crunch!
Bang Bang Shrimp and Fried Avocado Tacos for Taco Night Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, hot sauce, and lime zest. Taste and season lightly with flaky sea salt.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour with onion powder and garlic powder. Dredge each shrimp in this mixture.
- Prepare the Avocado: In a different bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with sesame seeds. Dip avocado slices into the beaten egg, then coat with the Panko mixture.
- Fry the Avocado: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry avocado slices until golden brown, approximately 1-2 minutes per side.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add oil if needed and sear the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes. Toss with half of the bang bang sauce.
- Assemble Tacos: In warmed tortillas, layer shredded cabbage and cilantro, followed by crispy fried avocado and shrimp, then drizzle with remaining bang bang sauce.