Crispy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Shrimp Tacos are a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves a combination of crispy, juicy shrimp and fresh, zesty toppings. These tacos are a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, with the crunchy shrimp providing a satisfying bite, complemented by a medley of fresh ingredients. The soft taco shells, crunchy slaw, and creamy sauce bring everything together in a way that’s irresistible.

Whether you’re preparing them for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun Taco Tuesday celebration, or a gathering with friends, Crispy Shrimp Tacos are sure to impress. This recipe will guide you through the process of making these tasty tacos from scratch, with easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips for getting them just right. With plenty of options for customizing your toppings and sauces, these tacos are versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Shrimp Tacos

• Crispy, Juicy Shrimp: The shrimp are coated in a perfectly seasoned batter and fried to crispy perfection. They offer a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the inside stays tender and juicy.
• Fresh, Flavorful Toppings: These tacos are topped with a zesty cabbage slaw, a drizzle of tangy sauce, and your favorite taco garnishes. The fresh crunch and bright flavors balance out the richness of the shrimp.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of spice, add different toppings, or make your own sauce to fit your preferences. Whether you like a mild taco or something with a little more kick, this recipe is adaptable.
• Quick & Easy: Despite their gourmet taste, Crispy Shrimp Tacos are relatively simple to prepare. The shrimp cook quickly, and the toppings come together in minutes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual dinners to summer parties, these tacos fit the bill for any gathering. They’re a hit with both seafood lovers and those new to shrimp.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (approximately 8 tacos)
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per taco, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Crispy Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornmeal
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Taco Toppings:

• 8 small flour or corn tortillas (warm)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving

Creamy Sauce:

• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (or more for extra spice)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preparing the shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the batter stick better and ensure a crisp texture.

In a small bowl, pour the buttermilk (or regular milk with vinegar) and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the shrimp into the buttermilk mixture and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and adds flavor.

2. Prepare the Breading Station

While the shrimp soak, prepare the breading station. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. Mix the dry ingredients together until evenly combined.

3. Coat the Shrimp

Once the shrimp have soaked in the buttermilk, remove them from the mixture and let any excess liquid drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour-cornmeal mixture, making sure each shrimp is evenly coated. Then, press the shrimp into the panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.

Place the breaded shrimp on a plate or tray, and repeat with the remaining shrimp.

4. Prepare the Sauce

While the shrimp are resting, prepare the creamy sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the level of hot sauce according to your preference for spice. Set aside.

5. Fry the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of bread dropped into the oil sizzles immediately.

Working in batches, carefully add the breaded shrimp to the hot oil. Fry them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

6. Prepare the Toppings

While the shrimp are frying, prepare the taco toppings. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage with the lime juice, a pinch of salt, and chopped cilantro (if using). Toss to coat evenly.

Slice the avocado and red onion, and prepare any additional toppings like jalapeño slices and lime wedges.

7. Assemble the Tacos

To assemble the tacos, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable. Place about 2-3 crispy shrimp in the center of each tortilla. Top with the lime-spiked cabbage slaw, a drizzle of creamy sauce, avocado slices, red onion, and jalapeño slices (if using). Garnish with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

8. Serve

Serve the tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious, crispy shrimp tacos!

Tips for Perfect Crispy Shrimp Tacos

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp work well, but fresh shrimp have a better texture and taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches. Overcrowding the pan will cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy shrimp instead of crispy ones.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the shrimp breading and hot sauce in the creamy sauce to control the heat. If you prefer a milder taco, you can omit the cayenne and use less hot sauce.
• Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier coating than regular breadcrumbs. They help make the shrimp even crunchier.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy sauce and slaw in advance, but it’s best to fry the shrimp just before serving for maximum crispiness.

Variations of Crispy Shrimp Tacos

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Tacos: Add a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the breading mixture for a bold, spiced-up version of these tacos. Serve with a spicy sriracha mayo sauce for an extra kick.
• Tropical Shrimp Tacos: Add some diced pineapple or mango to your slaw for a tropical, sweet twist. The sweetness of the fruit balances perfectly with the heat from the shrimp and sauce.
• Baked Shrimp Tacos: If you’re looking for a healthier option, bake the breaded shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying them. Spray with cooking spray before baking to help them crisp up.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos: Skip the breading altogether and sauté the shrimp in garlic butter for a rich, flavorful taco. Add some freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness.

Storage and Shelf Life

Crispy Shrimp Tacos are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store the components separately:

• Shrimp: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
• Slaw: The slaw can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid adding the avocado until just before serving, as it will brown quickly.
• Sauce: Store the creamy sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Crispy Shrimp Tacos

These tacos pair well with a variety of side dishes and drinks:

• Mexican Rice: A classic side dish that complements the tacos’ flavors and adds a hearty element to the meal.
• Guacamole and Chips: Serve alongside freshly made guacamole and tortilla chips for a tasty appetizer or snack.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A smoky, charred corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime juice makes a perfect side for these tacos.
• Margaritas or Cold Beer: A chilled margarita or a refreshing cold beer is the ideal drink pairing for these crispy tacos. The citrus notes of a margarita balance the richness of the shrimp.

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Conclusion

Crispy Shrimp Tacos are a fun and flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With their crispy shrimp, fresh toppings, and creamy sauce, these tacos offer a satisfying blend of textures and flavors in every bite. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.

By following the simple steps and tips provided, you’ll be able to create restaurant-quality shrimp tacos at home that everyone will love. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the fun variations, these tacos are sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!