Fried shrimp tacos are a delightful combination of crispy, golden shrimp tucked into warm corn tortillas, topped with fresh, vibrant ingredients. These tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience! The crunch of the shrimp paired with the coolness of shredded cabbage and creamy avocado creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. What I love most about fried shrimp tacos is how they embody the lively spirit of Mexican cuisine, making them a favorite for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or a fun twist on taco night. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! They’re easy to make and even easier to customize with your favorite toppings, making them a go-to dish for any seafood lover.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How to Prepare Fried Shrimp Tacos
Making fried shrimp tacos is a fun and straightforward process! Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to crispy, delicious tacos that are sure to impress. You’ll want to start by preheating your oil. If you’re using a deep fryer or a large pot, bring the oil to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the shrimp. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crunch!
Preparing the Shrimp
First things first, let’s get those shrimp ready! In a bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend is going to give your shrimp an incredible flavor. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off before coating it in the flour mixture. Make sure each shrimp is fully covered; this is key to getting that satisfying crunch. I like to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the bowl, which ensures an even coating!
Frying the Shrimp
Once your oil is hot, carefully drop the shrimp in, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the temperature; if it drops too low, your shrimp won’t get that nice crispiness. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels. Remember, safety first—watch out for any oil splatters while frying!
Assembling the Tacos
Now comes the fun part—assembly! Warm your corn tortillas in a skillet for a few seconds on each side to make them pliable. Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, then pile on the shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, and a generous spoonful of salsa. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for that burst of flavor. The order matters! Starting with shrimp and adding the cool toppings last will help keep everything in place and create a beautiful presentation. Serve these tacos immediately and enjoy the symphony of flavors and textures!
Tips for Success
- Double fry for extra crunch: For an even crispier texture, fry the shrimp twice! After the first fry, let them rest for a minute, then fry them again for an additional minute or so until they’re perfectly golden.
- Experiment with salsas: Don’t hesitate to mix it up with different types of salsa! From a smoky chipotle salsa to a fresh mango salsa, the variations can really elevate your tacos.
- Add pickled red onions: For a tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the fried shrimp, try adding pickled red onions. They bring a delightful acidity that brightens up the whole dish!
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to tweak the seasoning in your flour mixture to suit your taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper will add a nice kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Keep everything warm: To ensure your tacos stay warm and the tortillas don’t dry out, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel as you assemble them. This little trick keeps them cozy and ready to serve!
Variations
One of the best things about fried shrimp tacos is how versatile they are! You can easily switch things up to create different flavor profiles that will keep your taste buds excited. Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Different Seafood: Why limit yourself to just shrimp? Try using crispy fried fish fillets or even calamari for a delightful twist! Each seafood type brings its own unique flavor and texture.
- Spicy Shrimp: If you’re a fan of heat, toss your shrimp in a spicy marinade before frying. A blend of chili powder, lime juice, and a touch of cayenne can add a fiery kick that pairs wonderfully with cooling toppings.
- Alternative Toppings: Mix and match your toppings! Consider using sliced radishes for a crunchy bite, diced mango for a sweet contrast, or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist. The sky’s the limit!
- Different Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with flour tortillas, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Each choice can change the overall feel of your taco.
- Flavorful Sauces: Instead of salsa, try drizzling your tacos with a creamy chipotle sauce, a zesty cilantro-lime crema, or even a tangy garlic aioli for a gourmet touch.
These variations make it easy to personalize your fried shrimp tacos for any occasion or flavor preference. So go ahead, get creative, and make this dish your own!
Nutritional Information
It’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. However, here’s a general breakdown per taco:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keep these numbers in mind as you enjoy your delicious fried shrimp tacos! They’re not just tasty but also a satisfying choice for a meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover fried shrimp tacos can be stored for later enjoyment, but it’s important to keep them crispy! To store, wrap any remaining tacos tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Try to eat them within 1-2 days for the best quality.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using an oven or an air fryer to maintain that delicious crunch. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tacos on a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don’t overcook. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tortillas soggy and the shrimp lose their crispy texture. With these tips, you’ll have tacos that taste almost as good as when they were first made!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before coating. This helps to ensure a crispy texture when frying.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using!
How can I make these tacos less spicy?
To tone down the spice, simply adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture. You can also use a milder salsa or skip the paprika if you prefer a more subtle flavor.
What sides pair well with fried shrimp tacos?
These tacos are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with sides like Mexican street corn, a fresh avocado salad, or some homemade tortilla chips with guacamole!
Can I make the shrimp ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve them fresh for maximum crunch, you can prepare the shrimp and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. Just be sure to coat them right before frying to keep them crispy!
Your Next Steps
Now that you’ve got the scoop on making the most delicious fried shrimp tacos, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try! Trust me, once you start frying up those crispy shrimp and layering on your favorite toppings, you’re going to be in taco heaven. Don’t forget to share your taco creations in the comments below or tag me on social media—I’d love to see your delicious results!
Feel free to explore different variations and make this recipe your own. Whether you go for a spicy twist or a fresh, fruity salsa, each taco can be a new adventure. Cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t hold back! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
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Fried shrimp tacos: 5 simple steps to crispy delight!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 tacos 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy fried shrimp tacos with fresh toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Preheat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
- In a bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip shrimp in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture.
- Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove shrimp and drain on paper towels.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet.
- Assemble tacos by placing shrimp on tortillas, topping with cabbage, avocado, salsa, and cilantro.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double fry the shrimp.
- Use a variety of salsas for different flavor profiles.
- Try adding pickled red onions for acidity.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: fried shrimp tacos, seafood tacos, Mexican cuisine
