Fried shrimp tacos​

Introduction: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

If you’re craving a flavorful, easy-to-make, and versatile dish that’s perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings, these Crispy Fried Shrimp Tacos are the answer! Imagine warm tortillas filled with golden, crispy shrimp topped with fresh veggies, creamy sauces, and a zesty hint of lime. This recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to try something new, these tacos strike the perfect balance between crunch, zest, and freshness.

If you love the crunch of fried shrimp in these tacos, you might also enjoy our Crispy Chicken Wraps for another quick and satisfying meal option.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through every step to make mouthwatering fried shrimp tacos that you can customize to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Fried Shrimp Tacos

1. Crispy and Flavorful Shrimp: The shrimp are seasoned and fried to golden perfection, giving each bite an irresistible crunch.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is great for weeknight dinners or last-minute meal prep.
3. Customizable Toppings: From fresh pico de gallo to creamy slaw, these tacos can be tailored to your favorite flavors and dietary preferences.
4. Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties, taco nights, or casual dinners with friends and family.
5. Kid-Friendly: The crispy shrimp and mild seasonings make it a hit with younger eaters too.

Key Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the flavor and texture of these shrimp tacos. Here’s a closer look:

The Fried Shrimp:

• Shrimp: Use medium to large-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined. Shrimp cook quickly and provide a delicious, protein-packed base.
• Flour: Helps create a light and crispy coating when frying.
• Cornstarch: Adds extra crunch to the batter for a golden, crisp texture.
• Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, and Pepper): Enhance the shrimp’s natural flavor with just the right amount of spice.
• Egg: Binds the coating to the shrimp, ensuring even coverage.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Deliver that perfect crunchy texture every time.
• Oil for Frying: Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil work best for frying.

For the Toppings:

• Cabbage Slaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and a touch of sweetness. Use green, purple, or a mix of both.
• Pico de Gallo: A zesty topping made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
• Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado balances out the crispiness of the shrimp.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime elevates the flavors and adds brightness.
• Sauce: A creamy cilantro lime sauce or spicy chipotle mayo pairs perfectly with the tacos.

For the Tortillas:

• Tortillas: Soft corn or flour tortillas work well as the base for your tacos. Choose your favorite or make them from scratch!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to make the best fried shrimp tacos. Feel free to check each item as you gather your ingredients!

Fried Shrimp

• 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Toppings

• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green, purple, or mixed)
• ½ cup pico de gallo
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges for serving
• Sauce of your choice (e.g., cilantro lime crema, chipotle mayo)

Tortillas

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make perfectly crispy shrimp tacos that will wow everyone at the table.

1. Prepare the Shrimp

1. Clean the Shrimp:
   • If your shrimp aren’t prepped, start by peeling and deveining them.
   • To devein, use a paring knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark vein using the tip of the knife.
   • Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold water and pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp ensure the coating adheres better.
   • Pro Tip: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly submerge them in a bowl of cold water for 20 minutes.
2. Season the Shrimp:
   • Lightly season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a small pinch of paprika before breading. This adds an extra layer of flavor directly to the shrimp.

2. Set Up the Breading Station

1. Prepare Three Bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk one large egg with a tablespoon of water until frothy. This ensures even coating.
   • Bowl 3: Place panko breadcrumbs. For extra flavor, you can mix in a bit of dried parsley or additional paprika.
2. Keep It Neat:
   • Use one hand for wet ingredients (egg) and the other for dry (flour and breadcrumbs). This keeps your hands clean and prevents clumping in the breading.

3. Bread the Shrimp

1. Coat with Flour Mixture:
   • Take one shrimp at a time and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off excess flour to prevent a thick, uneven coating.
2. Dip in Egg Wash:
   • Next, dip the shrimp into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off before moving to the breadcrumbs.
3. Coat with Panko:
   • Finally, roll the shrimp in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to all sides. For maximum crispiness, press the shrimp firmly but don’t crush them.

4. Heat the Oil

1. Choose the Right Pan:
   • Use a deep skillet or pot to reduce splatter and ensure even frying. A cast-iron skillet works well due to its even heat distribution.
2. Heat the Oil:
   • Add about 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil to your skillet. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F to 375°F. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
   • Don’t have a thermometer? Drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles and turns golden in 10 seconds, the oil is ready.
   • Want to perfect your frying technique? Check out our tips in the Deep-Fried Hamburger guide.

5. Fry the Shrimp

1. Fry in Batches:
   • Carefully lower a few shrimp into the hot oil using tongs. Fry them in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy shrimp.
   • Cook for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally until the shrimp are golden brown and crisp.
2. Drain Excess Oil:
   • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate. This absorbs excess oil and keeps the shrimp crispy.
   • Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the shrimp immediately after frying for extra flavor.
3. Keep Shrimp Warm:
   • Place the cooked shrimp on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to stay warm while you fry the remaining batches.

6. Prepare the Toppings and Tortillas

1. Make the Cabbage Slaw:
   • Toss shredded cabbage with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
2. Warm the Tortillas:
   • Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven. This enhances the flavor and prevents cracking when assembling the tacos.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Layer each tortilla with 3–4 crispy shrimp, a generous amount of cabbage slaw, pico de gallo, avocado slices, and your favorite sauce.
4. Finish with Lime:
   • Squeeze a lime wedge over the top of each taco just before serving for a burst of brightness.

Variations

Make these fried shrimp tacos your own with these creative ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Low-Carb: Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps and skip the breading on the shrimp. For inspiration, try our Greek Chicken Salad recipe, which is light, healthy, and delicious.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or drizzle spicy sriracha over the tacos.
• Vegan Option: Use crispy battered cauliflower or tofu instead of shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your shrimp tacos with these complementary sides and drinks for a complete meal:

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): A creamy, cheesy corn on the cob is the perfect side. Pair it with our Mexican Street Corn Casserole for an authentic touch.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: A flavorful and light accompaniment to the tacos.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing way to balance the savory flavors.
• Drinks: Serve with a chilled sparkling water, lemonade, or a virgin mojito.

Tips for the Best Fried Shrimp Tacos

1. Choose the Best Shrimp

• Size Matters: Use medium to large shrimp for the best texture and bite. Small shrimp can overcook quickly and lose their juiciness.
• Fresh or Frozen?: Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work just as well. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

2. Nail the Breading

• Layer the Flavors: Season each layer of the breading process (flour mixture, egg wash, and breadcrumbs) for maximum flavor.
• Panko for Extra Crispiness: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter and crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs. Don’t skip this step!

3. Fry Like a Pro

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the shrimp will burn.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the shrimp in small batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan can also cause uneven cooking.

4. Perfect the Toppings

• Cabbage Slaw: For added flavor, mix the shredded cabbage with a pinch of cumin or chili powder in addition to lime juice.
• Avocado: Use ripe but firm avocados. Overripe avocados can be too mushy and difficult to slice.
• Custom Sauce: If you’re feeling creative, make your own sauce by blending Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and a touch of honey.

5. Presentation Tips

• Build Tacos Strategically: Start with the shrimp as the base, followed by slaw, pico de gallo, and avocado slices. Drizzle the sauce over the top for a visually appealing presentation.
• Garnish for Extra Appeal: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime over the tacos for a fresh and vibrant finish.

6. Storage and Reheating

• Leftover Shrimp: Store fried shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Toppings: Store toppings like slaw and pico de gallo separately to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Benefits of This Fried Shrimp Tacos

• Fast and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick meal.
• Versatile: Suitable for various dietary preferences and customizable with different toppings.
• Healthy Option: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making these tacos a guilt-free indulgence.
• Perfect for Entertaining: These tacos are fun, interactive, and sure to be a hit at gatherings.

Why Do You Soak Shrimp in Milk Before Frying?

Tenderizes the Shrimp
Soaking shrimp in milk helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a softer texture after frying.

Neutralizes Odors
Milk can neutralize the briny or fishy smell of shrimp, making them taste fresher.

Enhances Flavor Absorption
Milk acts as a mild marinade, helping the shrimp absorb any seasonings better during the cooking process.

How to Soak Shrimp in Milk Before Frying

• Clean and devein the shrimp.
• Submerge the shrimp in a bowl of milk for about 20-30 minutes.
• Drain the shrimp, pat them dry, and season them as desired before frying.

What Goes Well With Shrimp Tacos?

Sides for Shrimp Tacos

1. Mexican Rice: A classic side that complements the flavors of shrimp tacos.
2. Black Beans or Refried Beans: Add protein and richness to the meal.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob with lime, cotija cheese, and chili powder.
4. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy avocado dip adds a refreshing touch.
5. Slaw: Cabbage slaw with lime dressing offers crunch and tanginess.

Toppings for Shrimp Tacos

• Fresh Pico de Gallo or Salsa
• Avocado or Guacamole
• Shredded Cabbage or Lettuce
• Cilantro and Lime Juice
• Spicy Aioli or Cream Sauce

What Is in Kylie Jenner Shrimp Tacos?

Kylie Jenner’s shrimp tacos gained popularity after she shared a recipe online. Here’s what typically goes into her version:

Ingredients

• Shrimp: Seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
• Tortillas: Usually small corn tortillas, lightly toasted.
• Sauce: A spicy and creamy sauce made with mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice.
• Toppings: Shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, and fresh lime wedges for garnish.

How to Make Them

1. Sauté the seasoned shrimp until cooked.
2. Warm the tortillas and layer them with lettuce, shrimp, and avocado.
3. Drizzle with the spicy sauce and serve immediately.

Are Shrimp Tacos Better on Corn or Flour?

Corn Tortillas

• Authenticity: Corn tortillas are traditional for tacos, offering an authentic Mexican experience.
• Flavor: Their earthy flavor complements shrimp perfectly.
• Texture: Corn tortillas are soft yet slightly chewy, ideal for smaller tacos.
• Dietary Needs: Naturally gluten-free.

Flour Tortillas

• Softness: Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable, making them easier to fold without breaking.
• Neutral Flavor: They allow the shrimp and toppings to shine without competing flavors.
• Size: Flour tortillas come in larger sizes, ideal for heartier tacos.

Verdict

• Choose corn tortillas for an authentic and flavorful experience.
• Opt for flour tortillas if you prefer a larger, softer base.

Conclusion

Crispy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, these Fried Shrimp Tacos are an absolute must-try for any taco lover. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick family dinner, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe has it all.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations! Post your photos on social media or leave a comment below with your favorite toppings and twists. Your taco adventure awaits!