Tasty Fried Shrimp Tacos: Crispy, Flavorful, and Irresistible

If you’re a fan of crispy, golden shrimp and the comforting crunch of a perfectly fried taco, these Fried Shrimp Tacos are for you! Packed with flavor and ready in just 25 minutes, these tacos are a delicious way to turn an ordinary weeknight into something special. Topped with a tangy slaw and drizzled with creamy sauce, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy. Let’s get cooking!

Key Benefits

Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Quick and easy: Ready in 25 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Crispy and satisfying: Golden fried shrimp with a perfect crunch.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or sauces.
• Family-friendly: A hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Slaw:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

For Serving:

• 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

1. Prep the Shrimp:
   • In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
   • Dip the shrimp in buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Fry the Shrimp:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 375°F (190°C).
   • Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Slaw:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Toss the shredded cabbage in the dressing until well-coated.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce (if using), and garlic powder.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
   • Layer each tortilla with slaw, fried shrimp, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Air fryer option: For a lighter version, air fry the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
• Spice it up: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicier kick.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for dredging.
• Add toppings: Try avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these tacos with:

• Mexican street corn or a side of black beans.
• A refreshing mango salsa or guacamole.
• A cold margarita or lime-infused sparkling water.

Conclusion

These Fried Shrimp Tacos are a delicious way to enjoy crispy, golden shrimp in a fun and flavorful package. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, they’re sure to impress. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media. For more quick and tasty recipes, subscribe to our blog!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw the shrimp in cold water before cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store the shrimp, slaw, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep the slaw and sauce ahead, and fry the shrimp just before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat the shrimp?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.

Recipe Recap

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 380 per serving

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)