Shrimp Tacos
Authentic Shrimp Tacos Recipe from Mexico - Learn to Make Today!
Introduction
Shrimp tacos are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the crunch of coleslaw and the sweetness of mango. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a fun and festive dinner party.
History
Shrimp tacos have their origins in Mexican cuisine, where seafood is a popular ingredient in many dishes. The combination of shrimp, coleslaw, and mango in a taco shell is a modern twist on traditional Mexican flavors, creating a unique and tasty dish that is loved by many.
Ingredients
- shrimp
- jerk seasoning
- oil for sautéing
- diced mango
- coleslaw
- taco shells
How to prepare
- Sprinkle the peeled and deveined shrimp with jerk seasoning.
- Sauté them in a little oil until they are done.
- Add diced mango to the coleslaw.
- Spoon the shrimp into warm taco shells and top them with coleslaw.
Variations
- Use different seasonings for the shrimp, such as Cajun or Mexican spices.
- Swap out the mango for pineapple or avocado for a different flavor profile.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream on top of the tacos for extra tanginess.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to season the shrimp generously with jerk seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Sauté the shrimp quickly over high heat to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
- Mix the diced mango with the coleslaw just before serving to keep the mango fresh and juicy.
- Warm the taco shells in the oven or on the stovetop before assembling the tacos for a crispy and delicious base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve shrimp tacos with a side of Mexican rice and black beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Sauté the shrimp in a hot pan for a quick and easy cooking method that locks in the flavor and juiciness of the shrimp.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
- Substitute the coleslaw with a simple cabbage slaw or lettuce for a lighter option.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the shrimp and coleslaw mixture ahead of time and assemble the tacos just before serving for a quick and easy meal.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the shrimp tacos on a platter with a garnish of fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair shrimp tacos with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita for a perfect match of flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover shrimp tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 250 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 25g per serving
Fats
Fats: 10g per serving
Proteins
Proteins: 15g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium.
Alergens
Allergens: Shellfish
Summary
Shrimp tacos are a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious and delicious choice for any meal.
Summary
Shrimp tacos are a delicious and nutritious meal that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, they are a satisfying choice for any occasion. Enjoy these tasty tacos with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. I had always loved shrimp tacos, but I had never tried making them myself. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria's house. Maria was a fantastic cook, and she had graciously offered to teach me how to make one of her signature dishes.
As we stood in the kitchen, Maria pulled out all the ingredients we would need. Fresh shrimp, ripe avocados, crunchy cabbage, tangy limes, and spicy jalapenos. The colors and smells were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to get started.
Maria began by marinating the shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and chili powder. She explained that the key to great shrimp tacos was letting the shrimp soak up all the flavors before cooking them. As the shrimp sat in the marinade, we moved on to making the salsa.
We diced up ripe tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, and mixed them together with a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt. The freshness of the salsa was the perfect complement to the spicy shrimp.
Next, we sliced up the cabbage and mixed it with a little mayo and lime juice to make a crunchy slaw. Maria said that the slaw would add a nice texture to the tacos and help balance out the flavors.
Finally, it was time to cook the shrimp. Maria heated up a skillet and added a little oil before tossing in the marinated shrimp. The smell of sizzling garlic and chili filled the kitchen, and my mouth watered in anticipation.
Once the shrimp were cooked through and slightly charred, Maria began assembling the tacos. She warmed up the corn tortillas on a hot griddle and then piled them high with shrimp, salsa, slaw, and sliced avocado. The colors and textures were beautiful, and I couldn't believe how easy it was to make these delicious tacos.
As we sat down to eat, Maria watched me take my first bite with a smile. The flavors exploded in my mouth – spicy shrimp, tangy salsa, creamy avocado, and crunchy slaw all coming together in perfect harmony. I was in heaven.
From that day on, shrimp tacos became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I made them, I thought of Maria and the wonderful day we spent together in her kitchen.
Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to make it my own. I add a little extra garlic here, a splash of hot sauce there. I've even experimented with different types of seafood – fish, scallops, even lobster. But no matter how I change it up, the basic recipe remains the same – fresh, flavorful, and utterly delicious.
I like to think that every time I make shrimp tacos, Maria is there with me in spirit, guiding my hand and sharing in the joy of creating something wonderful. And I hope that one day, I can pass on this recipe to someone else, just as Maria did for me.
But for now, I'll continue to enjoy making shrimp tacos for the people I love, sharing the flavors and memories that make this recipe so special to me. And who knows – maybe one day, I'll be the one teaching someone else how to make shrimp tacos, passing on a tradition that started with a sense of excitement and a day spent in a friend's kitchen.