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Crispy Shrimp Tacos with Zesty Cilantro Lime Slaw

crispy shrimp tacos - featured image

These crispy shrimp tacos feature a light, crunchy batter and a fresh, tangy cilantro lime slaw, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup cold sparkling water
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or peanut oil preferred)
  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise (vegan mayo optional)
  • 1 tsp honey or agave syrup
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
  • Optional: sliced avocado, lime wedges, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Prep the slaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrot, and chopped cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour dressing over veggies and toss well. Refrigerate while preparing shrimp.
  2. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, mix flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add beaten egg and slowly whisk in cold sparkling water until batter is smooth and thick enough to coat shrimp. Keep batter cold.
  3. Prepare the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
  4. Heat the oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a frying pan or skillet. Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the shrimp: Dip shrimp into batter, letting excess drip off. Fry shrimp in hot oil in a single layer without overcrowding, about 2 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels or wire rack.
  6. Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp towel until soft.
  7. Assemble the tacos: Place shrimp on tortillas, top with cilantro lime slaw, and add optional avocado slices or lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep batter cold and use sparkling water for a light, airy coating. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for best crispiness. Pat shrimp dry before battering. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Toss slaw just before serving to keep it crisp. Leftovers should be stored separately and reheated carefully to maintain texture.

Nutrition

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