Get ready to transform your taco Tuesday into a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance! These Plantain Crusted Crispy Shrimp Tacos are not just a meal, they're a tropical sensation that combines the crunch of perfectly fried shrimp with the sweet, unique coating of ripe plantains. Imagine biting into a taco where golden, crispy shrimp meets soft corn tortillas, topped with fresh cabbage and creamy avocado - this isn't just dinner, it's a flavor journey that will transport you straight to a beachside Mexican restaurant.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe plantains
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the plantain coating: Peel the ripe plantains and grate them using a box grater or food processor until they form a coarse, slightly wet mixture.
- Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Toss until evenly coated.
- Create the plantain crust: Spread the grated plantain on a flat plate. Roll each seasoned shrimp in the plantain mixture, ensuring a complete and even coating.
- Prepare for frying: Heat a large skillet with oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal crispy results.
- Fry the shrimp: Carefully place the plantain-coated shrimp in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Drain and rest: Remove the fried shrimp and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for 30 seconds on each side until slightly charred and pliable.
- Assemble the tacos: Place shredded cabbage on each tortilla, top with the crispy plantain-crusted shrimp, and garnish with fresh avocado slices.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the tacos hot, with optional side of lime wedges or your favorite salsa for added flavor.
Tips
- Choose ripe plantains with black or deep yellow skin for the best coating consistency and natural sweetness.
- Ensure your oil is precisely at 350°F for the crispiest exterior without burning the plantain crust.
- Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to help the plantain coating adhere better.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying - this ensures each shrimp gets perfectly crispy and golden.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
- If you can't find ripe plantains, green plantains can work, but will provide a less sweet, more starchy coating.
- Warm tortillas just before serving to maintain their soft, pliable texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 180mg
