Introduction
Prawn or shrimp tacos are a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures, making them a favorite among seafood lovers. This recipe features a zesty marinade for the prawns, a crunchy slaw, and a creamy pink taco sauce. Perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, these tacos will tantalize your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Prawn/Shrimp Taco Marinade:
– 500g/1 lb medium prawns/shrimp, peeled (frozen thawed, or 1 kg / 2 lb unpeeled whole)
– Zest of 1 lime (or lemon)
– 1/4 cup lime juice (or lemon)
– 1 tbsp chipotle powder (medium spicy, can reduce to 2 tsp for mild)
– 2 tbsp coriander/cilantro, finely chopped (sub chives)
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
Taco Slaw:
– 8 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about 1/4 head)
– 1/2 onion, very finely chopped (brown, yellow, or white)
– 3/4 cup plain yogurt (like Greek), unsweetened
– 1/4 cup coriander/cilantro, finely chopped (sub chives)
– 1/4 cup lime juice (or lemon)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
Pink Taco Sauce:
– 3/4 cup sour cream (or yogurt)
– 2 – 3 tbsp sriracha, adjust to taste
To Cook & Serve:
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 12 – 15 small tortillas (corn or flour), warmed or charred per packet
– Lime wedges (highly recommended)
– Coriander/cilantro, roughly chopped
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (3 tacos per serving)
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the following ingredients: 500g medium prawns/shrimp (peeled), zest of 1 lime, 1/4 cup lime juice, 1 tbsp chipotle powder, 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander/cilantro, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup olive oil, and 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
Marinate the Prawns
Add the prawns to the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Allow the prawns to marinate for 20 minutes. If short on time, even a 5-minute soak will suffice.
Warm Serving Bowl
Prepare a serving bowl by warming it. This can be done by placing it in the microwave for 1 minute or by rinsing it with hot water and drying it.
Cook the Prawns
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add half of the marinated prawns to the skillet. Cook the prawns for 60 seconds on each side until they are cooked through. If using a BBQ, cook on high heat, suggesting double skewering for easy rotation.
Transfer the Cooked Prawns
Once cooked, transfer the prawns to the warmed serving bowl and loosely cover with foil to keep warm. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining prawns.
Prepare the Taco Slaw
In a very large bowl, combine 8 cups finely shredded green cabbage, 1/2 finely chopped onion, 3/4 cup plain yogurt, 1/4 cup finely chopped coriander/cilantro, 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, and 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper. Toss the ingredients together well, using your hands for an even mix if preferred.
Let the Slaw Rest
Set the taco slaw aside for at least 1 hour to allow the cabbage to wilt and become floppy. The slaw can be refrigerated and will keep for up to 3 days.
Make the Pink Taco Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine 3/4 cup sour cream (or yogurt) with 2-3 tbsp sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your taste for spice. Mix well until combined; the sour cream will thin the more it’s mixed.
Prepare Tortillas and Serve
Warm or char 12-15 small tortillas according to the packet instructions. Serve the cooked prawns alongside the taco slaw, pink taco sauce, and lime wedges. Optionally, sprinkle roughly chopped coriander/cilantro over the top for garnish.
Notes
Chipotle Powder
Finding chipotle powder may be challenging in some regions. If you can’t find it in major supermarkets, look for it in fruit & vegetable stores, delicatessens, or specialty gourmet stores. Online ordering is also possible from specific suppliers. Alternatives include mixing smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper or using chipotle in adobo sauce, which is widely available.
Sriracha Substitute
Sriracha is a popular Asian chili sauce that can be found in most grocery stores. If unsure about spiciness, feel free to substitute with ketchup either partially or completely to tone down the heat.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional calculations per serving (which includes 3 tacos per serving for a total of 4 servings) are higher than actual consumption, as it assumes all of the pink taco sauce is used and doesn’t account for the yogurt that gathers in the bowl after serving.
Cook techniques
Marinating Prawns/Shrimp
Combine lime zest, lime juice, chipotle powder, coriander, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the prawns/shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for 5 to 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cooking Prawns/Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Cook the marinated prawns/shrimp for 60 seconds on each side. If using a BBQ, consider double skewering for easier flipping. Keep cooked prawns/shrimp warm until serving.
Preparing Taco Slaw
In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, finely chopped onion, yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, coriander, salt, and pepper. Toss well with hands to mix, then let sit for at least one hour to allow the cabbage to soften.
Making Pink Taco Sauce
Mix sour cream and Sriracha together in a bowl. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to your preferred spice level. The sauce will become looser the more it’s mixed.
Warming Tortillas
Warm small tortillas by either heating them in a pan, microwave, or on a grill. This makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen prawns/shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, both frozen and fresh prawns/shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are properly thawed before marinating.
What can I substitute for chipotle powder?
If chipotle powder is unavailable, you can use a combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper, or substitute with chipotle in adobo sauce.
How long can I keep the taco slaw?
The taco slaw can be kept for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, and its flavor improves as it sits.
Can I make the pink taco sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the pink taco sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How can I reduce the spiciness of the taco sauce?
To decrease the heat, you can reduce the amount of Sriracha or substitute some or all of it with ketchup.
Conclusion
The Prawn/Shrimp Tacos with their zesty marinade, crunchy slaw, and creamy pink taco sauce create a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This dish is not only vibrant and refreshing but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Grilled Fish Tacos
Use the same marinade for white fish like cod or tilapia instead of prawns for a different seafood twist.
Vegetable Tacos
Replace the prawns with grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, and add the same slaw and sauce for a vegetarian option.
Chicken Tacos
Marinate chicken strips in the same marinade and serve with the taco slaw and pink sauce for a tasty chicken taco experience.
Quinoa Tacos
Use cooked quinoa mixed with the taco slaw as a filling for a healthy, plant-based taco alternative.
Shrimp Burrito Bowl
Serve the marinated shrimp over rice or quinoa, topped with slaw, pink taco sauce, and additional toppings like avocado or pico de gallo for a burrito bowl option.
Nacho Platter
Use the marinated prawns and slaw as toppings for a loaded nacho platter, adding cheese, jalapeños, and any other toppings you love.
Spicy Taco Salad
Create a salad with the taco slaw, marinated shrimp, and a drizzle of pink sauce, served over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh and crunchy meal.
