If you’re craving something bold and flavorful, these Spicy Cajun Shrimp Tacos are sure to hit the spot. The juicy shrimp, seasoned to perfection, pair beautifully with a fresh cilantro lime slaw that adds a zesty crunch to every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a lively get-together, these tacos are a delicious way to bring a little spice to your table.
Steps
- Mix together the Cajun spice blend by combining kosher salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and ancho chili powder in a medium bowl.
- Toss the raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp with the prepared spice blend until they are uniformly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a mixture of olive oil and butter.
- Once the butter begins to foam, place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 1-3 minutes.
- Flip the shrimp once and continue cooking for about another minute until they turn opaque.
- Serve the cooked shrimp on tortillas topped with Purple Cilantro Lime Coleslaw, garnished with sliced green onions, and lime wedges if desired.
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for squeezing)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ancho chili powder
Nutritional Values
Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 957mg | Potassium: 123mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 837IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 3mg
FAQ
- What is the best way to tell if the shrimp are cooked?
- Shrimp are done cooking when they turn from a translucent gray to an opaque color with pink or reddish hints. A good indicator is the crevice in the back of the shrimp; once the flesh there becomes opaque, the shrimp are ready.
- Can I use pre-mixed Cajun seasoning instead of making my own?
- Yes, you can substitute 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of pre-mixed Cajun seasoning, but be cautious and taste as you go because these blends can sometimes be saltier than homemade ones.
- What type of tortillas work best for these tacos?
- Both corn and flour tortillas can be used for Cajun Shrimp Tacos. It’s a matter of personal preference, so choose the type you enjoy most.
- What can I use as an alternative to Cilantro Citrus Coleslaw?
- Pineapple Coleslaw is a great alternative that pairs well with the spicy Cajun shrimp, adding a sweet and refreshing contrast.
- How can I prevent shrimp from becoming tough when cooking?
- To avoid overcooking, ensure the shrimp are cooked just until they turn opaque. Keeping an eye on the crevice where the vein was removed can help you determine when they’re perfectly cooked.
Tips
- When making the Cajun spice mix, consider creating a larger batch to store for future use. This way, you’ll have a convenient and flavorful seasoning ready for not only shrimp but also chicken, fish, and pork.
- Ensure the shrimp is cooked perfectly by watching closely as it turns from translucent to opaque. Remove from heat as soon as the color changes to avoid overcooking, which can make shrimp tough.
- Use a combination of olive oil and butter for cooking the shrimp to achieve a rich flavor and a nice sear. Be sure not to disturb the shrimp while cooking to allow them to develop a great crust.
- To complement the spicy shrimp, consider pairing them with a refreshing slaw such as Purple Cilantro Lime Coleslaw or Pineapple Coleslaw for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – If someone does not already have a large skillet suitable for searing shrimp, they may need to purchase one.
- Mixing Bowl – A medium mixing bowl for combining the Cajun spice blend and shrimp.
- Cooking Thermometer – Optional, but useful for ensuring the skillet is at the correct medium-high heat.
- Kitchen Tongs – Useful for flipping the shrimp without disturbing them too much.
- Spice Grinder or Mortar and Pestle – If making the Cajun spice blend from whole spices, these tools might be necessary.