Go Back
Crispy shrimp tacos garnished with cilantro lime slaw on a plate.

Crispy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Enjoy delicious crispy shrimp tacos topped with a refreshing cilantro lime slaw. This easy recipe combines succulent shrimp and a zesty slaw in warm tortillas for a perfect meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the shrimp
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup buttermilk For soaking the shrimp
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for spiciness
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
For the slaw
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime Juice of 1 lime Adds flavor to slaw
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, soak the peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. After soaking, dredge each shrimp in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
  4. In a large skillet, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Check temperature by dropping in a bit of the coating; it should sizzle.
Cooking
  1. Carefully fry the coated shrimp in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and mayonnaise. Season with salt.
Assembly
  1. Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave.
  2. Place 2-3 crispy shrimp in each tortilla and top with a generous amount of cilantro lime slaw.
  3. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers; the shrimp will stay crispy for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer, not the microwave.