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These shrimp tacos with mango salsa bring bright, fresh flavors that are perfect for a quick summer lunch or casual dinner. The honey chipotle seasoning gives the shrimp a sweet and smoky kick balanced by the juicy mango salsa on top of soft tortillas, making each bite a delightful contrast.
I first made this on a warm weekend and the combination was a hit with everyone at the table. Now it's a go-to when I want something flavorful but fuss-free.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: One pound deveined with tails removed for the best texture and easy eating
- Honey: Two tablespoons to create that perfect balance of sweetness in the marinade
- Chipotle seasoning: One tablespoon to provide smoky heat you can adjust this to suit your spice preference
- Fresh garlic: Two cloves minced to maximize flavor
- Tortillas: Eight corn or flour tortillas. Corn works well if you want to keep it gluten-free and authentic
- Mango: One cup ripe chopped for juicy sweetness and vibrancy
- Cucumber: One cup chopped to add crunch and freshness
- Red capsicum: One medium chopped for sweetness and color contrast
- Fresh cilantro: One quarter cup chopped to provide herbal brightness
- Fresh lime juice: Squeezed over the salsa to bring essential acidity and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Shrimp:
- Combine the shrimp, honey, chipotle seasoning, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl. Toss everything thoroughly so the shrimp is fully coated and let it sit for ten minutes to soak up the flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and sauté for three to five minutes stirring occasionally. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque to keep them tender.
- Prepare the Mango Salsa:
- While the shrimp cooks, chop the mango, cucumber, and red capsicum into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a separate bowl and mix with chopped cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice. This salsa should taste bright and fresh with a little tang.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or microwave them for 20 to 30 seconds until soft and pliable. Warm tortillas prevent tearing and help meld the flavors when assembled.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Divide the shrimp evenly among the tortillas. Spoon generous amounts of mango salsa on top. Add extra lime juice or cilantro if you want to boost the fresh notes right before serving.
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One of my favorite ingredients here is the chipotle seasoning. It adds a beautiful smoky depth without overpowering the sweetness from the honey and mango. These tacos remind me of backyard dinners shared with friends where everyone can build their own creations.
Storage Tips
Store leftover shrimp and mango salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The salsa holds up well for two to three days. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave but avoid overcooking. Leftover tortillas can be wrapped in foil and warmed again before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have chipotle seasoning use smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar smoky heat. You can swap red capsicum for fresh bell peppers of any color or even diced tomatoes for a lighter salsa. Shrimp can be replaced with cooked chicken or firm white fish if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tacos with a side of black beans or Mexican rice for a more filling meal. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of crema adds creaminess if you like. Fresh lime wedges alongside let everyone adjust brightness to their taste.
Cultural Context
Shrimp tacos are a popular choice in coastal Mexican cuisine with many regional variations. The addition of mango salsa reflects the abundant use of fresh tropical fruits in Mexican cooking, balancing spicy and savory flavors with sweetness and acidity.
Pro Tips
- Always dry your shrimp before marinating to help the seasoning stick better
- Don't skip warming the tortillas as it makes rolling and folding easier without cracking
- Toast your chipotle seasoning briefly in a dry pan to deepen its flavor before mixing with honey. I learned this the hard way!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of shrimp works best for this dish?
Use deveined, tail-off shrimp for easier eating and even cooking. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used after proper thawing.
- → Can I adjust the heat level in this dish?
Yes, modify the chipotle seasoning amount according to your spice tolerance or substitute with milder smoked paprika for less heat.
- → What tortillas are recommended?
Corn tortillas are preferred for authenticity and gluten-free options, but flour tortillas work well for a softer texture.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep shrimp and salsa separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat shrimp gently to avoid toughness and assemble just before serving.
- → Can the salsa be made in advance?
Yes, preparing the mango salsa ahead allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall freshness and taste.