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Blackened Shrimp Tacos

Blackened Shrimp Tacos

Craving a burst of flavor? Try these Blackened Shrimp Tacos with vibrant dragonfruit salsa and creamy avocado sauce! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, they'll impress anyone with their delicious taste and stunning presentation. Make them tonight!
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup masa harina flour
  • 1 tablespoon dragonfruit powder sifted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 to 2/3 cup warm water
  • 1 large dragonfruit (or half red and half white), flesh scooped out and cut into cubes (about 2 cups cubed)
  • 1 medium jalapeno seeded, deveined and finely minced (about 2 tablespoons minced)
  • 1/4 medium red onion finely chopped (about 1/3 cup chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro packed, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest from 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice from 1 lime
  • 1/2 teaspoon fleur de sel or flake sea salt (1/4 teaspoon if using fine or table salt)
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 ripe avocado flesh scooped out and pit discarded
  • 2 tablespoons greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (you can also use all yogurt or all sour cream if you prefer)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons milk more or less as needed
  • 1 pound medium/small shrimp (51-60 size), peeled and deveined
  • 4 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • vegetable oil for cooking

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Skillet
  • Frying Pan
  • Peeler
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together masa harina, dragonfruit powder, and salt. Gradually add 1/2 cup warm water, mixing well. Knead the dough until it comes together into a ball. Depending on the brand of masa, you may need to add more water, aiming for a soft and pliable dough that is not sticky.
  2. Divide the dough into 8 equal balls, each weighing about 35 grams. Place them on a plate and lightly cover with plastic wrap or a tea towel. Let the dough rest for 15 to 20 minutes to allow it to hydrate.
  3. Prepare your tortilla press by placing two pieces of plastic or parchment inside. Take one ball of dough and place it between the layers. Press down firmly to flatten it into a circle about 5 inches in diameter. If you prefer thinner tortillas, you can roll it out further with a rolling pin.
  4. To cook the tortillas, preheat a flat skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the hot pan and cook for about 45 seconds, then flip and cook for another 45 seconds. The tortilla should lighten in color and have a stippled texture but should not brown.
  5. Transfer the cooked tortilla to a plate and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it warm and pliable. Repeat the cooking process for the remaining tortillas.
  6. If you have any leftover tortillas, store them in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Rewarm them before serving.
  7. For the dragonfruit salsa, combine dragonfruit, jalapeno, red onion, cilantro, and lime zest in a medium bowl. If using both types of dragonfruit, consider adding the red one just before serving to maintain its color. Add lime juice, salt, and chili powder, tossing to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  8. In a blender, combine avocado, greek yogurt, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth, adding milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Transfer the sauce to a small bowl and refrigerate until serving.
  9. Prepare your shrimp by ensuring they are peeled, deveined, and laid out on a paper towel-lined plate. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
  10. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Generously coat the shrimp in the spice mixture, ensuring even coverage on both sides.
  11. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add vegetable oil and allow it to get shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and have browned slightly on the edges.
  12. To assemble the tacos, arrange warm tortillas on serving plates. Spoon the avocado cream down the center of each tortilla, top with 4 to 6 blackened shrimp, and finish with a generous amount of dragonfruit salsa. Optionally, garnish with extra cilantro or microgreens for a pop of color.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Rewarm the shrimp and tortillas before serving.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the tortillas. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Tip 3: These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of black beans or a fresh corn salad for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: Prepare all your ingredients before starting the cooking process. This will make the assembly of the tacos much quicker and easier.
  • Tip 5: Each taco typically holds 4 to 6 shrimp. Adjust the quantity based on your guests' preferences.
  • Tip 6: Feel free to add sliced radishes, pickled onions, or shredded cabbage for extra crunch and flavor.