Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
  • 1 cup (240ml) ice-cold sparkling water (or club soda)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3 cups/720ml)
  • 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 1 large lime)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon (0.625g) black pepper
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Optional toppings: pico de gallo, avocado slices, hot sauce

Instructions:

  1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the ice-cold sparkling water until just combined.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to use.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Carefully place shrimp in the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding.
  4. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Heat tortillas on a griddle or in a skillet over medium heat until warm and pliable, about 30 seconds per side. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave according to package directions.
  6. Place a few fried shrimp in each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage or slaw mix and a generous drizzle of cilantro-lime sauce.
  7. Serve immediately with lime wedges and any desired toppings. Enjoy your Fried Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro-Lime!