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Flavorful Mango Habanero Shrimp Tacos with Pickled Onion

mango habanero shrimp tacos - featured image

These shrimp tacos combine the spicy heat of habanero with the sweet juiciness of mango and tangy pickled onions for a fresh, flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
  • 1 small habanero pepper, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1 cup thinly sliced red onion (for pickled onions)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (for pickled onions)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (for pickled onions)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for pickled onions)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • A handful of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 8 small soft corn tortillas

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pickled onions by combining 1 cup thinly sliced red onion with 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt in a bowl or jar. Stir gently and let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Marinate the shrimp by tossing 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 finely chopped habanero (seeds removed), 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, juice of 1 lime, salt, and pepper to taste. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Peel and dice 1 ripe mango into 1/2-inch chunks and set aside.
  4. Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp in a single layer for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque with a slight char. Cook in batches if needed. Remove from heat and keep warm.
  5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds. Keep warm wrapped in a clean kitchen towel.
  6. Assemble the tacos by placing warm tortillas on plates, layering with cooked shrimp, diced mango, and a generous spoonful of pickled onions. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. Optionally add a squeeze of lime or creamy sauce.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while shrimp are warm and juicy.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Marinate shrimp briefly to prevent mushiness. Remove habanero seeds to reduce heat. Prepare pickled onions ahead for better flavor. Warm tortillas properly to prevent breaking. Cook shrimp in batches if pan is crowded.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, mango habanero shrimp, pickled onion, spicy shrimp tacos, easy tacos, quick dinner, gluten-free tacos