Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos are a perfect dish for anyone who loves a little heat with their food. These tacos bring together the bold flavors of shrimp and the spicy kick of gochujang, a Korean chili paste. When I first tried Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos, I knew they would become a favorite in my kitchen. The gochujang adds a deep, savory spiciness that pairs perfectly with the fresh shrimp, making every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos are a must-try for spice lovers.

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

What makes Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos so special is the balance of flavors. The shrimp is tender and juicy, cooked to perfection, and then coated in a gochujang sauce that has just the right amount of heat. The heat from the gochujang is not overpowering but adds a nice, subtle spice that lingers on your taste buds. The crunchy, fresh toppings like cabbage, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy shrimp. Every bite of Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos offers the perfect balance of heat, freshness, and flavor.

Easy to Make, Delicious to Enjoy

One of the best things about Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos is how easy they are to make. You don’t need to be a professional chef to put these together. With just a few simple ingredients like shrimp, gochujang, and tortillas, you can create a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. It’s a quick and delicious recipe, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even customize the toppings to suit your taste, making Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos as unique as you want them to be.

A Dish to Impress

If you’re looking to impress friends or family with a flavorful dish, Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos will do just that. Not only do they look beautiful on the plate, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. The combination of spicy, savory, and fresh ingredients is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, next time you’re looking for something exciting to serve, give Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos a try they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Chef’s Notes- Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

• Shrimp Preparation: Make sure the shrimp are properly thawed if using frozen shrimp. For the best flavor, always peel, devein, and remove the tails to ensure smooth taco fillings.
• Marinade Time: If you’re short on time, marinate the shrimp for 5 minutes as suggested. However, for an extra boost of flavor, you can marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes (don’t exceed this to avoid over-marinating).
• Consistency of Lime Crema: For a thinner crema, gradually add more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker crema, reduce the amount of milk.
• Cooking Shrimp: When cooking shrimp, use medium-high heat and cook them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
• Taco Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. Along with kimchi and cucumber, try adding thinly sliced radishes or a drizzle of sriracha mayo for extra flavor and texture.
• Tortilla Warming Tip: To keep the tortillas warm while preparing the shrimp, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or aluminum foil and place them in a low oven (around 200°F) to keep them soft and pliable.
• Alternative Ingredients: If you can’t find gochujang, substitute with sriracha mixed with a bit of honey for a spicy, slightly sweet kick. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream in the lime crema for a lighter, tangier flavor.

Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Korean, Tex-MexDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

tacos

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

256

kcal

Resting Time

5

minutes

Total time

35

minutes

Dive into a mouthwatering fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors with these spicy gochujang shrimp tacos! Expertly marinated shrimp combine the rich heat of gochujang with zesty lime crema, creating a perfect balance that’s easy to prepare and fantastic for gatherings. Top with crunchy kimchi, fresh cucumber, and creamy cotija cheese for a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or craving something adventurous, these tacos are sure to impress. Get ready to savor the best of both cuisines in every bite!

Ingredients

• Tortillas

• 6 to 8 corn tortillas

• Lime Crema Mixture

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 3 tablespoons sour cream

• 1/2 lime zest of half a lime

• 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk optional

• Shrimp Marinade

• 2 tablespoons gochujang paste

• 2 to 3 cloves garlic minced

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

• 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 pound raw shrimp peeled, deveined, tails removed

• Suggested Toppings

• kimchi

• cucumber thinly sliced

• cotija cheese grated

• sesame seeds toasted

• 1 to 2 green onions thinly sliced

• lime wedges

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise: Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.

• Sour Cream: Use Greek yogurt or coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative.

• Gochujang: Substitute with sriracha mixed with a bit of honey and soy sauce if gochujang isn’t available.

• Cotija Cheese: Feta or queso fresco can replace cotija for similar texture and flavor.

• Avocado Oil: Any neutral cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil can be used.

• Tortillas: Use lettuce wraps or gluten-free tortillas if needed.

• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for a vegan option.

• Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos can be used for a gluten-free version.

Directions

• Prepare the Lime Crema: In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired drizzling consistency is achieved. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use, approximately 15 minutes.
• Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, mix together gochujang paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and avocado oil. Season the mixture with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the shrimp sit in the marinade for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Warm the Tortillas: Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place each tortilla on the skillet and warm for about 30 seconds per side, or until they become soft and pliable.
• Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they turn opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1 minute. Turn off the heat and allow the residual heat to finish cooking the shrimp, ensuring they are perfectly tender and flavorful.
• Assemble the Tacos: Take a warm tortilla and spread a generous amount of lime crema on top. Add the cooked shrimp, then layer with your favorite toppings such as kimchi, sliced cucumber, grated cotija cheese, toasted sesame seeds, and sliced green onions. Garnish with a lime wedge for an extra burst of citrus. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Korean-inspired shrimp tacos.

Equipment

• mixing bowls
• Chef’s Knife
• cast iron skillet

Notes

• For perfectly cooked shrimp, ensure they are evenly sized and not overcooked to maintain their tender texture. To elevate the flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade for an extra tang. Serve these tacos alongside a fresh Asian slaw or a side of cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal. If you’re looking to add more crunch, include thinly sliced radishes or shredded cabbage. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of extra lime juice to enhance the overall taste.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 256kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Potassium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Vitamin A: 1000IU
• Vitamin C: 5mg
• Calcium: 150mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQ-  Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

Can I make these tacos with chicken instead of shrimp?

Yes, chicken works well in this recipe! You can marinate and cook chicken breast or thighs in the same way as the shrimp. Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

How spicy are these tacos?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference. Gochujang provides a medium heat, but you can reduce the amount used in the marinade or add extra honey for a milder flavor.

Can I make the lime crema ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the lime crema up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using.

What are some good alternatives to gochujang if I can’t find it?

If gochujang is unavailable, you can substitute with a combination of sriracha and honey, soy sauce, or even a dash of chili paste mixed with a little bit of sweetener like brown sugar or maple syrup.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply replace the shrimp with grilled tofu, tempeh, or even roasted mushrooms. The marinade and toppings will add a lot of flavor, making for a delicious vegetarian option.