If you want a shrimp taco recipe up your sleeve, this is the one you need. The recipe for these tacos comes from Mazatlán, Sinaloa. The story goes that the owner of Los Arcos restaurant, Francisco Labastida, came up with this idea to impress the governor, who was visiting. That is why he called them governor tacos!
MAKES 12
INGREDIENTS
1 TBSP VEGETABLE OIL
1 TBSP SALTED BUTTER
1/2 ONION, FINELY DICED
1 GARLIC CLOVE, FINELY CHOPPED
1 CELERY STICK, FINELY DICED
1 POBLANO OR GREEN PEPPER, CHARRED, DESEEDED AND CHOPPED
1 TOMATO, FINELY DICED
14 OZ (400 G) SHRIMP, PEELED, CLEANED AND CHOPPED
1 TSP SEA SALT
PINCH OF GROUND BLACK PEPPER
JUICE OF 1/2 LIME
TO SERVE
12 CORN TORTILLAS (STORE-BOUGHT OR SEE PAGE 18 FOR HOMEMADE)
4 1/2 CUPS (500 G) MIXED GRATED MOZZARELLA AND CHEDDAR CHEESE
DIRECTIONS
In a large frying pan, heat the oil and butter over low–medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and garlic and fry for 3 minutes until translucent.
Add the celery and poblano. Continue frying for 3 minutes, mixing from time to time to avoid burning. Add the chopped tomato and cook for a further 3 minutes.
Once the vegetables are fried, add the shrimp. Season with the salt and pepper and cook for 10 minutes on low–medium heat until the shrimp are pink and properly cooked. Squeeze over the lime juice and set aside while you heat the tortillas.
Heat each tortilla in a pan over medium heat, adding some cheese and letting it melt. Top with some of the shrimp stew and serve.
You can use roasted cauliflower florets instead of shrimp for a vegetarian option.
Excerpted from Norteña by Karla Zazueta. Copyright © 2024 Interlink Publishing. Reprinted with permission from Interlink Publishing. Northampton, MA. All rights reserved.
When you shop using our links, we earn a small commission. It’s a great way to support public media at no extra cost to you!
Each week, The Splendid Table brings you stories that expand your world view, inspire you to try something new, and show how food connects us all. We rely on your generous support. For as little as $5 a month, you can have a lasting impact on The Splendid Table. And, when you donate, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who love good food, good conversation, and kitchen companionship. Show your love for The Splendid Table with a gift today.
Thank you for your support.
Donate today for as little as $5.00 a month. Your gift only takes a few minutes and has a lasting impact on The Splendid Table and you'll be welcomed into The Splendid Table Co-op.