Crispy KFC-Spiced Shrimp Tacos
*(Serves 4)*
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (pat dry!)
- 3 tsp F N Good Food Eleven Secret Herbs and Spices seasoning (divided)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plant-based milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (or air-fryer method)
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 mango, diced (or pineapple for tang)
- ½ cup cilantro leaves
- Lime crema: Mix ½ cup sour cream (or vegan mayo) with zest and juice of 1 lime
- Pickled red onions (optional)
Instructions
1. Season the Shrimp:
- Toss shrimp with 1 tsp of the F N Good Food Eleven Secret Herbs and Spices seasoning. Set aside.
2. Prep the Breading Stations:
- Batter: Whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, 1 tsp F N Good Food Eleven Secret Herbs and Spices seasoning, and buttermilk until smooth.
- Breading: Mix panko and remaining 1 tsp F N Good Food Eleven Secret Herbs and Spices seasoning in a shallow dish.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
- Dip each shrimp into the batter, let excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned panko. Press gently to adhere.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
- Deep-Fry: Heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Air Fryer: Spray shrimp with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes on a greased sheet.
5. Assemble Tacos:
- Warm tortillas. Layer with cabbage, crispy shrimp, mango, cilantro, and pickled onions. Drizzle with lime crema.
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp cayenne to the seasoning mix or top with hot sauce.
- Fish Alternative: Swap shrimp for firm white fish (cod, tilapia) cut into strips.
- Extra Flavour: Toss cooked shrimp in a squeeze of lime and a pinch of seasoning before serving.
The F N Good Food Eleven Secret Herbs and Spices seasoning adds depth to the shrimp’s natural sweetness, while the crispy panko mimics the Colonel’s signature crunch. Paired with fresh mango and lime crema, it’s a bright, balanced twist on classic flavours. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or summer gatherings.
Enjoy!