Introduction
Mini tacos filled with a delicious prawn cocktail mixture are a delightful treat for any occasion. These tasty bites combine the fresh flavors of prawns with a zesty sauce, all nestled in crispy mini taco shells. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these mini tacos are sure to impress your guests. Let’s explore the ingredients and instructions to create this wonderful dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Mini Tacos:
– 6 corn tortillas (approximately 13 cm / 5 inches wide)
– 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt (use half the amount if using table salt)
– Olive oil spray
Prawns:
– 220 g (7 oz) cooked prawns/shrimp, peeled and diced into small 5 mm (0.2 inch) cubes
Prawn Cocktail Sauce:
– 4 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably whole egg or Kewpie)
– 1 tablespoon ketchup (or tomato sauce)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon horseradish cream (or fresh horseradish)
– 2 dashes of Tabasco sauce (optional)
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (or one small garlic clove, pressed)
– 1 tablespoon cornichons (or dill pickle), finely chopped
Garnish/Serving:
– 1 tablespoon chives, finely sliced (or parsley)
– Optional: salmon roe or caviar
– Optional: dried black beans or rock salt to keep tacos upright when serving
Prep Time
Preparation time for the mini tacos is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for baking the taco shells is around 12 minutes. Total time from start to serving is approximately 27 minutes. This recipe yields about 6 mini tacos, making it a great option for a small gathering or a fun appetizer. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Mini Taco Shells
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced ovens.
2. Using a 6 cm (2.4 inch) cutter, cut rounds from the tortillas.
3. Place half of the tortilla rounds on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
4. Lightly spray the warm tortillas with olive oil and sprinkle with half the salt.
5. Turn a standard 12-hole muffin tin upside down. Wedge the tortillas, salt side down, between the muffin tin holes to form taco shapes.
6. Lightly spray the surface of the tortillas with olive oil.
7. Bake for 12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
8. Allow the taco shells to cool in the muffin tin to set their shape.
Prawn Cocktail Filling
1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish cream, Tabasco sauce (if using), cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and chopped cornichons to create the Marie Rose sauce.
2. Just before assembling the tacos, mix the diced prawns into the sauce.
Assembling
1. Fill each mini taco shell with the prawn cocktail mixture.
2. Sprinkle with finely sliced chives.
3. If desired, place the tacos on a bed of dried black beans or rock salt to keep them upright when serving.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Cooking Salt
Use half the amount of table salt to avoid oversalting.
Olive Oil Spray
Ensure even coating of the tortillas to achieve a crispy texture.
Prawn Size
Dicing prawns into small cubes ensures better distribution in the taco.
Garnish Options
Consider using salmon roe or caviar for an elegant touch.
Taco Stability
Using dried black beans or rock salt helps keep the tacos upright for serving.
Cook techniques
Oven Baking
Using the oven to bake mini taco shells allows for even cooking, resulting in crispy and golden tortillas. Ensure to preheat the oven to the appropriate temperature for optimum results.
Microwaving
Microwaving the tortillas briefly makes them pliable, which helps in shaping them into taco shells. Covering them with a damp paper towel prevents them from drying out.
Shape Formation
Wedge the tortillas into an upside-down muffin tin to create the desired taco shape. This technique ensures they hold their form while baking.
Mixing Sauces
Combine the ingredients for the prawn cocktail sauce in a bowl to create a creamy, flavorful dressing. This technique enhances the overall taste of the shrimp filling.
Assembly
Carefully fill the baked taco shells with the prawn cocktail filling just before serving. This keeps the tortillas from becoming soggy and maintains their crispiness.
FAQ
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas for corn tortillas, but the flavor and texture will differ. Corn tortillas tend to be more authentic for tacos.
How can I store leftover prawn cocktail filling?
Store any leftover prawn cocktail filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?
Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise for a different flavor profile.
How do I make the taco shells ahead of time?
You can bake the taco shells in advance, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and assemble them with the filling just before serving.
Can I add other toppings to the mini tacos?
Absolutely! Additional toppings could include avocado, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy mini taco shells filled with a savory prawn cocktail. The unique flavors of the Marie Rose sauce paired with the juicy prawns create an exquisite appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings or a special treat. The customizable garnishes also add a touch of elegance to your presentation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Substitute prawns with cooked, shredded chicken marinated in chipotle sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Tacos
Use roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant as a filling, topped with avocado slices.
Fish Tacos
Replace prawns with grilled or fried white fish, and add a mango salsa for a tropical twist.
Beef Taco Filling
Use seasoned ground beef instead of prawns, adding chopped onions and spices for a hearty taco.
Shrimp and Avocado Tacos
Mix diced avocado with the prawn cocktail mixture for creamy and rich tacos.
Quinoa and Black Bean Tacos
Combine cooked quinoa and black beans for a protein-packed vegetarian filling, topped with salsa.
Nutty Prawn Tacos
Incorporate crushed peanuts or cashews into the prawn cocktail mixture for added crunch and flavor.
Salsa Verde Tacos
Top the prawn tacos with salsa verde and fresh cilantro for a zesty finish.
