Introduction
If you’re searching for a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these Shiitake Mushroom Tacos topped with Mango Salsa and Cilantro Ranch are the ideal choice. Packed with flavor and made with fresh ingredients, this recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The earthy mushrooms are complemented by the sweetness of mango, while the creamy cilantro ranch adds a refreshing element that ties everything together. This dish is not only tasty but also a fantastic vegetarian option for taco night.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Tacos:
– 1 pound shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
For the Mango Salsa:
– 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
For the Cilantro Ranch:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Directions
1. Prepare the Mango Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Make the Cilantro Ranch: In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and lime juice. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer to a container and refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Cook the Shiitake Mushrooms: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms are tender and well-coated with the spices, about 3-4 minutes more.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until pliable. Place a portion of the cooked shiitake mushrooms onto each tortilla. Top with a spoonful of mango salsa and a drizzle of cilantro ranch. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Mango Salsa
In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Make the Cilantro Ranch
In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and lime juice. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer to a container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook the Shiitake Mushrooms
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms are tender and well-coated with the spices, about 3-4 minutes more.
Assemble the Tacos
Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until pliable. Place a portion of the cooked shiitake mushrooms onto each tortilla. Top with a spoonful of mango salsa and a drizzle of cilantro ranch. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Ingredient Quality
Use fresh ingredients for a more vibrant flavor in the salsa and ranch.
Tortilla Options
Flour tortillas can be substituted with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Storage
Store any leftover mango salsa and cilantro ranch in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customization
Feel free to adjust the spice levels in the mushroom mixture and salsa according to your personal taste.
Serving Suggestions
These tacos can be served with a side of lime wedges and extra cilantro for added freshness.
Cook Techniques
Preparing Mango Salsa
Combine diced mango, finely chopped red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and mix well to meld flavors.
Making Cilantro Ranch
Blend mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, cilantro, minced garlic, and lime juice in a blender until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate.
Cooking Shiitake Mushrooms
Heat olive oil in a skillet, add sliced shiitake mushrooms, and cook for 5 minutes. Add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and seasonings. Continue cooking until tender.
Assembling Tacos
Warm flour tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Add cooked shiitake mushrooms, top with mango salsa and cilantro ranch, and sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese. Serve immediately.
FAQ
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can substitute shiitake mushrooms with other varieties like cremini or portobello.
How do I store leftover mango salsa?
Store leftover mango salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Is the cilantro ranch dressing versatile?
Yes, the cilantro ranch can be used as a dip for vegetables or a dressing for salads.
Can I reheate the tacos?
Yes, you can reheat the tacos; however, it’s best to keep the salsa and ranch separate until serving to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
Feta cheese is a great alternative if you cannot find cotija cheese.
Conclusion
The shiitake mushroom tacos with mango salsa and cilantro ranch provide a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The earthiness of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the mango, while the zesty cilantro ranch adds a refreshing creaminess. This dish is simple to prepare and is sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Chickpea Tacos with Avocado Lime Dressing
Swap shiitake mushrooms for chickpeas, seasoned with similar spices, and top with a creamy avocado lime dressing for a hearty vegetarian option.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Use marinated grilled shrimp in place of mushrooms and complement with a fresh pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
Beef Tacos with Spicy Tomato Salsa
For a meaty alternative, substitute the mushrooms with ground beef, and serve with a robust spicy tomato salsa to increase the flavor profile.
Roasted Cauliflower Tacos with Chipotle Cream
Replace shiitake mushrooms with roasted cauliflower for a vibrant vegetarian dish, drizzled with a smoky chipotle cream sauce.
Quinoa Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Incorporate quinoa as a base for a protein-packed taco filling and pair it with a zesty avocado salsa for a healthful twist.
Black Bean Tacos with Mango-Cilantro Salad
Use black beans as a filling, and serve with a mango-cilantro salad on top for added freshness and texture.
