Name: Gochujang Shrimp Tacos with Zesty Mango Slaw Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (26/30 size) (tails removed and deveined); 2 tbsp gochujang sauce (adjust for spice level); 1 tsp diamond kosher salt; 1 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking); 1 cup mango (julienned); 1 cup radishes (julienned, variety (watermelon, green luobo, daikon)); 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp honey (or white sugar, to taste); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 cup red or green cabbage (thinly sliced); 8 pcs tortillas (1-2 per person); 1 medium avocado (optional, sliced or mashed); 1 cup kohlrabi (optional, julienned)

The aroma of spicy marinated shrimp sizzling in a skillet has a way of transforming an ordinary evening into a vibrant fiesta! These Gochujang Shrimp Tacos with Mango Radish Slaw are my go-to dish when I crave a quick yet impressive meal. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a bright and flavorful taco experience that balances sweet, spicy, and crunchy all in one bite. Not only are these tacos customizable to suit every palate, but they also bring together fresh ingredients that make it easy to choose homemade goodness over takeout. As you savor the richness of the gochujang and the refreshing touch of mango and radish, you’ll realize this isn’t just dinner—it’s a delightful celebration on a plate! What are your favorite taco toppings to make it your own?

Why are Gochujang Shrimp Tacos a must-try?

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The gochujang sauce infuses the shrimp with a sweet and spicy kick, while the mango radish slaw adds a refreshing crunch—each bite is a delightful surprise!

Customizable Options: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste by modifying the gochujang or adding your favorite toppings, like avocado or cabbage. If you’re up for a twist, check out my Rotisserie Chicken Tacos for another quick option.

Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, these tacos elevate your meal without compromising on nutrition.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve them at dinner parties or casual get-togethers, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!

Gochujang Shrimp Taco Ingredients

• Get ready to ignite your taste buds!

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Use large 26/30 size, tails removed and deveined for a juicy bite.
Gochujang Sauce – This flavorful blend adds a sweet and spicy kick; start with 2 tbsp for mild heat.
Diamond Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; reduce quantity by half if using table salt.
Neutral Oil (grapeseed or canola) – Keeps the shrimp light while cooking; perfect for quick frying.

For the Slaw

Mango – Adds a juicy sweetness; julienne for the best texture in each taco.
Radishes (watermelon, green luobo, daikon) – A crunchy contrast; julienne to maintain a uniform look.
Rice Vinegar – Brightens the flavors of the slaw, making it a refreshing addition.
Honey or White Sugar – Use according to your preferred sweetness to balance acidity.
Kosher Salt – Adjust seasoning for the slaw components to enhance their natural flavors.
Red or Green Cabbage – Adds crispy layers; thinly slice for easy mixing.

For Serving

Tortillas – Choose your favorite type; typically, 1-2 per person make for the perfect taco base.
Avocado (optional) – Creamy texture elevates the dish, either sliced or mashed as a topping.
Kohlrabi (optional) – For an extra crunch in the slaw; julienne and peel before use for the best results.

Dive into these Gochujang Shrimp Tacos and let your culinary creativity shine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly crispy taco shells. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients to streamline the cooking process and make the preparation more enjoyable and efficient.

Step 2: Make the Slaw
In a mixing bowl, combine julienned mango and radishes, creating a colorful blend. Drizzle in rice vinegar and honey, adding a pinch of kosher salt to enhance flavors. Toss everything gently until well coated, then set the slaw aside to let the flavors meld and the vegetables soften slightly, enhancing the refreshing aspect of your Gochujang Shrimp Tacos.

Step 3: Prep the Shrimp
Next, rinse and pat dry your shrimp, ensuring they’re from the 26/30 size group for the best texture. In a bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with gochujang sauce, coating them evenly to impart a delightful spicy kick. Allow them to marinate for about 5 minutes while you prepare the taco shells, maximizing flavor infusion.

Step 4: Prepare Taco Shells
Take your tortillas and lightly microwave them for about 15 seconds to make them pliable. Fold each tortilla in half and nestle them in a baking sheet lined with crumpled foil to hold their shape. Lightly brush the outside with neutral oil before baking for 8-10 minutes until they’re crispy, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of neutral oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and pink—a sure sign they’re perfectly cooked, infused with the vibrant gochujang flavor.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos
Now for the fun part—assembling your Gochujang Shrimp Tacos! Gather your crispy taco shells, cooked shrimp, and mango radish slaw. Allow everyone to customize their tacos, adding toppings like shredded cabbage and avocado if desired, creating a vibrant and personalized meal bursting with flavor and texture.

How to Store and Freeze Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the slaw separate to maintain freshness and crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze marinated but uncooked shrimp in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating: To reheat, warm shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Taco shells can be crisped in the oven for 5 minutes.

Slaw Storage: The mango radish slaw can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days, but it’s best added fresh for optimal crunch with your Gochujang Shrimp Tacos.

Make Ahead Options

These Gochujang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the mango radish slaw up to 2 days in advance; simply combine all slaw ingredients, toss well, and refrigerate in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy. The shrimp can be marinated in the gochujang sauce up to 24 hours ahead; store the shrimp in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply cook the shrimp in a skillet and warm the taco shells in the oven as directed for delicious, flavorful tacos that taste just as vibrant and fresh as if they were made on the spot!

What to Serve with Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

Elevate your taco night with delicious side dishes that complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.

Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty freshness of lime and cilantro in this rice is a light and refreshing accompaniment to the rich gochujang. It provides a wonderful base that balances the spice of the tacos.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn adds a fun, summery touch. Slather with butter and sprinkle with chili powder for an irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s flavor profile.
Black Bean Salad: Loaded with protein and vibrant veggies, this salad offers a hearty counterpart to the soft shrimp tacos. The beans also bring an earthiness that enhances each bite, creating a satisfying combination.
Spicy Pickled Vegetables: These tangy delights offer a crunchy contrast that brightens every bite of your gochujang shrimp tacos. Their sharpness cuts through the richness, offering a vibrant taste explosion on your palate.
Avocado and Tomato Salad: Creamy avocado paired with juicy tomatoes produces a fresh, cooling side that calms the heat. Drizzle with olive oil and lime for an elegant touch that ties the meal together.
Margaritas or Sparkling Water: Sip on a classic margarita or refreshing sparkling water with lime. Both drinks complement the spice of the shrimp tacos while enhancing the overall fiesta atmosphere!

Feel free to mix and match these sides to create an unforgettable taco experience!

Gochujang Shrimp Tacos Variations

Explore enhancing your Gochujang Shrimp Tacos with these delicious variations! Each twist invites you to personalize your meal adventure and enjoy new flavors.

Vegetarian Delight: Swap shrimp for marinated grilled tofu or chickpeas, bringing a hearty texture and protein boost.
The flavors of gochujang elevate even veggies, making every bite unforgettable!
Spicy Kick: Add freshly chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the slaw for an added fiery touch.
If you love heat, don’t hold back—add those peppers for a tantalizing crunch!
Creamy Touch: Incorporate Greek yogurt or a dollop of sour cream as a light, tangy topping.
This adds a smooth finish that beautifully balances the spice from the gochujang.
Seasonal Crunch: Try using seasonal vegetables like shredded carrots or cucumber in the slaw for a fresh twist.
Their crunchy texture will enhance each bite and keep the dish vibrant and exciting!
Sweet Addition: Drizzle some honey or agave syrup over the shrimp before serving to amplify the sweetness.
This touch brings out the best in the gochujang and compliments the mango perfectly.
Cabbage Variety: Use different types of cabbage, such as purple or napa, for a pop of color and varied texture.
Each variety adds its unique crunch and visual appeal to your tacos.
Cilantro Burst: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an herbaceous lift that brightens the entire dish.
This fragrant herb will bring a fresh balance to the sweet and spicy flavors.

As you enjoy your unique tacos, don’t forget to check out my Rotisserie Chicken Tacos for another easy and delicious option!

Expert Tips for Gochujang Shrimp Tacos

Even Cooking: Make sure the shrimp are evenly spaced in the skillet to ensure they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
Let It Marinate: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 5 minutes to absorb the bold flavors of the gochujang sauce before cooking.
Perfectly Crispy Tortillas: Keep a close eye on the tortillas while baking. They can burn quickly, so adjust the cooking time based on your specific tortilla type.
Fresh Slaw: For the best flavor, let the mango radish slaw sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Customization: Feel free to switch up toppings! Consider adding fresh cilantro or a drizzle of sriracha for extra zing with your Gochujang Shrimp Tacos.

Gochujang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for the best texture?
For the perfect bite, I recommend using large 26/30 size shrimp. These provide a nice meaty texture and cook evenly without becoming rubbery. Be sure to remove the tails and devein them before cooking for a smoother taco experience!

How should I store any leftover shrimp or slaw?
Absolutely! You can store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the mango radish slaw separate to maintain its crunch. This way, you can easily assemble fresh tacos even a few days after the initial preparation!

Can I freeze the marinated shrimp?
Yes, you can! To preserve your shrimp for later, freeze them while marinated but uncooked. Place them in a sealed freezer bag, and they will be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This keeps the flavors intact and makes meal prep a breeze!

What’s the best way to reheat unwanted shrimp?
To reheat cooked shrimp, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until heated through, being careful not to overcook. If you want to crisp up any taco shells, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for that just-baked freshness.

Can I make Gochujang Shrimp Tacos vegetarian?
Definitely! For a vegetarian twist, substitute the shrimp with marinated grilled tofu or even chickpeas for added protein. You can also enhance your slaw with seasonal vegetables like carrots or cucumbers to keep things fresh and vibrant. The more, the merrier!

Is there any dietary consideration for allergies?
If you’re serving guests with allergies, make sure to inform them that gochujang can contain gluten and might not be suitable for those with celiac disease. Additionally, always check your ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially in sauces and pre-packaged items. Enjoy every bite worry-free!