Jamaican Jerk Shrimp Tacos

When summer arrives, it’s time to embrace the bright and lively flavors of the season. One dish that truly captures the taste of the Caribbean is Jamaican Jerk Shrimp Tacos. These tacos feature spiced shrimp, zesty mango slaw, and creamy lime crema, all wrapped in soft flour tortillas. Each bite is a flavor explosion, making them perfect for those warm summer nights.

Jamaican Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw & Lime Crema

Servings: 4 (makes 8 tacos)

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Marinate Time: 15–30 minutes (optional but recommended)

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Jerk Shrimp Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup chopped onion

• 2 scallions, chopped

• 1 tbsp garlic paste

• 1 tbsp ginger paste

• 1/2 tsp hot sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp lime juice + 1 tsp lime zest

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp dried parsley

• 1/2 tsp allspice

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• 1/8 tsp nutmeg

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Zesty Mango Slaw Ingredients

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1/4 tsp celery seed

• 1/2 tsp poppy seeds

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 cups shredded cabbage (red, green, or both)

• 1 ripe mango, julienned or thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Lime Crema Ingredients

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tsp lime zest

• 1/2 tsp garlic paste

• Salt, to taste

To Assemble

• 8 soft flour tortillas, warmed

• Extra lime wedges & cilantro for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Jerk Marinade

In a blender or food processor, combine:onion, scallions, garlic paste, ginger paste, hot sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, parsley, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.Blend until smooth.

2. Marinate the Shrimp

Toss shrimp in the marinade and let sit for 15–30 minutes in the fridge (or up to 2 hours).

3. Prepare Mango Slaw

In a large bowl, whisk together: vinegar, oil, honey, mayo, celery seed, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper.Add shredded cabbage, mango, cilantro, and green onions. Toss to combine. Chill until ready to serve.

4. Make Lime Crema

In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, garlic paste, and a pinch of salt. Chill until needed.

5. Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and slightly charred. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.

6. Assemble the Tacos

Fill each warm tortilla with:

• A layer of mango slaw

• A few jerk shrimp

• A drizzle of lime crema

Top with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.

Tips

• Want it spicier? Add extra hot sauce or a minced chili to the marinade.

• You can grill the shrimp for extra smokiness.

• Swap shrimp for grilled tofu or chicken for variation.