Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are an irresistible snack that brings vibrant flavors to any gathering. These crunchy, cheesy taquitos are perfect for game day, parties, or casual nights at home. With a delightful filling of tender crab meat and succulent shrimp enveloped in crispy tortillas, they offer a unique ocean-inspired taste balanced perfectly with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. Easy to make and utterly delicious, these taquitos are sure to impress your guests and satisfy seafood lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These taquitos come together in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute appetizer.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of crab, shrimp, and creamy queso cheese creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile.
• Versatile Snack: Great for any occasion—serve them at parties, game days, or family dinners.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With their crispy exterior and savory filling, these taquitos will be a hit among seafood lovers and snack enthusiasts alike.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite spices or toppings to make them uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos flawlessly, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick frying pan: Ensures the taquitos cook evenly without sticking, leading to a perfect crisp.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining the filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Ideal for flipping the taquitos with ease while frying.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 cup fresh or canned crab meat, flaked
• 1 cup cooked, peeled, and chopped shrimp
• 1 cup queso cheese (queso blanco or queso fresco), melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Taquitos

• 12 small flour or corn tortillas (for gluten free, use certified gluten free corn tortillas)
• Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)

How to Make Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked crab meat and chopped shrimp. Add the minced garlic and onion. Next, pour in the melted queso cheese along with the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Sprinkle in all seasonings—chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is creamy but not runny.

Step 2: Assemble Taquitos

Slightly warm the tortillas until they become flexible. Take a generous spoonful of seafood filling and place it on one edge of each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly into cigar shapes to secure the filling during cooking. Use toothpicks if needed to hold them together.

Step 3: Fry the Taquitos

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the taquitos seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. Once done, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to eliminate excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos hot for an optimal crunchy and melty experience. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a squeeze of lime if desired.

Servings: 12
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 270 calories | Protein: 15 g | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Fat: 15 g
Categories: Appetizers

How to Serve Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are perfect for any gathering. These flavorful taquitos offer a delightful crunch and a cheesy seafood filling that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Avocado Cream Sauce: A smooth and creamy dip made from ripe avocados, lime juice, and cilantro. It adds a refreshing touch to the taquitos.
• Salsa Verde: A tangy and zesty green salsa made with tomatillos, jalapeños, and fresh herbs that complements the seafood flavors beautifully.
• Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha for a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the crispy taquitos.
• Chipotle Sauce: A smoky sauce that enhances the flavors of the crab and shrimp with its rich taste.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an added burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for guests to squeeze over their taquitos, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Sliced Green Onions: Add a sprinkle of sliced green onions for color and extra crunch.

How to Perfect Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos not only taste great but also look visually appealing. Here are some tips to ensure your taquitos turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh crab meat and shrimp for the best flavor and texture in your taquitos.
• Control Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispiness without making them greasy.
• Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill your tortillas; this helps keep them rolled tightly and prevents leaks during frying.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese like pepper jack or cheddar alongside queso for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are delicious on their own but can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad featuring corn, lime juice, cheese, and spices, providing a great contrast in texture.
2. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed dish made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado dressed in lime vinaigrette.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip mixed with lime, onion, and cilantro adds richness that balances the crunchy taquitos.
4. Rice & Beans: A classic combo that offers heartiness to your meal; seasoned rice paired with flavorful beans makes a satisfying side.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a fun snack option alongside your taquitos.
6. Coleslaw: A light slaw made from cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.

These sides enhance the experience of enjoying Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos at your next gathering!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience with Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold tortillas: Always warm the tortillas slightly before filling. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
• Overfilling taquitos: Be cautious not to add too much filling. A generous spoonful is great, but overfilling can lead to bursting during frying.
• Not heating the oil enough: The oil should be hot enough for frying, ideally around 350°F (175°C). This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget the seasonings! These enhance the flavor significantly, so ensure you incorporate all spices and herbs listed in the recipe.
• Frying at too low a temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, taquitos may absorb too much oil and become soggy instead of crispy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container. They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Let them cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

• Place cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake taquitos on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: For a quick option, microwave for about 30-45 seconds, but this may result in softer tortillas.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos?

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are crispy snacks filled with crab meat, shrimp, and creamy queso cheese, perfect for gatherings.

Can I make Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and store it in the fridge or freezer. Assemble and fry when ready to serve.

What is a good dipping sauce for these taquitos?

Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream complement Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos well and add extra flavor.

Can I use different seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seafood options like scallops or fish for varied flavors in your taquitos.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are not only delicious but also easy to customize. You can adjust spices or even add vegetables like bell peppers for an extra crunch. Try this recipe at your next gathering, and watch it disappear quickly!

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Appetizers