Javanese-inspired Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Ingredients

In this Javanese-inspired adaptation of Tacos Gobernador, we incorporate traditional Javanese spices and flavors to create a unique fusion dish. The original Mexican recipe typically uses a creamy sauce and includes cheese, which we replace with a spicy sambal sauce and fresh herbs to infuse the dish with Javanese influences. We alse have the original recipe for Tacos gobernador, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 lemongrass stalks, white parts only, finely chopped 2 lemongrass stalks, white parts only, finely chopped
• 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2cm (0.8 inch) galangal, grated 2cm (0.8 inch) galangal, grated
• 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 8 small tortillas 8 small tortillas
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the lemongrass, shallots, garlic, galangal, turmeric, coriander, cumin, salt, sugar, and vegetable oil to make a marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss until well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Grill the marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. 5.
   Warm the tortillas on the grill for a few seconds on each side.
6. 6.
   To assemble the tacos, place a few grilled shrimp on each tortilla. Top with sambal sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro and mint leaves.
7. 7.
   Serve the Javanese-inspired Spicy Shrimp Tacos immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Remove the tough outer layers before finely chopping the white parts for a more tender texture.
• Galangal — If you can't find fresh galangal, you can substitute it with dried galangal powder, but use half the amount.
• Shrimp — Ensure the shrimp are deveined and peeled before marinating for better flavor absorption.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add sliced bird's eye chili to the sambal sauce.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili peppers in the sambal sauce.
• Experiment with different types of seafood, such as squid or fish, for variety.
• Serve the tacos with a side of Javanese-style pickles for a refreshing contrast.
• If you don't have a grill, you can cook the shrimp in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Serving advice

Serve the Javanese-inspired Spicy Shrimp Tacos with a squeeze of lime juice for added tanginess. Accompany them with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad to create a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tacos on a platter, garnishing them generously with fresh cilantro and mint leaves. Serve them alongside a bowl of the sambal sauce for dipping or drizzling.