Mexican-Inspired Honey Lime Drizzled Shrimp Cakes

Mexican-Inspired Honey Lime Drizzled Shrimp Cakes are a vibrant and tantalizing fusion dish that perfectly encapsulates the zest and vigor of Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. This dish is crafted from finely chopped shrimp, expertly blended with a medley of fresh vegetables and herbs, and then pan-fried to golden, crispy perfection. What sets these cakes apart is the zesty honey lime drizzle, a unique element that adds a sweet and tangy twist to the traditional recipe. Each element of the recipe contributes to a feast for the senses, offering a balance of textures and flavors that are both inviting and exhilarating.

At the heart of these shrimp cakes is the selection of high-quality, 60/70 count shrimp, known for their sweet flavor and firm texture. The shrimp are combined in a food processor with red bell peppers, green onions, and garlic, creating a finely chopped mixture that ensures each bite is infused with a burst of flavor. Adding cumin and chili powder introduces a warm, smoky undertone, while freshly chopped cilantro adds a splash of color and a hint of freshness that brightens the overall profile of the cakes.

Creating these shrimp cakes is a breeze. Breadcrumbs and a whole egg are all you need to bind the mixture together, ensuring the cakes maintain their integrity during cooking. This simple step results in a dish that is crisp on the outside yet tender and moist on the inside. Pan-fried in a layer of vegetable oil, these shrimp cakes achieve a beautifully crispy exterior that contrasts delightfully with the soft, flavorful interior, creating a satisfying textural experience.

What truly sets these shrimp cakes apart is the innovative honey lime drizzle. This sauce is a concoction of pure honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, a hint of soy sauce, and chili powder, creating a symphony of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The drizzle complements the savory notes of the shrimp cakes and enhances them, adding a layer of complexity that tickles the palate. The zest from the lime ties the drizzle together, infusing it with a bright, citrusy aroma that makes the dish pop with each mouthful.

The presentation of the Mexican-inspired Honey Lime Drizzled Shrimp Cakes is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Served hot, the shrimp cakes are arranged on a platter, each glistening under a generous coating of the honey lime sauce. A final touch of cilantro can be added for extra flair, making the dish a pleasure to eat and a delight to behold.

These shrimp cakes are versatile and can serve as a delightful appetizer or a main course. They are perfect for any dining occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal affairs. Pair them with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a creamy dipping sauce to explore different flavor combinations.

Mexican-inspired Honey Lime Drizzled Shrimp Cakes celebrate flavors and textures. They perfectly blend traditional Mexican spices with the unexpected sweetness of honey and the zesty kick of lime, offering a culinary experience that is sure to impress and satisfy anyone looking for an out-of-the-ordinary meal. This dish pays homage to classic Mexican flavors and elevates them, creating a memorable and flavorful adventure. It pairs especially well with a side dish like Chilled Corn and Black Bean Salad.

Mexican-Inspired Honey Lime Drizzled Shrimp Cakes

Recipe by Kyle Taylor

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: MainsCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Total time

45

minutes

The Mexican-Inspired Honey Lime Drizzled Shrimp Cakes blend finely chopped shrimp with vibrant spices and fresh herbs, pan-fried to perfection and finished with a sweet and tangy honey lime sauce for a delicious fusion of flavors.

Ingredients

• For the Shrimp Cakes

• 1 pound (60/70 count) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• to taste, salt and ground black pepper

• for frying, vegetable oil

• For the Honey Lime Drizzle

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1 lime, juiced and zested

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Directions

• Prepare the Shrimp Mixture:
  Place the shrimp, red bell pepper, green onions, and garlic in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped and well mixed.
  
  Transfer the shrimp mixture to a large bowl. Add cumin, chili powder, chopped cilantro, breadcrumbs, and egg. Season with salt and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together when formed into patties.
• Form and Cook the Shrimp Cakes:
  Heat a good amount – about 1/2″ from the bottom – of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Form the shrimp mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp cakes from the skillet and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
• Make the Honey Lime Drizzle:
  Mix the honey, lime juice, zest, chili powder, and soy sauce until combined.
• Serve:
  Arrange the shrimp cakes on a serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle the honey lime sauce over each cake, ensuring it is lightly coated with the sauce. Garnish with additional cilantro for added color and flavor. Serve with a side dish like Chilled Corn and Black Bean Salad.