Shrimp Avocado Tostadas with Lime Crema

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Tostada Shells

   • Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers (about 350°F or 175°C).
   • Working one at a time, carefully place a corn tortilla in the hot oil. Fry for 45-60 seconds per side, using tongs to flip, until it's golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove the fried tortilla and let it drain on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. Immediately sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
   • Repeat the process with the remaining 7 tortillas. This should take about 10-12 minutes in total.
2. 2

   Make the Avocado Mash

   • While the tortillas are frying, prepare the avocado. Halve the avocados, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a medium bowl.
   • Mash the avocado with a fork to your desired consistency, leaving it slightly chunky for texture.
   • Stir in the juice of half the lime, half of the chopped cilantro, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well and set aside. The lime juice will prevent browning.
3. 3

   Cook the Shrimp

   • Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
   • In a separate large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the dry shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper.
   • Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and curled. Do not overcook.
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze the remaining lime juice over the shrimp. Toss to coat.
4. 4

   Assemble and Serve

   • To assemble, spread a generous layer of the avocado mash onto each crispy tostada shell.
   • Arrange 4-5 pieces of the cooked shrimp over the avocado.
   • Garnish with finely chopped red onion, the remaining fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese.
   • Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of the warm shrimp and crispy shell.