Acorn Squash Tempura Tacos with Smoked Paprika-Lime Sauce
 
 
Mexican flavor gets a fall twist in these acorn squash tempura tacos with an addictive smoked paprika-lime sauce.
Yield: 3-4 servings
Ingredients
  • 2 clove garlic, grated
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 3 tsp smoked paprika, divided
  • salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup rice flour, divided
  • 1 (1 lb) acorn squash, halved, seeded, and cut into ¼-inch thick slices
  • ¾ cup of cold water
  • safflower seed oil, for frying
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 lime, quartered
  • 4 oz queso fresco
  • ½ cup cilantro, minced
  • 8 corn tortillas
Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the garlic, mayonnaise, 2 tsp of the smoked paprika, and the juice of 1 lime wedge. Stir until well combined. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss ¼ cup of the rice flour with the squash slices. Season with salt and black pepper.
  3. In a second large bowl, whisk together the remaining rice flour, 1 tsp of smoked paprika, and the cold water to make a thin batter. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
  4. In a large pan, heat a ½-inch layer of oil on medium-high heat until hot. Working in batches, dip the coated squash in the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Add the battered squash to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt. Repeat with remaining squash slices.
  5. Discard any excess oil and wipe out the pan.
  6. Heat the same pan used to cook the squash on medium-high heat until hot. Add the tortillas to the pan in batches, toasting for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side. Transfer to a plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Spread each tortilla with a layer of the smoked paprika-lime sauce. Divide the cooked squash, onion, and queso fresco between the tortillas. Garnish with cilantro and remaining lime wedges.
Notes
Adapted very slightly from Blue Apron
Nutrition Information
Serving size: 2 tacos
Recipe by Joanne Eats Well With Others at https://joanne-eatswellwithothers.com/2015/11/acorn-squash-tempura-tacos-with-smoked-paprika-lime-sauce.html