Crispy Prawn Rice Paper Tacos

These crispy prawn rice paper tacos are one of those simple-but-so-satisfying meals. Crunchy, fresh, salty, creamy — they hit all the notes without feeling heavy. They’re perfect for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or even as a sharing plate when you want something a bit playful.

The rice paper crisps up beautifully in hot oil, creating a light, crunchy shell that pairs so well with fresh greens and juicy prawns. Best eaten straight away while everything is still warm and crisp.

Ingredients

• 2–4 rice paper sheets, cut into quarters

• 16–20 cooked prawns

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Salt and pepper

• Oil, for frying

• Shredded lettuce

• ½ avocado, thinly sliced

• Chilli mayo

• Nori and sesame seed sprinkle (or sesame seeds)

Method

1. Prepare the prawns
   Remove the tails from the prawns and place them in a bowl. Dress with lemon juice, salt and pepper, then set aside.

2. Prep the fresh ingredients
   Cut the rice paper sheets into quarters using scissors.
   Thinly slice the avocado and shred the lettuce. Set everything aside and have it ready to assemble.

3. Heat the oil
   Add oil to a frying pan — enough to comfortably cover 1–2 rice paper quarters. Heat over medium-high heat.
   (Be careful here — the oil gets hot quickly.)

4. Test and fry the rice paper
   Test the oil by adding one rice paper quarter. If it crisps up straight away, the oil is ready.
   Fry 1–3 quarters at a time until puffed and crisp (this only takes seconds).
   Use tongs to remove and place on kitchen paper. Lightly season with a pinch of salt while warm.

5. Assemble the tacos
   Once the rice paper shells have cooled slightly, fill with shredded lettuce, avocado slices and prawns.
   Drizzle with chilli mayo and finish with a nori and sesame seed sprinkle.

6. Serve immediately
   These are best enjoyed straight away while the rice paper is still crisp.

Notes & Variations

• Vegan / plant-based: Swap prawns for crispy tofu or tempeh and use vegan mayo.

• Fish option: Smoked or fresh salmon works beautifully here.

• Extra crunch: Add finely sliced cucumber or radish.

• Heat level: Adjust chilli mayo to taste or add fresh chilli.

• No nori? Sesame seeds alone still work perfectly.

A mindful moment 🌿

This is a great dish to eat slowly and with your hands. Notice the contrast between the crisp shell and the fresh, creamy filling. Pause between bites and check in — not to judge, but to simply notice when you feel satisfied.

Food like this is meant to be enjoyed. Crunch included.