Name: Firecracker Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 egg; ¼ cup water; Oil for frying; ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp rice vinegar; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; 2 tbsp green onions, chopped; 1 tsp sesame seeds

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Firecracker shrimp is an irresistible dish that combines crispy, golden-fried shrimp with a bold and flavorful sauce that balances sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their seafood, making it an excellent appetizer or main course. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, firecracker shrimp is a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home.

Ingredients

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cornstarch
All-purpose flour
Egg
Water
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Oil for frying
Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha sauce
Honey
Rice vinegar
Red pepper flakes
Green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Make the Batter: In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, then coat it evenly in the dry flour mixture.
Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the coated shrimp into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
Toss the Shrimp: Place the fried shrimp in a bowl and pour the sauce over them. Gently toss to coat each shrimp evenly.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Variations

Baked Version: Instead of frying, coat the shrimp with a thin layer of oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer Method: Air fry the shrimp at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Mild Version: Reduce the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes for a less spicy alternative.
Gluten-Free Option: Use rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Extra Crunchy: Double-coat the shrimp by dipping them back into the egg and flour mixture before frying.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the shrimp soggy.

FAQs

How spicy is firecracker shrimp?

The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes used. Reduce or omit them for a milder version.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before coating to prevent excess moisture.

What is the best oil for frying?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for frying shrimp.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What sides pair well with firecracker shrimp?

It pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Can I grill the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes, simply marinate the shrimp in the sauce and grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

How do I prevent soggy shrimp?

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I use another protein?

Yes, chicken or tofu can be substituted for shrimp using the same method.

What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Medium to large shrimp (such as jumbo or extra-large) work best for texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and coat the shrimp in advance, then fry just before serving.

Conclusion

Firecracker shrimp is a perfect dish for those who enjoy a combination of crispy texture and bold, spicy flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this easy-to-make recipe will impress seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts alike. Try it today and bring a restaurant-quality dish to your kitchen!

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