Description
Firecracker Shrimp is a crispy and spicy appetizer featuring large shrimp coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust, fried to golden perfection, and served with a zesty sweet chili sriracha dipping sauce. Perfect as a flavorful starter or party snack that combines crunch and heat in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Coating
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnish and Frying
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 1/2 inch in skillet)
Instructions
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Beat the Egg: In a separate bowl, beat the large egg until smooth and well combined, preparing it for coating the shrimp.
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl, ready for the final coating step.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each peeled and deveined shrimp first into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally coat it evenly with the panko breadcrumbs. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate while you heat the oil.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), ensuring it is hot enough for frying.
- Fry the Shrimp: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully fry the shrimp in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently. Once done, remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and evenly blended.
- Serve: Arrange the crispy shrimp on a serving platter. Drizzle the spicy dipping sauce over the shrimp or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the dipping sauce to control the heat level according to your preference.
- For a lighter version, you can bake the shrimp at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-12 minutes instead of frying, though frying gives the best crispiness.
- Ensure the oil temperature remains around 350°F to avoid greasy shrimp; too cool and the shrimp will absorb oil.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used but will be less crispy.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor as the shrimp tend to lose crispiness when cooled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Firecracker Shrimp, Crispy Shrimp, Spicy Shrimp, Fried Shrimp, Appetizer, Party Snack, Seafood
