Firecracker Shrimp is a spicy, flavorful dish that delivers a punch with a sweet and tangy sauce. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main course for those who love a bit of heat. Here’s how you can make it:
Firecracker Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Firecracker Sauce:
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for more heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk together.
- Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Fry the Shrimp:
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), add the shrimp in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Make the Firecracker Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Toss and Serve:
- Once the shrimp have drained, toss them in the firecracker sauce until they’re fully coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Firecracker Shrimp over rice, alongside a salad, or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a slaw to balance the heat.
Enjoy the spicy kick of these Firecracker Shrimp! Let me know if you’d like to adjust the heat or sweetness levels.