Description
Firecracker Shrimp is a spicy, crispy, and flavor-packed appetizer or dinner made with golden-fried shrimp tossed in a bold, tangy firecracker sauce. It’s perfect for parties or an exciting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off depending on preference)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup cold water (adjust as needed for batter consistency)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Firecracker Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper; one with whisked egg; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, ensuring even coverage.
3. Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Test with a small piece of bread — it should sizzle and turn golden in 30 seconds.
4. Working in batches, fry the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Remove fried shrimp and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining shrimp.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, lime juice, and garlic powder.
7. Pour sauce into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
8. In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried shrimp in the prepared firecracker sauce until evenly coated.
9. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds.
10. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy shrimp, chill them for 10 minutes after breading before frying. You can also bake or air fry the shrimp for a lighter version. Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the sriracha and red pepper flakes.