Name: Crispy Dynamite Shrimp: A Spicy Crunch You'll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound shelled and deveined shrimp; 1 cup cooking oil (for deep frying); 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust for spice preference); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 large egg (for binding); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornflour/cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust for heat); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup; 2 cups lettuce (for serving); 1/4 cup spring onions or chives (for garnish); 1 tablespoon black and white sesame seeds (for decoration)

As I rummaged through my pantry one afternoon, the vibrant colors of the spices caught my eye, igniting a culinary adventure. Enter Crispy Dynamite Shrimp with a Spicy Sriracha Twist—a dish that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this Japanese-inspired treat that’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a solo snack. Each bite features a satisfying crunch cradling tender shrimp, all generously coated in a creamy Sriracha sauce that lets you customize the heat level to your liking. Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a must-try for any home chef. Are you ready to dive into this explosion of flavor?

Why is this shrimp recipe a must-try?

Quick and Easy: You can whip up these crispy shrimp in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its delightful crunch and customizable heat, this dish will impress friends and family, leaving them asking for seconds.

Versatile Options: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu to cater to different tastes or dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish!

Flavor Explosion: The creamy Sriracha sauce enhances each bite with a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, reminiscent of beloved Japanese appetizers.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to a flavorful snack, this Crispy Dynamite Shrimp fits the bill effortlessly. For more delicious shrimp ideas, try pairing it with Grilled Shrimp Bowl or Spicy Shrimp Burritos.

Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Ingredients

Get ready to explore the tasty components that make this dish shine!

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use shelled and deveined shrimp for ease; you can also substitute with prawns or chicken.
• Cooking oil – Essential for deep frying; ensure it reaches the right temperature for that perfect crispiness.
• Red chili powder – Adds heat and vibrant color; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Smoked paprika – Elevates flavor with a gentle smokiness.
• Salt – Crucial for seasoning; adjust based on your taste.
• Soy sauce – Brings umami and moisture to the mix.
• Egg – Acts as a binding agent to help the coating stick.

For the Coating
• All-purpose flour – Bases the dredging mix and contributes to the delightful crunch.
• Cornflour/cornstarch – Key for achieving extra crunch in your crispy coating.
• Garlic powder – Infuses a wonderful flavor and aroma.

For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
• Sriracha sauce – Delivers the signature heat; feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
• Tomato ketchup – Provides tang and a lovely color to the sauce.

For Serving
• Lettuce – Use as a fresh base for serving; it adds a nice crunch.
• Spring onions or chives – Perfect for garnish, enhancing flavor and visual appeal.
• Black and white sesame seeds – Elevates both texture and decoration on the dish.

Don’t wait to try out this delicious recipe for Crispy Dynamite Shrimp!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Dynamite Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, honey, and tomato ketchup. Use a whisk to mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the Sriracha to suit your preferred heat level. Set the sauce aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you work on the rest of the Crispy Dynamite Shrimp.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a large mixing bowl, add your shelled and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle with red chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, and soy sauce. Crack an egg into the bowl and mix all ingredients together until the shrimp are well coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors, ensuring a tasty outcome.

Step 3: Make the Dredging Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornflour (or cornstarch), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will create a crisp coating for your shrimp. Once it’s well mixed, set it aside and prepare to coat your marinated shrimp for that irresistible crunch.

Step 4: Heat Oil
In a deep, heavy-bottomed pan, pour enough cooking oil to reach a depth of at least 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat, monitoring with a thermometer until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for frying to achieve that perfect golden-brown, crispy texture.

Step 5: Coat Shrimp
Once your oil is hot, take the marinated shrimp and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess coating. Ensure each shrimp is thoroughly covered; this step is key for achieving the signature crunch of Crispy Dynamite Shrimp.

Step 6: Fry
Carefully lower the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack or sieve.

Step 7: Toss in Sauce
Place the fried shrimp into a large bowl and drizzle the prepared sauce over them. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly, making sure every shrimp is enveloped in that creamy, spicy goodness. The contrast of flavors will create an exciting taste experience.

Step 8: Serve
Arrange the Crispy Dynamite Shrimp on a bed of fresh lettuce, garnishing with chopped spring onions or chives, and a sprinkle of black and white sesame seeds. For an extra touch, serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick. Enjoy this delightful dish fresh out of the kitchen!

What to Serve with Crispy Dynamite Shrimp?

Looking to build a delightful meal around these crunchy, spicy bites? Let’s explore the perfect pairings!

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture nicely contrasts the crunch of the shrimp, making every bite a delightful experience.
Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing blend of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds brightness and a crispness that balances the dish’s heat.
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of the fries melds beautifully with the spicy sriracha shrimp, creating a delicious harmony of flavors.
Garlic Butter Noodles: This simple pasta dish tossed in garlic butter offers a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the shrimp’s bold flavors.
Coconut Rice: The creamy coconut tones in the rice help soothe the heat from the shrimp, making for a balanced and enjoyable meal.
Cold Mango Salsa: The sweetness and acidity of fresh mango, lime, and cilantro add a vibrant touch, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp while providing a refreshing contrast.
Crisp Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried, tempura veggies introduce a delightful crunch while echoing the Japanese-inspired theme of the shrimp.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: This light, refreshing soup provides a cooling effect against the spiciness of the shrimp, making it a perfect starter.
Aromatic Green Tea: Pairing with this herbaceous drink helps cleanse the palate, enhancing the overall dining experience while providing a gentle earthy note.
Mini Cheesecakes: End on a sweet note; the creamy, tangy flavor of cheesecakes beautifully contrasts the spicy, savory shrimp for a satisfying finale.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Dynamite Shrimp

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked shrimp out for more than 2 hours, as this can pose food safety risks.

Fridge: Store leftover crispy dynamite shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore their delightful crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat straight from the freezer in the oven, ensuring they are heated thoroughly to maintain their crispy texture.

Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Variations

Feel free to play around with these delightful twists that will elevate your Crispy Dynamite Shrimp to new heights!

Chicken Option: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast, marinating and cooking the same way for a delicious alternative.
Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian twist, swap shrimp with firm tofu. Press the tofu to eliminate excess moisture before marinating for better flavor absorption.
Double Dredge: For extra crunch, dip the shrimp in egg wash and dredge in the flour mixture a second time before frying. This guarantees a mouthwatering crispy coating!
Saucy Citrus: Brighten the flavor by adding fresh lime juice or zest to your sauce, enhancing the overall taste profile with a refreshing kick.
Sweet and Spicy Fusion: Mix in sweet chili sauce along with Sriracha for a sweet-and-spicy combination that will tantalize your taste buds.
Garlic Lovers’ Dream: Elevate the flavor by adding fresh minced garlic to the dredging mix, creating an aromatic and intense garlic experience in every bite.
Heat It Up: If you crave heat, don’t shy away from increasing the Sriracha in your sauce or adding red pepper flakes to the mix for an extra fiery kick!
Savory Garnish: Top your dish with crispy fried shallots or garlic for added texture and a savory flavor boost that’s simply irresistible.

These variations ensure that you can adapt the Crispy Dynamite Shrimp for every culinary craving! If you’re looking for more scrumptious shrimp ideas, consider whipping up Fiery Thai Shrimp or enjoy some scrumptious Baked Buffalo Wings alongside. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Dynamite Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; just combine them with red chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and egg, then refrigerate. Additionally, the creamy Sriracha sauce can be whipped up ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in the flour mixture and fry them fresh; this ensures they stay crispy and delicious. Remember, frying them right before serving will give you that unbeatable crunch that makes these shrimp truly irresistible!

Expert Tips for Crispy Dynamite Shrimp

Pat Dry First: Ensure shrimp are patted dry before seasoning; this helps the coating adhere better, preventing sogginess.
Perfect Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for the ideal frying experience; too hot can burn, and too cool leads to greasy shrimp.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the shrimp right after frying. They’ll maintain their crispy exterior and delightful crunch.
Adjust Sauce Heat: Customizing the heat level is key; start with less sriracha and add more until you reach your preferred spiciness for these crispy dynamite shrimp.
Double-Dredge for Extra Crunch: For an irresistible texture, try double-dredging the shrimp by dipping them in egg wash and then the flour mix again before frying.

Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor and texture, choose high-quality, fresh shrimp that are shelled and deveined. Look for shrimp with a firm texture and a mild scent of the ocean. Frozen shrimp can also be used; just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning to achieve the best coating adhesion.

How should I store leftover Crispy Dynamite Shrimp?
You can store leftover crispy dynamite shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness when reheating, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures the shrimp will regain their delightful crunch!

Can I freeze cooked shrimp, and if so, how?
Yes! Freezing baked shrimp is a great way to extend their shelf life. Start by placing your cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat directly from the freezer in the oven, which helps maintain their crispy texture.

What should I do if my shrimp coating isn’t crispy?
If your shrimp aren’t crispy, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure the oil is the correct temperature (350°F or 175°C). If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become soggy. Additionally, make sure the shrimp are patted dry before seasoning and fully coated in the dredging mix. If you want extra crunch, try the double-dredge method: after dipping in egg, coat again in the flour mixture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, while Crispy Dynamite Shrimp is a delicious treat, it’s important to be mindful of dietary preferences. This dish contains shellfish and may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies. For a gluten-free alternative, you can use gluten-free flour and cornflour. If you’re substituting with chicken or tofu, remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken may take longer to cook through.

What alternatives can I use for the Sriracha in the sauce?
Very! If you’re looking to adjust the heat, consider using a milder hot sauce or even a sweet chili sauce for a slightly different flavor profile. For those who prefer no heat, you can leave out Sriracha altogether and add some lime juice for brightness, or opt for a creamy ranch dressing to keep it smooth and tangy.

These Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Recipe FAQs will help you nail that flavorful crunch and make cooking a delightful experience!