Description
Firecracker shrimp brings a spicy kick to classic seafood appetizers. Quick and easy preparation delivers crispy, zesty bites that you’ll crave at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Liquid and Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Immerse shrimp in buttermilk for 15 minutes to tenderize and enhance flavor absorption.
- Create a zesty coating by mixing cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, and salt in a shallow dish.
- Prepare a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heating oil to precisely 350°F for optimal crispy texture.
- Remove shrimp from buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then thoroughly coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Carefully lower battered shrimp into hot oil, frying in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent overcrowding.
- Fry until shrimp turn a rich golden brown and develop a crisp, crunchy exterior, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Whisk sauce ingredients together in a large mixing bowl, ensuring smooth and even consistency.
- Gently toss hot, freshly fried shrimp in the prepared sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly and generously coated.
- Plate immediately and garnish with finely chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added visual appeal and texture.
Notes
- Marinate shrimp in buttermilk to tenderize and add subtle tangy flavor, helping create a more delicate texture.
- Maintain consistent oil temperature around 350F to ensure crispy, evenly cooked shrimp without absorbing excess oil.
- Pat shrimp completely dry before dredging to help coating adhere better and prevent soggy breading.
- For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or gluten-free blend for equally crunchy results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 572 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 2880 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 82 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 195 mg