Description
This Sweet & Spicy Firecracker Shrimp recipe is a perfect balance of crispy fried shrimp and a tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it an ideal appetizer or a complete meal served over rice. With flavors that are both savory and slightly spicy, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Firecracker Sauce:
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp (21-25 per pound), peeled and deveined, tail on
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, tamari or soy sauce, honey, Sriracha, lemon juice, lemon zest, water, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Coat each shrimp evenly in the flour mixture.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Beat the egg in a small bowl. Dip the flour-coated shrimp into the beaten egg, then return them to the flour mixture for a second coating. Fry the shrimp in the oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
- Combine and Serve: Wipe out the skillet and return it to heat. Pour in the firecracker sauce and bring it to a boil. Add the fried shrimp back into the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly with the sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped chives. Serve immediately over rice or as an appetizer.
Notes
- Adjusting Spice Level: Modify the amount of Sriracha sauce to control the heat. For a milder version, reduce or omit the Sriracha entirely.
- Adding Vegetables: Incorporate sliced bell peppers or onions into the sauce for added flavor and texture.
- Alternative Proteins: You can swap shrimp for chicken breast pieces for a different protein option.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
