A tantalizing appetizer or vibrant main course featuring crispy, golden-fried shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet dynamite sauce. This recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil recommended)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Japanese mayo like Kewpie adds a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low sodium is recommended)
Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds (toasted sesame seeds enhance the flavor)
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all the shrimp are coated evenly. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes. The buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. The cornstarch adds a light and crispy texture to the fried shrimp, while the flour provides structure.
Step 3: Heat the Frying Oil
Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or fryer so that it’s at least 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. If the oil is not hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
Step 4: Bread and Fry the Shrimp
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Gently place the breaded shrimp into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet or fryer. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Cool
Remove the fried shrimp from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Prepare the Dynamite Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the dynamite sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, honey, lime juice, and soy sauce until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more sriracha for extra heat or honey for a touch of sweetness.
Step 7: Assemble the Dynamite Shrimp
In a large bowl, gently toss the fried shrimp with the dynamite sauce until evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the breading to become soggy.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the dynamite shrimp to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately as an appetizer or over rice or salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Explosion of Flavor: The dynamite sauce is the star of the show, providing a creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy flavor profile that’s utterly addictive.
- Crispy Texture: The cornstarch in the breading ensures the shrimp are perfectly crispy.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile: Dynamite Shrimp can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a topping for tacos or bowls.
- Customizable Spice Level: Easily adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Serve over a bed of steamed white rice or brown rice.
- Serve over a fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette.
- Wrap in lettuce cups for a healthy and refreshing appetizer.
- Serve with a side of edamame or other Asian-inspired side dishes.
Tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Fry the shrimp in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lime juice and green onions will provide the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: Start with a small amount of sriracha and add more to taste.
- Make ahead: The dynamite sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat leftover dynamite shrimp in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 25g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 500mg per serving
Conclusion:
Dynamite Shrimp is a recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite. With its combination of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and vibrant flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the explosive deliciousness for yourself!
Q&A:
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely before marinating in the buttermilk. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help them crisp up better when fried.
Q2: What if I don’t have buttermilk? Can I use a substitute?
A: Absolutely! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Q3: Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying them?
A: While frying yields the best crispy texture, you can bake the shrimp for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. They won’t be as crispy as fried shrimp, but still delicious.
Q4: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for the best results.
Q5: Can I use a different type of hot sauce instead of sriracha?
A: Yes, you can substitute other hot sauces like gochujang, sambal oelek, or even a few dashes of your favorite chili garlic sauce. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change depending on the hot sauce you use, so adjust the amount to taste.
