This Firecracker Shrimp recipe delivers a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Featuring crispy shrimp tossed in a tangy, zesty sauce, it's perfect as an appetizer or a main dish.
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ cup cornstarch
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
¼ cup canola oil (for frying)
For the Firecracker Sauce:
½ cup sweet chili garlic sauce
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons honey
1–2 tablespoons lemon zest
½ teaspoon Sriracha sauce
½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
½ teaspoon garlic salt
Optional Garnishes:
Sesame seeds
Chopped fresh chives
Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
Coat the Shrimp:
In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and garlic powder. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring an even coat. Dip them into the beaten eggs, then return to the cornstarch mixture for a second coating.
Fry the Shrimp:
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches, about 4–6 at a time, for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili garlic sauce, lemon juice, honey, lemon zest, Sriracha sauce, grated ginger, and garlic salt until well combined.
Toss the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, gently toss the fried shrimp with the prepared sauce until evenly coated.
Serve:
Transfer the coated shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately.
Calories: Approximately 225 kcal
Protein: 23 g
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 2421 mg
Cholesterol: 286 mg
Potassium: 101 mg
Calcium: 164 mg
Iron: 2 mg