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firecracker shrimp recipe

This firecracker shrimp recipe delivers a delicious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these pan-fried shrimp are coated in a vibrant, tangy sauce that’s sure to impress. Serve them over rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch
  • 0.25 cup vegetable oil for frying
For the Firecracker Sauce
  • 0.5 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
For Garnish
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a medium bowl, gently toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the beaten egg until each shrimp is lightly coated. Ensure all shrimp are covered.
  2. Add the cornstarch to the bowl with the shrimp and toss again until the shrimp are evenly coated. This will create a light crispy crust when fried.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, sriracha, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Set this firecracker sauce aside.
Cooking Steps
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add half of the cornstarch-coated shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  2. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate. Repeat this process with the remaining shrimp.
  3. Once all shrimp are cooked, return them all to the skillet. Pour the prepared firecracker sauce over the shrimp and toss gently to coat them completely. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and adhere to the shrimp.
Serving
  1. Remove the firecracker shrimp from heat. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
  2. Serve immediately with steamed white rice, noodles, or a side of your favorite stir-fried vegetables.

Notes

For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha. The cornstarch coating helps create a lovely texture, so don't skip it!