If you love making restaurant-style meals at home, this Firecracker Shrimp recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
With crispy shrimp coated in a sweet, sticky, and spicy sauce, it’s the perfect dish for those who enjoy bold flavors. Serve this over a bed of rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only satisfying but also easy to whip up.
This crispy shrimp recipe stands out with its rich blend of flavors, from tangy buffalo sauce to the hint of garlic. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
How to Make Firecracker Shrimp
This Firecracker Shrimp recipe is incredibly easy to follow. The steps include prepping the shrimp, frying them to crispy perfection, and tossing them in a delicious firecracker sauce. Here’s how you can do it.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Shrimp: Large uncooked shrimp (about 26/30 per pound).
- Flour and cornstarch: These make the shrimp crispy when fried.
- Garlic powder: For an added layer of flavor.
- Buffalo sauce: The key ingredient that gives the firecracker sauce its signature kick.
- Chicken broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, mustard powder: These form the base of the sauce.
- Optional spices: Add chili powder or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- For garnish: Green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a side of rice.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry, then coat them with flour, cornstarch, and garlic powder. Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Combine chicken broth, buffalo sauce, brown sugar, and other sauce ingredients. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Add fried shrimp, toss in the sauce, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp over rice and enjoy!
Is Firecracker Shrimp Spicy?
Yes, the firecracker sauce has a spicy kick, mainly due to the buffalo sauce and optional chili powder.
If you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce the spiciness by using less buffalo sauce or omitting the chili powder. If you love spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Pro Tips for the Best Firecracker Shrimp
- Use the Right Shrimp Size: Opt for large shrimp, which are usually labeled as 26/30 per pound. You can use fresh or frozen, but make sure they’re completely thawed and dried before frying.
- Buffalo Sauce Choice: Frank’s Buffalo Sauce works best for this recipe, but you can use your favorite brand.
- Heat the Oil Properly: The oil should be hot enough for the shrimp to start frying immediately. This ensures a crispy outer coating that stays intact.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid sogginess. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, which affects the crispiness.
- Garnish Options: Top your Firecracker Shrimp with diced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or even honey-roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
FAQs about Firecracker Shrimp
What type of shrimp should I use?
You should use large shrimp (26/30 per pound), which is ideal for frying and absorbs the sauce perfectly.
Can I make the sauce less spicy?
Yes! Reduce the buffalo sauce or omit the chili powder to dial back the heat.
How do I keep the shrimp crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
What sides go well with Firecracker Shrimp?
White rice is the perfect accompaniment, but you can also serve it with noodles or stir-fried vegetables.
Can I store leftover Firecracker Shrimp?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can either microwave the shrimp for a quick fix or reheat them in a skillet to retain some of the crispiness.
Variations and Substitutes
Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations to try:
- Honey Firecracker Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Firecracker Chicken: Swap the shrimp for diced chicken breast and follow the same steps.
- Vegetarian Firecracker Tofu: Use extra-firm tofu instead of shrimp, pressing it beforehand to remove excess moisture.
Serve Firecracker Shrimp with These Dishes
- Rice: This is the perfect pairing with Firecracker Shrimp, especially if you cook it in chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Stir-fried Vegetables: Add some greens like broccoli or bell peppers to round out the meal.
- Noodles: Serve the shrimp over ramen or stir-fried noodles for a heartier option.
Tools You’ll Need
- Skillet: A large skillet to fry the shrimp and cook the sauce.
- Tongs: For flipping the shrimp while frying.
- Mixing bowls: To coat the shrimp and mix the sauce ingredients.
Additional Recipes You May Enjoy
- Shrimp Fra Diavolo: Another spicy shrimp dish with a tomato-based sauce.
- Honey Glazed Salmon: For those who prefer a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Cajun Chicken: A bold, flavorful chicken dish that’s quick and easy to make.
- Beef and Broccoli Ramen: A savory beef and broccoli stir-fry with noodles.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Firecracker Shrimp provides approximately 407 calories, 68 grams of carbohydrates, and 24 grams of protein. It’s a hearty, protein-rich dish that will keep you full and satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
What if the sauce is too thick?
You can add a bit more chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes, simply substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
How long will Firecracker Shrimp last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I make Firecracker Shrimp in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the sauce and shrimp separately, then toss them together just before serving.
References:
This Firecracker Shrimp recipe is sure to become a go-to in your household for its delicious blend of flavors and ease of preparation.