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Crispy Firecracker Shrimp Poppers

crispy firecracker shrimp poppers - featured image

Crispy shrimp poppers tossed in a sticky, spicy glaze that delivers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Quick and easy to make, these poppers are perfect for parties, casual dinners, or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail off for easier popping)
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (64g) cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) cold sparkling water
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (peanut or canola oil recommended)
  • 1/3 cup (100g) honey
  • 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry 1 lb (450g) of shrimp. Ensure they are completely dry to help the batter stick better. Set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (64g) cornstarch, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat 1 large egg and add 3/4 cup (180ml) cold sparkling water. Gradually combine wet ingredients into dry, whisking gently until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot to a depth of about 2.5 inches (6 cm). Heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  5. Dip shrimp into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully place a few shrimp at a time into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  6. While frying, combine 1/3 cup (100g) honey, 2 tbsp sriracha, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tsp toasted sesame oil in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat.
  7. Once all shrimp are fried, place them in a large bowl. Pour the warm spicy glaze over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  8. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan to keep oil temperature steady. Pat shrimp dry before battering to avoid soggy coating and oil splatter. Toss shrimp gently in glaze to keep coating crispy. To keep shrimp crispy before serving, place on wire rack in a warm oven (200°F/95°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp poppers, firecracker shrimp, crispy shrimp, spicy shrimp, appetizer, party snack, fried shrimp, spicy glaze