If you’re craving a dish that packs a punch while being simple to prepare, let me introduce you to my Crispy Dynamite Shrimp with Spicy Mayonnaise Sauce. The first time I pulled these golden bites from the fryer and tossed them in a creamy, spicy sauce, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The crunch of the shrimp combined with the tangy kick from the sriracha takes your taste buds on a delightful adventure that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a personal treat after a long day, this Japanese-inspired dish is not only quick to prepare—whipping up in just 20 minutes—but it also transforms any meal into something extraordinary. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; whether you’re using shrimp, prawns, or even chicken, the deliciousness remains intact. Join me in making this dish that promises to impress, whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself to a flavorful escape!
Why will you love Dynamite Shrimp?
Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality appetizer at your fingertips!
Addictive Crunch: The golden, crispy coating envelops tender shrimp, creating a satisfying texture with every bite.
Spicy Kick: The creamy spicy mayonnaise elevates the flavor, making it perfect for heat lovers.
Endless Variations: Easily swap shrimp for prawns or chicken, catering to different preferences and dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a party or a cozy night in, these bites are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Versatile Sauce: Customize the heat level by adjusting sriracha—perfect for both spice newbies and seasoned enthusiasts!
Dynamite Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Main protein; be sure to shelled and devein. Substitute with prawns or chicken (adjust cooking time for chicken).
• Cooking Oil – Essential for deep frying; choose oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola.
For the Coating
• Red Chili Powder – Adds spiciness; adjust based on your heat preference.
• Smoked Paprika – Provides depth of flavor; can be replaced with regular paprika if needed.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; don’t skip this!
• Soy Sauce – Gives umami depth; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Egg – Binds the coating; can omit for a lighter version.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates that crispy exterior; substitute with gluten-free flour if necessary.
• Cornflour/Cornstarch – Lightens the batter for extra crispiness; no substitutes required for texture.
• Garlic Powder – Adds flavor; fresh garlic is an option, but may alter texture.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – The base for the sauce; contributes creamy richness. Swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Sriracha Sauce – Pack in spice and flavor; adjust for desired heat level.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness; can replace with agave syrup or omit for less sweetness.
• Tomato Ketchup – For tang and color; can be skipped for a more authentic taste.
For Serving
• Lettuce – Serves as a fresh bed for shrimp; optional but recommended for added crunch.
• Spring Onions/Chives – For garnish that adds a refreshing bite.
• Black & White Sesame Seeds – For garnishing, adding lovely texture.
How to Make Dynamite Shrimp
-
Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and ketchup until smooth. Set this vibrant sauce aside for later—it’s the perfect blend of creamy and spicy!
-
Marinate Shrimp: In a separate bowl, combine the shelled and deveined shrimp with red chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and egg. Mix well until the shrimp is evenly coated and let it soak up those delightful flavors for about 5 minutes.
-
Create Coating: In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornflour, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will provide the crispy crunch that makes these shrimp special.
-
Heat Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat about two inches of oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you drop in a small piece of shrimp—about 350°F.
-
Fry Shrimp: Dredge the marinated shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Carefully place them in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or sieve to remove excess oil.
-
Combine: Once the shrimp have cooled slightly, toss them in the prepared sauce until fully coated. The combination of crispy texture and rich flavor will make your mouth water!
-
Serve: Layer fresh lettuce on a platter, top with the coated shrimp, and garnish with chopped spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra flair.
Optional: Pair with a slice of lime for a burst of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Dynamite Shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices and flavors to penetrate deeply. Simply combine the shrimp with red chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and egg, then refrigerate. The sauce can be prepared ahead too; mix the mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and ketchup, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the marinated shrimp as directed and coat them in the sauce. This saves you time without compromising on taste—your Dynamite Shrimp will be just as delicious and full of flavor!
What to Serve with Dynamite Shrimp?
A decadent feast awaits, elevating your crispy bites into a full dining experience.
-
Creamy Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty side brings freshness and complements the shrimp’s heat, offering a soothing balance to each bite.
-
Sesame Slaw: The crunch from the cabbage and carrot pairs perfectly with the shrimp, creating a colorful contrast of textures while adding a refreshing crunch.
-
Asian-style Cucumber Salad: Lightly pickled cucumbers provide a cool, tangy note that’s invigorating and enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.
-
Spicy Edamame: Tossed in sea salt and chili flakes, these vibrant beans add an extra kick and a protein boost, enticing you to indulge just a bit more.
-
Mango Mojito Mocktail: A refreshing drink with a splash of sweetness to offset the savory shrimp, making it an ideal companion for this dish.
-
Garlic Butter Noodles: Silky noodles tossed in garlic and butter create an irresistible base that complements the crispy shrimp, adding a delightful heartiness.
-
Pineapple Fried Rice: This dish combines sweetness and savory flavors, harmonizing beautifully with the spicy dynamite shrimp and bringing a tropical flare.
-
Chocolate Lava Cake: End on a sweet note with a rich dessert that contrasts with the meal’s spiciness. Each bite of molten chocolate is sure to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Dynamite Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to restore some crunch.
Freezer: For freezing, place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, oven-bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—this helps retain their crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Sauce Storage: The spicy mayonnaise sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for dipping fresh shrimp!
Dynamite Shrimp Variations
Feel free to customize your dynamite shrimp experience with these flavorful twists that are sure to excite your taste buds!
-
Prawn Swap: Use prawns instead of shrimp for a slightly different texture, retaining that satisfying crunch.
-
Chicken Option: Substitute with chicken strips for a hearty twist; adjust frying time accordingly for juicy results.
-
Gluten-Free Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
-
Creamy Greek Yogurt: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy sauce that still delights the palate.
-
Heat Boost: Add more sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra punch if you’re craving something fiery.
-
Sweet Heat: Mix in some diced pineapple or mango to the sauce for a tropical twist that balances the spice nicely.
-
Crispy Veggie Version: Use zucchini or cauliflower bites for a delightful vegetarian alternative that’s equally crispy and flavorful.
-
Dipping Sauce Bar: Serve with various dipping sauces like sweet chili or garlic aioli to give guests a fun variety to explore!
Expert Tips for Dynamite Shrimp
-
Oil Temperature Check: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; test with a small shrimp or a pinch of flour to avoid greasy shrimp.
-
Batch Frying: Fry shrimp in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can make them soggy instead of crispy.
-
Coating Consistency: Coat shrimp evenly for the best crunch. Shake off any excess flour to ensure a light, crispy texture.
-
Serve Fresh: Enjoy dynamite shrimp right after frying for the best texture. Reheating can compromise that delightful crunch.
-
Adjusting Spice Levels: Modify the sriracha in the sauce to cater to your heat preference; a little goes a long way for those sensitive to spice.
Dynamite Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for fresh, firm, and translucent specimens, avoiding any with dark spots or a strong odor. If possible, go for shrimp that are wild-caught for added flavor. Shelled and deveined shrimp work best here, but if you can only find large prawn, that’s a tasty substitute too!
What’s the best way to store leftover Dynamite Shrimp?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Try to reheat them gently on a cooking surface rather than the microwave, which can make them lose their satisfying crunch. A quick sauté or oven reheating can work wonders!
Can I freeze Dynamite Shrimp? How?
Yes, you can freeze them! After frying, let the shrimp cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to push out as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply bake them at 350°F (175°C) until hot, helping to maintain their crispy texture.
What if my shrimp aren’t crispy enough after frying?
Very! If your shrimp don’t turn out as crispy as desired, check the oil temperature—it should be heated to about 350°F (175°C) for frying. Additionally, be mindful of not overcrowding the frying pan; frying in batches allows for even cooking and a better crunch. If you like, shaking off excess flour also helps!
Can I make this recipe for someone with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can swap shrimp for chicken to cater to preferences or to accommodate a non-seafood eater. For gluten-free options, consider using tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free flour in the coating. Also, adjusting the amount of sriracha can make it suitable for those sensitive to spice. Just check labels for allergies!
How long can I store the spicy mayonnaise sauce?
You’ll be happy to know that the spicy mayonnaise sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It’s a fantastic opportunity to utilize it for sandwiches, salads, or as a delicious dip, so don’t hesitate to whip up a double batch!
Savory Dynamite Shrimp with Creamy Spicy Sauce at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and ketchup until smooth. Set this vibrant sauce aside for later.
- Marinate Shrimp: In a separate bowl, combine shrimp with red chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and egg. Mix well and let sit for about 5 minutes.
- Create Coating: In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornflour, garlic powder, and salt.
- Heat Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat about two inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F.
- Fry Shrimp: Dredge marinated shrimp in the flour mixture and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.
- Combine: Toss fried shrimp in the prepared sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Layer lettuce on a platter, top with shrimp, and garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds.