This firecracker shrimp recipe combines lightly coated crunchy fried shrimp with an incredible sweet and spicy firecracker shrimp sauce recipe that will make your smile like it’s the Fourth of July. This spicy fried shrimp is so simple, can be made in under 30 minutes and the heat level is adjustable so it’s ideal for families, too!
Pat dry the shrimp with a paper towel and place the shrimp on a medium bowl. Add cornstarch, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix it well until the shrimp is well coated with the flour.
Deep fry the shrimp on a medium flame until golden and crispy for 3-5 minutes. Work on batches and set aside.
To a skillet add sweet chili sauce, honey, lemon juice, sriracha, garlic and ginger. Allow the sauce to come together on a medium flame for 2 minutes.
Add the fried shrimp along with the red chili flakes, sesame seeds and lemon zest. Toss the shrimp until well coated with the sauce.
Garnish the firecracker shrimp with green onions and serve.
Notes
Choose shrimp that have been peeled and deveined.
If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely before proceeding with the recipe.
Thoroughly dry the shrimp on paper towels before coating with cornstarch.
Shrimp cook quickly so keep an eye on them and don’t overcook them.
When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
No lemons? Use orange zest and juice in place of the lemon in the firecracker shrimp sauce recipe for a flavorful citrus swap.
Easily adjust the heat of the Firecracker shrimp sauce by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha and red pepper flake.