Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with our Zesty Shrimp Delight! This recipe combines the perfect blend of spice and crunch, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this easy-to-follow guide.
Shrimp are the star of the show here, offering a mild, sweet flavor and firm texture that crisps up beautifully when fried. The coating of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a light, crispy exterior. A touch of salt and black pepper seasons the shrimp without overpowering them. Buttermilk ensures the flour mixture adheres well and adds a slight tang. For the sauce, mayonnaise provides a creamy base, while sweet chili sauce and sriracha contribute a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. A splash of lime juice brightens the flavors, while vegetable oil is ideal for frying due to its neutral taste. Finally, chopped green onions add a fresh, vibrant finish.
Serve your Zesty Shrimp Delight over a bed of warm jasmine rice or alongside a fresh garden salad for a light, refreshing meal. A squeeze of extra lime over the top adds a zesty kick. Pair with a cool, crisp white wine or a chilled lager to complement the rich flavors.
Start by preparing your coating mixture. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Give it a quick whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Now, move on to the shrimp. Dip each piece into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. You might want to press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
Heat your vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or a large pot. If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small piece of coated flour into the oil; it should sizzle and float to the top. Fry the shrimp in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pot, for about 3-4 minutes until they're golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Whisk until smooth and taste to adjust the heat level if necessary.
Once all the shrimp are fried, toss them in the sauce until well-coated. Make sure each piece is generously covered for maximum flavor.