Crispy Orange Shrimp is a delightful dish that packs flavor and crunch in every bite. This dish combines tender shrimp with a sweet and tangy orange sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Easy to make, it serves as a fantastic weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for entertaining.
Why We Love This Crispy Orange Shrimp
Crispy Orange Shrimp stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of textures is unbeatable. You get the delightful crunch from the batter-fried shrimp, which contrasts perfectly with the smooth, sticky orange sauce. The shrimp absorbs the flavors of the sauce while still maintaining its juicy interior. Additionally, the flavor profile is vibrant yet balanced. The sweet orange complements the savory notes in the dish, delivering a zesty kick that’s not overpowering. Another appealing aspect is its versatility; it pairs well with various side dishes, making it a flexible option for any meal. Also, the dish comes together fairly quickly, making it ideal for those busy nights when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Your family and friends will love it, and you might even find it becoming a regular in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients for Crispy Orange Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
Start by preparing the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. Make sure they are completely dry for better batter adhesion.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix them well to create the dry batter.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and cold water until it’s frothy. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the dry ingredients until you get a smooth batter.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the shrimp partially.
Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated, and carefully place them into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature.
Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they achieve a golden brown color. Remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
In a separate small saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Once the shrimp are fried and the sauce is ready, drizzle the orange sauce over the crispy shrimp and toss gently to coat.
Serve the shrimp immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of flair.
How to Serve Crispy Orange Shrimp
Crispy Orange Shrimp deserves a spot on your dinner table, and serving it well can elevate the overall experience. Consider serving the shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also accompany it with steamed or sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, adding color and nutrition to your plate. For a fun twist, serve the shrimp in lettuce wraps, allowing each diner to create their own bite-sized delights.
If you’re feeling extra generous, prepare a side of dipping sauce, like a simple sweet chili sauce. The combination of flavors will sure to excite each guest’s palate. Also, serving the dish family-style in a large bowl creates a warm, inviting environment where everyone can help themselves. Don’t forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for an appealing presentation!
Expert Tips for Crispy Orange Shrimp
Achieving the perfect crispy texture for your orange shrimp can be easy if you follow some expert tips. First, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp; this helps create a crispy exterior. To check the oil temperature, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises immediately, you’re set.
Next, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. Frying in batches allows the shrimp to cook evenly and prevents steaming, which can lead to a soggy texture. After frying, place the shrimp on a cooling rack instead of paper towels. A cooling rack lets air circulate around the shrimp, maintaining their crispiness.
When making the orange sauce, don’t rush it. Allow it to simmer and thicken slightly to achieve the right consistency. For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a splash of orange extract or a pinch of chili flakes for heat. Lastly, serve the shrimp immediately after coating with the sauce, as that’s when they will be at their crispiest.
How to Store Crispy Orange Shrimp
If you find yourself with leftover Crispy Orange Shrimp, storing them properly will help maintain their quality. Allow the shrimp to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread the shrimp out on a baking sheet and pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This helps revive their crispiness without making them soggy.
Freezing the shrimp is another option, but it’s best to freeze them before they get coated in the orange sauce. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to cook them, fry them straight from the freezer without thawing for the best results.
Variations of Crispy Orange Shrimp
While the Crispy Orange Shrimp recipe is fantastic as it is, you can also explore various variations to suit different tastes. For a healthier twist, consider baking the shrimp instead of frying them. Lightly coat the shrimp with the batter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray with cooking oil and bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
Adding different flavor profiles is another way to vary this dish. Try infusing the orange sauce with additional ingredients like honey for extra sweetness or a splash of lime juice for an intriguing citrus mix. For a kick, you can include some sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.
If you enjoy a fusion vibe, consider making an Asian-inspired version by incorporating sesame oil and sesame seeds into the batter. You can also try using other proteins, such as tofu or chicken, to create a vegetarian or poultry version. Each variation offers a unique taste experience while keeping the essence of crispy and flavorful intact.
FAQ about Crispy Orange Shrimp
What makes the shrimp crispy? The crispiness comes from the combination of flour and cornstarch in the batter, which creates a light and airy texture when fried.
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before battering and frying them.
How do I ensure the orange sauce isn’t too sweet? If you find the orange sauce too sweet, adjust the sugar amount to your preference or add a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving with the shrimp.
Enjoy making this delectable dish that adds a burst of flavor to your dining experience!
Crispy Orange Shrimp
Ingredients
For the shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend if desired
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying Enough to submerge shrimp partially
For the orange sauce
- 1 Zest of 1 orange
- 1 Juice of 1 orange
- 1/3 cup sugar Adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For garnish
- Green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. Make sure they are completely dry for better batter adhesion.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix them well to create the dry batter.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and cold water until it’s frothy. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the dry ingredients until you get a smooth batter.
Cooking
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat, ensuring enough oil to submerge the shrimp partially.
- Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated, and carefully place them into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they achieve a golden brown color. Remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- In a separate small saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the shrimp are fried and the sauce is ready, drizzle the orange sauce over the crispy shrimp and toss gently to coat.
- Serve the shrimp immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
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