Crispy Orange Shrimp

Crispy Orange Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers a punch of flavor in just 30 minutes. The golden shrimp coated in a sticky orange sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, its versatility means it can be served as an appetizer or over rice as a main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet orange and spicy red pepper flakes creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer or pair it with rice for a hearty main course.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavors and crispy texture are sure to impress your family and friends.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this recipe is accessible and budget-friendly.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crispy Orange Shrimp, having the right kitchen tools will ease your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Large bowl: Ideal for tossing shrimp with cornstarch, ensuring even coating.
• Frying pan: Provides ample space to fry shrimp without overcrowding, leading to crispiness.
• Whisk: Helps mix sauce ingredients thoroughly for a balanced flavor profile.

Ingredients

This crispy Orange Shrimp is one of my favorite quick meals! It’s made with golden shrimp tossed in a sweet, sticky orange sauce with a little kick from crushed red pepper flakes. It’s super flavorful and ready in just 30 minutes. Some folks call it honey orange firecracker shrimp, and once you taste that spicy-sweet sauce, you’ll see why!

For the Shrimp

• 2 pounds medium to large shrimp (18-20 count – peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup canola oil (or more)

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 orange (zested)
• 1/4 cup orange juice (no sugar added)
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For Garnish

• Green onions
• Sesame seeds

How to Make Crispy Orange Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

First, add all the sauce ingredients to a small bowl and whisk until combined.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Next, pat dry the shrimp and add it to a large bowl. Add the cornstarch and toss to coat well.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. You need about 1 inch of oil to cover the bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

In batches, fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until brown and crisp. Make sure to NOT overcrowd the pan.

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Drain onto a plate and DO NOT use paper towels.

Step 6: Combine Sauce and Shrimp

When done frying the shrimp drain the oil, give the prepared sauce a stir, and add it to the pan.

Step 7: Heat Up Sauce

Heat the sauce for a minute or two, then add the shrimp.

Step 8: Toss Together

Very gently toss to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately as an appetizer or with rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch!

How to Serve Crispy Orange Shrimp

Crispy Orange Shrimp is a delightful dish bursting with flavor that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a satisfying main course, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve in small bowls for easy sharing.
• Pair with toothpicks for a fun finger food experience.

Over Rice

• Spoon the shrimp over fluffy jasmine rice.
• The rice absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce beautifully.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Create a colorful plate by adding stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
• This adds crunch and nutrition to your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps.
• Add a slice of cucumber for extra crunch and flavor.

With Noodles

• Toss the shrimp with rice noodles or egg noodles.
• This makes for a hearty and filling dish.

How to Perfect Crispy Orange Shrimp

To achieve the ultimate crispy texture and flavor, follow these simple tips. These tricks will help ensure your shrimp turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will have better texture and flavor compared to frozen options.
• Ensure Oil is Hot Enough: Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of shrimp; it should sizzle immediately.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain high oil temperature, ensuring crispiness.
• Pat Dry Before Coating: Removing excess moisture helps the cornstarch adhere better for a crispier result.
• Let Sauce Thicken: Allowing the sauce to thicken before adding shrimp ensures it clings well and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Orange Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Crispy Orange Shrimp can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy side that adds color and green goodness to your plate.
2. Fried Rice: Fluffy fried rice with peas and carrots makes a satisfying base for the shrimp.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the shrimp.
4. Garlic Naan Bread: Soft bread perfect for absorbing any leftover sauce from the dish.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and depth alongside your meal.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs provides a wholesome contrast to the sweet shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crispy Orange Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your shrimp turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect shrimp size: Using shrimp that are too small can lead to overcooking. Choose medium to large shrimp (18-20 count) for the best results.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Not coating the shrimp in cornstarch will result in a less crispy texture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated before frying.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many shrimp at once lowers the oil temperature and makes them soggy. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.
• Not drying the shrimp: Failing to pat dry the shrimp before coating them can cause excess moisture, preventing them from getting crispy. Always dry them well with a paper towel.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If you don’t allow the sauce to thicken properly after adding the shrimp, it may not cling well. Cook until it’s sticky and coats the shrimp nicely.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Crispy Orange Shrimp

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months but may lose some crispiness upon reheating.

Reheating Crispy Orange Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, but this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to help restore some crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Crispy Orange Shrimp?

Crispy Orange Shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it as an appetizer with dipping sauces.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives while maintaining similar flavors.

How spicy is Crispy Orange Shrimp?

The spice level is adjustable based on your preference. You can reduce or omit crushed red pepper flakes for a milder dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to enjoy this dish without gluten.

Conclusion

This Crispy Orange Shrimp recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With its sweet and spicy flavor profile, you can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Give it a try, and you’ll find it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings!

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