Dynamite Shrimp Recipe

If you’re searching for a flavor-packed appetizer that truly wows every single time, look no further than Dynamite Shrimp. Juicy shrimp are lightly battered, fried to golden crispness, and drenched in a creamy, tangy, spicy sauce that lives up to its explosive name. It’s the perfect blend of heat and umami, and you’ll find yourself going back for just one more bite… until the plate mysteriously disappears!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Dynamite Shrimp so irresistible is the simple yet well-balanced ingredient list—every component brings something special to the flavor, crunch, or saucy finish. Let’s look at how each ingredient creates the magic in this dish!

• Shrimp: Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the juiciest texture and easiest eating.
• Buttermilk: Fresh buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp and creates a tangy base for the batter.
• Cornstarch: This is key for an ultra-crispy coating; don’t skip it!
• All-purpose flour: Gives the batter body and helps it cling to the shrimp.
• Garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory depth to both the batter and overall flavor.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• Black pepper: A pinch gives a subtle earthiness and sharpness to the batter.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying.
• Mayonnaise: Forms the rich, creamy base of the dynamite sauce.
• Sriracha: Brings the fire! Adjust up or down for your ideal spice level.
• Honey: A touch balances the heat with a whisper of sweetness.
• Rice vinegar: Adds acidity to brighten and lift the sauce beautifully.

How to Make Dynamite Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together your buttermilk, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The end result should be a smooth, lump-free batter that hugs every shrimp. This combo creates an extra light and crispy shell once fried, which is the secret to that signature crunch in Dynamite Shrimp.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Gently toss your peeled and deveined shrimp into the batter, ensuring every nook and cranny is totally covered. You want the batter to wrap each shrimp in a perfect hug—this ensures a consistent crunch and flavor in every bite you take.

Step 3: Fry Until Crispy

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep pot to 350°F. Working in batches (to keep the oil temperature steady), carefully lower shrimp into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden-brown and deliciously crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the finished shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate—this quickly soaks up any excess oil so the crisp stays intact.

Step 4: Make the Dynamite Sauce

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until silky and orange-hued. This is your dynamite sauce: zippy, creamy, and completely irresistible. Feel free to tweak the Sriracha here to find your ideal level of “boom.”

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Pop the fried shrimp into a large bowl, pour over all that luscious dynamite sauce, and gently toss until every single piece is coated. Serve immediately while the shrimp are still hot and the coating is crisp for the ultimate Dynamite Shrimp experience!

How to Serve Dynamite Shrimp

Garnishes

A little sprinkle goes a long way—top your Dynamite Shrimp with sliced green onions or a shower of toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and bright, fresh flavor. Lemon wedges or even a sprinkle of chili flakes add extra zing if you’re feeling fancy!

Side Dishes

Dynamite Shrimp are perfect solo, but pair beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, crunchy Asian slaw, or scoops of sticky sushi rice for a full meal. For a lighter option, try serving them in crisp lettuce cups—it turns this appetizer into a refreshing, hand-held bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate! Pile Dynamite Shrimp into a martini glass for a fun party starter, serve on skewers for easy mingling, or tuck into mini toasted buns for spicy shrimp sliders. However you serve them, they’ll steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have extra Dynamite Shrimp? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They’ll lose a bit of their initial crispness, but the flavors remain bold and crave-worthy—perfect for a quick snack or lunch.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, fry the battered shrimp but leave them unsauced. Cool completely and freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Wait to toss in the Dynamite Shrimp sauce until after reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover fried shrimp in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5-8 minutes until hot and crisp. Only then should you toss them in a fresh batch of the sauce—this way, you get that just-fried texture plus all the saucy goodness.

FAQs

How spicy is Dynamite Shrimp?

It has a pleasant kick! The Sriracha provides heat, but the creamy mayo and sweet honey balance things beautifully. You can always use less Sriracha if you prefer mild, or double it for a bigger chili blast.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure they’re completely thawed and pat them dry before battering. This helps the batter stick and keeps your oil from sputtering.

Is there a way to make it gluten-free?

Yes—swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and double-check your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. The results are fantastic and every bit as crispy.

What’s the best oil for frying Dynamite Shrimp?

Go for a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, which can handle high heat and won’t flavor the shrimp. Fresh oil is best for super crispy results.

Do I have to double-fry the shrimp?

It’s not required, but double-frying (fry once, rest briefly, then fry again) gives an incredibly extra-crisp shell. If you love crunch, give it a try next time!

Final Thoughts

Dynamite Shrimp brings people together with its irresistible heat, addictively crispy bite, and creamy sauce that zings with every mouthful. It’s a fun, easy recipe you’ll want to trot out for gatherings, game nights, or just to treat yourself at home—don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again!

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