Name: Crispy Dynamite Shrimp with Creamy Spicy Sauce Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Mayo (Provides creaminess.); 0.33 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (Adds sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Sriracha (Adjust for spice preference.); 1 teaspoon Honey (Balances spiciness.); 1 large Egg (Whisked, acts as binder.); 1 teaspoon Soy Sauce (Enhances umami.); 0.67 cup Corn Flour (Key for crispy texture.); 0.5 teaspoon Sea Salt (Essential seasoning.); 0.5 lb Shrimp (Peeled and deveined.); 1 Scallion (Garnish.); Lettuce leaves (For serving.); Additional scallions (For garnish.)

With a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, these Perfectly Crispy Dynamite Shrimp are a delightful homage to the beloved appetizer we often enjoy at Japanese restaurants. As a passionate home chef, I’m always on the lookout for quick recipes that wow my guests, and this one truly delivers. The best part? You can easily customize the heat levels of the spicy mayo sauce to suit your taste, making it a crowd-pleaser for spice enthusiasts and mild-mannered diners alike. Plus, this dish comes together in no time, making it the perfect choice for your next gathering or cozy night in. Are you ready to impress your family or friends with this easy yet impressive dish? Let’s jump in!

Why is Dynamite Shrimp So Irresistible?

Crispy Delights: Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
Savory Meets Spicy: The zesty mayo sauce strikes the perfect balance of flavors, catering to all palates.
Quick Preparation: Get this delectable dish on the table in no time, ideal for busy evenings or unexpected guests.
Customizable Heat: Whether you prefer mild or fiery, adjusting the spice level is easy for anyone.
Impressive Presentation: Serve with fresh lettuce wraps for a restaurant-quality look that will wow your guests.
If you love shrimp, you might also enjoy our Garlic Butter Shrimp for another irresistible seafood treat!

Dynamite Shrimp Ingredients

For the Spicy Mayo Sauce
• ½ Cup Mayo – Provides creaminess and acts as the perfect base for your dynamite shrimp sauce.
• ⅓ Cup Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a delightful sweetness paired with a hint of spice.
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha – Imparts the heat and flavor; adjust to suit your spice preference.
• 1 teaspoon honey – Balances the sauce’s spiciness; omit for a less sweet profile.

For the Batter
• 1 Egg (whisked) – This acts as a binding agent, ensuring the batter sticks beautifully to the shrimp.
• 1 teaspoon Soy Sauce – Enhances the umami flavor, giving that extra depth to your dish.
• ⅔ Cup Corn Flour – The key ingredient for a crispy batter texture; panko also works well for extra crunch.
• ½ teaspoon Sea Salt – Essential for seasoning the batter; adjust according to taste.

For the Shrimp
• ½ lb. Shrimp (Peeled and deveined, medium in size) – The star ingredient; freshness is key to achieving the best flavor.
• 1 Scallion (garnish) – Adds a fresh, aromatic finish to your crispy dynamite shrimp.

Optional Add-Ons
• Lettuce leaves – Use for serving to create a refreshing wrap for your shrimp.
• Additional scallions – For an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Dive into this delightful dynamite shrimp recipe that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dynamite Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by patting the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the batter adhere better and ensures a crispier finish. Aim for approximately ½ pound of shrimp. Once dried, set them aside while you prepare the batter, allowing the shrimp to reach room temperature for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Batter
In a shallow bowl, whisk together one egg, one teaspoon of soy sauce, ⅔ cup of corn flour, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Mix until you achieve a smooth, thick batter that clings well to the shrimp. The consistency should be slightly runny but thick enough to coat the shrimp evenly. This batter will create that delightfully crispy texture for your dynamite shrimp.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into the prepared batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip back into the bowl. This technique helps avoid clumps while frying, ensuring each shrimp becomes evenly coated and delivers that signature crispy bite. Once all shrimp are coated, set them aside for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat—enough to cover the bottom of the pan by about ¼ inch. Once the oil is shimmering, gently add the battered shrimp in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each shrimp for approximately 1 minute on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Dynamite Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the sauce by whisking together ½ cup of mayo, ⅓ cup of sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of Sriracha, and 1 teaspoon of honey in a separate bowl. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Adjust the Sriracha to your preference to balance the heat level in this creamy dynamite sauce.

Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once all shrimp are cooked, promptly toss them in the dynamite sauce until well coated. Serve immediately for optimal crispiness, garnished with sliced scallions for a pop of color. For a refreshing twist, consider serving the shrimp on fresh lettuce leaves, allowing your guests to create their crispy wraps while enjoying this delightful dynamite shrimp experience.

What to Serve with Perfectly Crispy Dynamite Shrimp?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these crispy delights with exciting sides and beverages that complement their vibrant flavors.

Zesty Cucumber Salad: The cool crunch of cucumbers helps balance the shrimp’s spicy kick, making each bite refreshing.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the zesty sauce, enhancing your meal’s texture and flavor.
Crunchy Asian Slaw: A mix of cabbage and carrots tossed in sesame dressing brings freshness and a satisfying crunch to your plate.
Sushi Rolls: Pair with your favorite sushi for a delightful fusion experience—both light and bright flavors that dance together beautifully.
Chilled Sake or White Wine: An icy glass of sake or a crisp Chardonnay perfectly complements the shrimp’s bold flavors, creating a lovely pairing.
Mango Mojito: This tropical drink adds a sweet and minty contrast that refreshes the palate between bites of spicy dynamite shrimp.
Garlic Fried Rice: Seasoned with garlic and scallions, this savory dish offers a delightful flavor profile that matches the shrimp perfectly.
Lettuce Wraps: Serve with fresh greens to create your own wraps, adding a layer of texture while keeping the meal light and fun.

Variations & Substitutions for Dynamite Shrimp

Feel free to explore these creative twists and substitutions to make your dynamite shrimp experience even more delightful!

Panko Crunch: Substitute corn flour with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture. This twist elevates the dish, giving it that satisfying crunch that everyone loves.
Heat Adjustment: Use less Sriracha for a milder sauce, or swap it out for a sweet chili sauce for those who prefer a less spicy option. Adjusting the heat not only caters to everyone’s palate but also makes each bite enjoyable at your gathering.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the sauce for an aromatic lift. This simple addition brings freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
Coconut Flair: Incorporate unsweetened shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical vibe. This twist adds a delightful flavor while still keeping that crispy exterior.
Ginger Kick: Mix freshly grated ginger into the mayo sauce for a zesty zing. This lends a unique flavor profile, reminiscent of Japanese cuisine that will have your guests coming back for more.
Garlic Lovers: Add minced garlic to the batter or sauce for an extra layer of flavor. This will give your dynamite shrimp a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sauce.

If you love shrimp like I do, you might also enjoy our Garlic Butter Shrimp for another irresistible seafood treat! This makes for a wonderful addition to your seafood repertoire, bringing more diversity to your dinner table.

Tempura Style: For a unique spin, dip shrimp in a light tempura batter instead of a traditional flour batter. This creates an airy, crispy texture that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

Play with these variations and see how they transform your dynamite shrimp into something uniquely yours!

How to Store and Freeze Dynamite Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover dynamite shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day to maintain its crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked battered shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat cooked shrimp in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crunch before serving. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Preparation Tip: It’s best to enjoy dynamite shrimp fresh, as the batter may become soggy over time. If you need to make them ahead, consider cooking them just before serving.

Expert Tips for Dynamite Shrimp

Pat Dry: Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before battering to prevent sogginess and enhance batter adherence.
Batch Frying: Avoid frying too many shrimp at once; overcrowding the pan can lower oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
Serve Immediately: To maintain their delightful crispiness, serve the fried shrimp right after coating them in the dynamite sauce.
Oil Selection: Choose a high smoke-point oil, like avocado oil, for frying to prevent burning and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Heat Adjustment: Feel free to modify the amount of Sriracha in the sauce according to your spice tolerance, making your dynamite shrimp perfect for all palates.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Dynamite Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy evenings! You can prepare the batter and cover the cleaned shrimp up to 24 hours in advance—simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, just dredge the shrimp in the prepared batter, fry them until golden brown, and toss them in the tangy dynamite sauce. For the sauce, you can also mix all the ingredients and refrigerate it for up to 3 days ahead, ensuring it’s just as flavorful when you’re ready to serve. This make-ahead strategy guarantees that you can enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality dynamite shrimp with minimal effort!

Dynamite Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select fresh shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for those that are peeled and deveined with a mild, ocean-like aroma. The shells should be shiny and translucent, with no dark spots or discoloration. Fresh shrimp should also feel firm to the touch. If you’re buying frozen, ensure they’re from a reputable source and that there are no signs of freezer burn.

What’s the best way to store leftover dynamite shrimp?
To keep your dynamite shrimp at their best, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. It’s essential to keep them separate from the sauce to prevent the batter from getting soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the shrimp in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that delightful crunch.

Can I freeze dynamite shrimp?
Yes! For freezing, I recommend preparing the battered shrimp but not frying them first. Lay the uncooked battered shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container where they will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time!

How can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
The more the merrier! To make the sauce milder, reduce the amount of Sriracha to one tablespoon or substitute it with sweet chili sauce. Conversely, for more heat, increase the Sriracha or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mix. You can taste as you go and stop whenever you reach your ideal heat level. It’s all about making it fit your taste!

What should I do if my batter isn’t sticking to the shrimp?
If you’re experiencing issues with the batter not sticking, it could be due to moisture on the shrimp. Make sure to pat the shrimp completely dry before battering. You might also try lightly dusting the shrimp with a touch of corn flour before dipping them into the batter. This can create a bit of extra grip for the batter. Don’t forget to mix your batter to a proper consistency—thick but still fluid enough to coat.

Are dynamite shrimp suitable for any dietary restrictions?
Great question! This dynamite shrimp recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, simply substitute corn flour for gluten-free flour or panko breadcrumbs. Additionally, you can replace the mayo with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version. Just be sure to check the labels for any potential allergens, especially if serving to guests with specific dietary restrictions.