Why You’ll Love This Crispy Orange Shrimp
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or main course.
- Crispy Perfection: The shrimp are fried to golden, crunchy perfection.
- Zesty and Sweet: The orange sauce has just the right balance of tangy citrus and sweet glaze.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes!
Tools You’ll Need
- Paper towels
- Mixing bowls
- Deep skillet or wok
- Whisk
- Tongs
Crispy Orange Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
There’s something undeniably satisfying about the crispiness of perfectly cooked shrimp paired with the tangy sweetness of orange sauce. Crispy Orange Shrimp is a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Serve it with rice, noodles, or veggies, and get ready to impress your taste buds!
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Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station: In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
Step 2: Bread the Shrimp
- Dip each shrimp in the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and back into the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Toss the fried shrimp in the orange sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with orange zest, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Notes
- Dry the Shrimp: Ensuring the shrimp are dry helps the coating stick better.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Fresh Juice is Key: Fresh orange juice gives the sauce a vibrant citrus flavor.
- Extra Crispiness: Double-dip in the flour mixture for an ultra-crispy coating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables for a complete dish.
- Enjoy as an appetizer with a side of extra orange sauce for dipping.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture; avoid microwaving to keep the shrimp crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
A: Yes! Arrange breaded shrimp on a baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Q3: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Thaw completely and pat dry before breading and frying.
Conclusion: Crispy, Sweet, and Tangy Perfection!
Crispy Orange Shrimp is a dish that never fails to impress. With its golden-crispy exterior and bold orange glaze, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Whip this up for a quick weeknight treat or your next dinner party, and watch it disappear in no time!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 290
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Enjoy this zesty delight and share your creations with us online—happy cooking!
