Craving that sweet, spicy, and addictive Panda Express Firecracker Shrimp but don't want to leave the house? This homemade recipe delivers the same explosive flavor in a fraction of the time and cost! It's a perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a delicious dish that's sure to impress. Get ready to experience the fiery goodness of this easy recipe, perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. This is one of the best recipes you'll find for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Firecracker Sauce:
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the shrimp and toss until evenly coated.
Step 2: Make the Firecracker Sauce
While the shrimp is coating, whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – add more honey for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or red pepper flakes for extra heat. This is your chance to customize the perfect flavor profile!
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot (a drop of water should sizzle immediately), carefully add the shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Add the fried shrimp to the prepared firecracker sauce and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer with extra sesame seeds for garnish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Firecracker Shrimp:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy shrimp. Fry in batches for best results.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will give the sauce a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook until they turn pink and opaque.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Include your favorite vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last few minutes of frying.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cornstarch and flour blend for the coating.
- Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using 1/5 of the recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy, healthy, and delicious Panda Express Firecracker Shrimp recipe is sure to become a quick dinner favorite. Enjoy!