Crispy Orange Shrimp

This crispy Orange Shrimp is a delicious and quick meal that brings together succulent shrimp in a sweet, sticky orange sauce with a delightful hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish will impress family and friends alike. With its vibrant flavors and appealing crunch, it stands out as a favorite among seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of sweet honey and citrusy orange creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or appetizer, paired with rice or vegetables.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings and parties; everyone will want seconds!
• Simple Ingredients: Uses accessible ingredients that you likely have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your crispy Orange Shrimp, gather the necessary tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Plate for draining shrimp

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Ensures even cooking and allows for multiple batches of shrimp without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for preparing sauces and coating shrimp evenly with cornstarch.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Makes it easier to handle hot shrimp while keeping your hands safe.

Ingredients

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 mirim
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Garnishes

• 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. This creates a flavorful base that will coat your shrimp beautifully.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Next, pat dry the shrimp using paper towels. Add them to a large bowl along with the cornstarch. Toss well to coat each piece evenly.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat the canola oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. You want about 1 inch of oil covering the bottom of the pan for optimal frying.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

In batches, fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked, drain the shrimp onto a plate. Remember not to use paper towels; this prevents sogginess.

Step 6: Combine with Sauce

After frying all the shrimp, drain excess oil from the pan. Stir your prepared sauce again and pour it into the hot pan.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Heat the sauce for about one to two minutes before adding back in your fried shrimp.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Gently toss everything together until well-coated in sauce. Cook for another minute or two until it thickens slightly. Serve immediately as an appetizer or alongside rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this crispy Orange Shrimp that’s sure to be a hit at any meal!

How to Serve Crispy Orange Shrimp

Crispy Orange Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it as an appetizer or make it the star of your main course, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with toothpicks for easy eating at parties or gatherings.
• Pair with a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.

Over Rice

• Spoon over a bed of fluffy jasmine or brown rice to soak up the sticky orange sauce.
• Consider adding steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.

In Tacos

• Use small corn tortillas and fill them with crispy shrimp, fresh avocado slices, and shredded cabbage.
• Drizzle with extra orange sauce for a tangy twist.

Salad Topping

• Add crispy shrimp to a mixed green salad for a protein-packed lunch.
• Toss in mandarin oranges and sesame dressing to complement the flavors.

How to Perfect Crispy Orange Shrimp

Perfecting your Crispy Orange Shrimp is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp offers better flavor and texture than frozen varieties. Look for shrimp that smell sweet, not fishy.
• Pat dry properly: Make sure your shrimp are completely dry before coating them in cornstarch. This helps achieve maximum crispiness.
• Heat oil adequately: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents the shrimp from absorbing too much oil and becoming soggy.
• Fry in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. This allows each shrimp to cook evenly and become perfectly crisp.
• Toss gently: When combining the shrimp with the sauce, toss gently to avoid breaking the crispy coating.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Orange Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Crispy Orange Shrimp enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds color and crunch. Steam until tender but still vibrant green.

2. Fried Rice: Flavored rice cooked with vegetables and soy sauce makes a hearty companion. Try adding peas, carrots, and green onions for extra flavor.

3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds balances the sweetness of the orange sauce.

4. Quinoa Pilaf: This healthy grain dish can be flavored with herbs and spices, providing a nutty contrast to the sweet shrimp.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and sweetness that pairs well with the dish.

6. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies enhance the Asian-inspired theme while offering a crunchy texture.

7. Noodle Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked noodles tossed in soy sauce and vegetables create a satisfying base for your shrimp.

8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides umami richness that complements the sweet notes of the orange shrimp beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes will help you create the perfect Crispy Orange Shrimp. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the drying step: Wet shrimp won’t crisp up properly. Always pat your shrimp dry with paper towels before coating them in cornstarch.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many shrimp at once lowers the oil temperature and leads to soggy results. Fry in small batches to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Using low-quality oil: The type of oil matters; choose canola or another high smoke point oil for frying. It ensures better flavor and a crispy texture.
• Neglecting to stir the sauce: If sauce ingredients settle, they won’t coat the shrimp evenly. Stir well before adding it to the pan to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Not adjusting spice levels: The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes for heat, but you can adjust this according to your preference. Make sure to taste test!
• Serving immediately: Letting the shrimp sit too long can make them lose their crunch. Serve immediately for optimal texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• • Location: Keep it in the fridge’s main compartment, not in the door.

Freezing Crispy Orange Shrimp

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• • Preparation: For best results, freeze without sauce; add sauce after reheating.

Reheating Crispy Orange Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that it may become soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Crispy Orange Shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup is a great alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile while maintaining sweetness.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

To increase the heat in your orange sauce, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.

Can I customize my Crispy Orange Shrimp?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers while cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

What sides pair well with Crispy Orange Shrimp?

Serve this dish with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to balance out the flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Orange Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding your favorite vegetables. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try today!