Firecracker Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe

If you love the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and slightly sweet, then you are in for a treat with this Firecracker Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe. These little bites pack a punch with succulent shrimp wrapped in delicate spring roll wrappers, fried to golden perfection, and bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving an exciting appetizer, this dish is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and a total crowd pleaser that’s sure to become your new favorite snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this recipe, and luckily, it uses simple, kitchen-friendly staples that work in harmony to build the dish’s irresistible taste and texture. Each has a role, from the savory seasoning that hugs the shrimp to the crispy spring roll wrapper that delivers crunch.

• 18-20 Large Shrimp: Fresh or raw prawns with tails on for easy rolling and a juicy bite.
• 10 Spring Roll Wrappers (215mm x 215mm): Thin and delicate, creating that perfect crispy blanket around the shrimp.
• 1 tsp Salt: Essential for enhancing the shrimp’s natural flavor.
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil: Adds a subtle nutty aroma and richness.
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper (or White Pepper): Provides a gentle heat to balance the sweetness of shrimp.
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder (or Grated Garlic): Infuses savory depth for a mouthwatering aroma.
• ½ tbsp Plain Flour mixed with 2 tbsp Water: Acts as a sticky glue to seal the spring roll wrapper perfectly.
• Oil for Frying (high smoke point neutral oil): Needed for getting that golden, crunchy texture without overpowering the delicate flavors.

How to Make Firecracker Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp, but leave the tails on so they’re easier to handle and look adorable once cooked. Pat each shrimp dry with paper towels — this helps achieve that crispy finish. Then, create a few small slits along the underside to straighten the shrimp, making them easier to roll and more visually appealing.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Place your prepped shrimp in a mixing bowl and season with salt, your choice of black or white pepper, garlic powder, and a splash of sesame oil. Mix everything gently so the shrimp are coated in these wonderful flavors. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes. This step is key as it lets the spices soak in, ensuring every bite is packed full of taste.

Step 3: Wrap and Seal

Now for the fun part — wrapping! Prepare your flour glue by mixing plain flour with water until it forms a thick but spreadable paste. Cut your spring roll wrappers into triangles or halves depending on your preferred size. Place a shrimp near the short edge of the wrapper, with the tail sticking out for that classic “in a blanket” look. Roll the wrapper tightly around the shrimp and seal the end with your flour glue. This keeps everything snug and prevents any oil from seeping in during frying.

Step 4: Deep Fry Until Crispy

Heat your neutral oil in a deep pan or fryer until it reaches 175-180°C (350°F). Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy wrappers. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the spring roll wrapper turns a beautiful golden brown with a crispy texture. Once done, transfer to paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil and keep crispiness intact.

How to Serve Firecracker Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped spring onions adds a lovely visual element and a burst of fresh flavor. You can also provide a side of tangy dipping sauce like sweet chili or a cool garlic aioli that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp inside their crispy blanket.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a zingy vinaigrette. For something heartier, steamed jasmine rice or a bowl of miso soup balances the heat and adds comforting texture to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning appetizer platter, arrange the shrimp wrapped in spring roll wrappers on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves and drizzle with a thin line of sriracha mayo. For a party, consider serving them in mini bamboo steamers or small individual plates with colorful edible flowers to add that wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover Firecracker Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep them crispy, avoid stacking them too tightly. Let them cool completely before storing, which helps prevent sogginess.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the wrapped but uncooked shrimp on a tray lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. This makes it super convenient to fry a fresh batch anytime you crave that delicious crunch.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid microwaving as it can make the wrappers soggy. Instead, bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. This method maintains the integrity of that crispy outer shell beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before using. Excess moisture can make the wrappers soggy and difficult to fry crisp.

Is there a way to bake instead of deep frying?

Yes, although deep frying gives the best crunch, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) on a parchment-lined tray for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until golden. Brush the wrappers lightly with oil to help with crispiness.

Can I make the flour glue ahead of time?

You can mix the flour and water glue in advance and store it covered at room temperature for a few hours. If it thickens too much, just add a bit more water and stir before using.

What dipping sauces work best with Firecracker Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe?

Sweet chili sauce, spicy mayo, garlic aioli, and even a tangy tamarind dip are excellent choices. Choose one that suits your preferred heat level and flavor profile.

How do I keep the shrimp from curling up too much when cooking?

Making those small slits along the underside before seasoning and wrapping helps the shrimp lay flat and roll easily. This technique keeps the shrimp looking neat and elegant inside its crispy blanket.

Final Thoughts

This Firecracker Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe is one of those dishes that combines simplicity and excitement in every bite. It’s perfect for impressing guests, satisfying snack cravings, or spicing up your appetizer rotation. I encourage you to give it a try — once you have that crispy, flavorful shrimp in your hands, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

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