There’s a certain joy that comes from creating a dish that wows friends and family, and my Crispy Orange Shrimp has mastered that art! With its golden, crunchy coating that gives way to succulent shrimp and a sweet and spicy orange sauce, this recipe is everything you could want in a quick meal. I stumbled upon this delightful combination during a whirlwind weeknight dinner rush, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen.
Imagine serving up this enticing dish at your next gathering—friends marveling at how something so fancy can be ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you decide to make this as a dazzling appetizer or a satisfying main course, it never fails to impress! The medley of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience that might just transport you to a bustling street market in Asia. Let me walk you through creating this showstopper that’s sure to break you free from the cycle of takeout—your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Crispy Orange Shrimp a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Finest: In just 30 minutes, you can create a gourmet dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy orange sauce perfectly complements the crispy shrimp, making every bite a delight.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side, or main course—this recipe adapts to any meal plan.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests at dinner parties or family gatherings; this dish is sure to be a hit!
Quick Weeknight Solution: Packing tons of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen, it’s the ideal solution for busy evenings.
Transform your weekly meals with this succulent recipe and say goodbye to fast food boredom!
Crispy Orange Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Medium to large shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for quick cooking.
• Cornstarch – This is key for achieving that crunchy, crispy texture.
• Canola oil – A neutral oil perfect for frying; sesame oil adds a nice twist.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – Fresh garlic gives an aromatic base that’s irresistible.
• Soy sauce – Adds depth and umami, or try low-sodium for a healthier option.
• Honey – Offers balanced sweetness; maple syrup can be used as a substitute.
• Orange zest – For an invigorating citrus aroma in your sauce.
• Orange juice – Use fresh, no sugar added for the best flavor.
• Mirin – Adds a hint of sweetness; dry sherry works as an alternative.
• Red pepper flakes – Adjust the amount for desired spiciness in your sauce.
For Garnishing
• Green onions – A refreshing crunch to finish off your dish.
• Sesame seeds – Adds a classic touch and slight crunch as a final flourish.
Embark on this sweet and spicy adventure with these Crispy Orange Shrimp ingredients for a dish that delights!
How to Make Crispy Orange Shrimp
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Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, orange juice, orange zest, honey, mirin, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes until well combined and smooth. This fragrant sauce brings a gorgeous flavor profile to your shrimp.
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Coat the Shrimp: Pat your peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels for an extra crispy finish. Toss them gently in cornstarch until evenly coated, ensuring that every piece is covered without clumps.
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Heat Oil: In a large skillet, pour enough canola oil to cover the bottom and heat it over medium-high until shimmering, which takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 375°F) for the crispiest shrimp.
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Fry Shrimp: Working in small batches, fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this may lead to steaming instead of frying.
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Combine With Sauce: Once the shrimp are perfectly crispy, drain any excess oil from the pan. Add the prepared sauce and return the shrimp, tossing gently to coat everything in that delightful mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Serve: Remove from the heat and garnish generously with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!
Optional: Pair with rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Orange Shrimp?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these fantastic pairings that complement the flavors of this dish.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the sweet and spicy orange sauce, creating a harmonious balance in every bite.
- Sesame Noodles: These noodles, tossed in a tangy sesame dressing, add a delightful chewiness that pairs well with the crisp shrimp while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas not only adds crunch but also brings a fresh contrast to the richness of the shrimp and sauce.
- Crisp Cucumber Salad: The coolness of a cucumber salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, flavorful shrimp, brightening the entire meal.
- Miso Soup: This warm, umami-rich soup preps your palate, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience while echoing the Asian flavors in the main dish.
- Chilled Sake or White Wine: A glass of chilled sake enhances the meal beautifully. Alternatively, a crisp white wine complements the dish’s sweet and spicy tones, making for a sophisticated touch.
- Mango Sorbet: For dessert, think of mango sorbet—a refreshing, fruity finale that mirrors the citrus notes of the shrimp, providing a perfect sweet conclusion to your meal.
Expert Tips for Crispy Orange Shrimp
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Batch Frying: Always fry shrimp in small batches to maintain their crispiness; overcrowding the pan leads to steaming instead of frying.
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Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot (around 375°F) before adding shrimp for that perfect golden crunch and crisp texture.
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Drying Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels before coating with cornstarch; any moisture can prevent that coveted crispy finish.
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Sauce Consistency: Don’t rush the sauce thickening; let it reduce properly with the shrimp to ensure a clingy, flavorful coating.
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Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste; adding more can spice up your crispy orange shrimp experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Orange Shrimp are a perfect choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk the garlic, orange juice, orange zest, honey, mirin, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes together and refrigerate it tightly sealed. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch and refrigerate them in a single layer on a baking sheet for up to 3 hours before cooking to keep them crispy. When you’re ready to serve, heat the oil and fry the shrimp until golden and crispy. Then, combine them with the prepped sauce for a quick, delicious meal with minimal effort—just like a restaurant-quality dish at home!
Crispy Orange Shrimp Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful dish to suit your palate!
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Sweetness Balance: Reduce the amount of honey for a less sweet, more savory flavor profile.
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Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a hearty variation that caters to different dietary preferences. It’s a great way to enjoy the sauce with various proteins.
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Heat Level Boost: Add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery kick or a splash of your favorite chili sauce directly into the mix. Your guests will love the surprise of added heat!
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Citrus Twist: Experiment with lime or grapefruit juice and zest instead of orange for a refreshing change in flavor. The bright acidity will elevate your shrimp in a whole new way.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for an aromatic touch that brings freshness to the rich sauce. A sprinkle of herbs can bring a whole new personality to the dish!
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Crunchy Addition: Include finely chopped nuts, like cashews or peanuts, just before serving for an extra layer of texture and flavor. The crunch elevates each bite.
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Whole30-Friendly: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option, making this dish compliant with Whole30 diets.
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Veggie Companion: Serve with stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to enhance the meal’s nutritional profile, creating a delightful and colorful plate that everyone will enjoy.
Embrace these variations and make this Crispy Orange Shrimp recipe your own, infusing it with flavors that will make your heart sing!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Orange Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover crispy orange shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp before tossing in sauce. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Sauce Storage: Keep any extra sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to a week; it can be easily reheated and used to revive leftovers or fresh shrimp.
Crispy Orange Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the Crispy Orange Shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best results, use medium to large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. This allows for quicker cooking and ensures that each shrimp gets that deliciously crisp texture.
How should I store leftover Crispy Orange Shrimp?
To maintain its delightful flavor and texture, store any leftover crispy orange shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy.
Can I freeze Crispy Orange Shrimp?
Yes, you can! For the best results, freeze the shrimp before tossing them in the sauce. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and fry again or cook in your sauce.
What should I do if my shrimp are not crispy?
If your shrimp aren’t crispy, it might be due to overcrowding the pan while frying or having damp shrimp before coating them in cornstarch. Always fry shrimp in small batches and make sure to pat them dry with paper towels before coating. This little step makes a big difference in achieving that perfect crunch!
Is Crispy Orange Shrimp suitable for people with allergies?
It’s best to check the specific ingredients used. This recipe contains shrimp and soy sauce, which can be allergens for some. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always ensure your guests are informed, and explore substitute options like chicken or tofu if shrimp is not viable for some.
How can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
If you prefer more heat in your crispy orange shrimp, simply add extra red pepper flakes directly to the sauce. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired spice level. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor!
Crispy Orange Shrimp: Quick, Sweet & Spicy Delight at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, orange juice, orange zest, honey, mirin, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes until well combined and smooth.
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and toss in cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (approximately 3-5 minutes).
- Fry shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain excess oil, add the sauce to the pan, and toss shrimp to coat for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.