Chili Crisp Shrimp

If you’re craving a dish that’s both bold and full of flavor, Chili Crisp Shrimp is the perfect recipe to try. This dish features plump shrimp, seared to perfection, and coated in a crispy, spicy, and savory chili crisp sauce that packs a serious punch. The chili crisp adds a fiery heat with a touch of umami, while the shrimp stay juicy and tender. It’s an explosion of flavor in every bite—perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Chili Crisp Shrimp

This dish isn’t just about the heat; it’s about creating a bold, unforgettable flavor profile. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

Spicy and Savory: The chili crisp sauce adds layers of heat, garlic, and a bit of crunch, creating a flavor profile that’s both fiery and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: You don’t need hours of prep for this one. It’s ready in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something fast but exciting.

Customizable Heat: If you’re not into super spicy food, you can adjust the chili crisp sauce to your preferred heat level. It’s easy to make it milder or hotter, depending on your taste.

Juicy Shrimp: The shrimp remain tender and juicy, perfectly balanced with the crispy sauce. The contrast in textures makes each bite a delightful experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or serving it as part of a bigger meal, Chili Crisp Shrimp is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients in Chili Crisp Shrimp

Here’s what you’ll need to make this zesty, savory shrimp dish:

• Shrimp: The star of the show. Make sure to use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture.
• Chili Crisp Sauce: This is the game-changer. It’s spicy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. You can find it at most Asian markets or online.
• Garlic: Adds a savory depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the chili crisp.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger brings a hint of warmth and brightness that cuts through the spiciness.
• Soy Sauce: For a salty, umami boost that ties everything together.
• Olive Oil or Sesame Oil: For cooking the shrimp and adding a bit of richness.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a zesty kick to balance out the heat.
• Scallions (optional): For garnish, adding color and freshness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make this incredibly flavorful shrimp dish:

1. Prep the Shrimp: If you haven’t already, peel and devein your shrimp. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect sear.

2. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive or sesame oil. Let it heat up for a minute.

3. Sear the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly crispy. Flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and then sauté the garlic and ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chili crisp sauce and soy sauce to the pan, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Coat the Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss them in the chili crisp sauce, making sure they’re coated evenly.

6. Finish with Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp and give it one last toss.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with scallions if desired. It’s perfect as an appetizer, served over rice, or paired with veggies.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250

(Note: these values may vary depending on your ingredients.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve Chili Crisp Shrimp

This flavorful shrimp dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• With Rice: Serve the shrimp over steamed white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the shrimp in lettuce cups for a fresh, crunchy bite.
• With Veggies: Pair with sautéed greens like spinach or bok choy for a simple and healthy side dish.
• On a Salad: Toss the shrimp over a fresh green salad for a spicy, satisfying twist.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• For an extra crunchy texture, you can add a bit of toasted sesame seeds to the chili crisp sauce.
• If you like more heat, feel free to add extra chili flakes or more chili crisp sauce to the pan.
• For a unique flavor, try adding a splash of rice vinegar to the sauce for a tangy twist.
• If you don’t have chili crisp sauce, you can substitute with another spicy chili sauce or even sriracha, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.

FAQ’s

1. What is chili crisp sauce?
Chili crisp sauce is a spicy condiment made from chili oil, fried garlic, and other savory ingredients. It’s known for its crunchy texture and deep umami flavor.

2. Can I make chili crisp shrimp with frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work fine! Just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before cooking.

3. Can I use other types of seafood?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with scallops, squid, or even fish fillets. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

4. How spicy is this dish?
It can be quite spicy, depending on how much chili crisp sauce you use. If you prefer less heat, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
For the best results, it’s recommended to make this dish fresh, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.

6. What kind of oil should I use to cook the shrimp?
Sesame oil is great for added flavor, but olive oil works just as well if that’s what you have on hand.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! You can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra texture and flavor.

8. What can I serve with chili crisp shrimp?
It pairs well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it as an appetizer with some crispy wonton chips.

9. Can I use chili oil instead of chili crisp sauce?
Yes, you can use chili oil, but the texture and flavor will be a bit different. Chili crisp sauce has a crunchy element that adds depth.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Conclusion

Chili Crisp Shrimp is an unforgettable dish that combines bold flavors, a satisfying crunch, and juicy shrimp. The chili crisp sauce brings the perfect amount of heat and umami, making this an addictive meal you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re serving it over rice, in wraps, or on a salad, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Enjoy the fiery, crispy, savory goodness!

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