Craving a vibrant, flavourful dish that's quick to make and utterly delicious? Look no further than our recipe for Crispy Thai Herb Fried Shrimp! This isn't your average fried shrimp; we're taking things up a notch with a fragrant blend of fresh herbs and spices, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Imagine succulent, juicy shrimp encased in a perfectly crisp, golden-brown coating, bursting with the aromatic zest of Thai basil, cilantro, and a hint of fiery chili. It's the perfect appetizer, snack, or even a light main course.
This simple recipe delivers maximum flavour with minimal effort, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy notes creates a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Ready to learn how to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own crispy, herb-infused fried shrimp.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Mortar and Pestle
Ingredients
- White Shrimp
- Kaffir Lime Leaves
- Dried Chilies
- Lemongrass
- Garlic
- Green and Red Chili Peppers
- Light Soy Sauce
- Fish Sauce
- Ground Pepper
- Salt
- Sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Shrimp and Herb Mixture
- Marinate shrimp with a little fish sauce.
- Pound garlic, kaffir lime leaves, dried chilies, and lemongrass in a mortar.
- Fry the pounded herbs until fragrant.
- Set aside the fried shrimp and herbs.
Step 2. Fry the Shrimp to Crispy Perfection
- Fry the shrimp over high heat until crispy.
Step 3. Combine and Season
- In the same pan, add the fried shrimp and herbs. Season with sugar, salt, and ground pepper.
- Cook over low heat until sugar dissolves.
Step 4. Add Fresh Herbs and Finish
- Add fresh shallots, lemongrass, and chili peppers.
- Stir until well combined.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Don't marinate the shrimp for too long, just mix it.
- Use high heat when frying the shrimp to make it crispy and fragrant.
- Don't overcook the herbs, or they will burn.
- Use low heat when seasoning the shrimp to prevent burning.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before tossing in the herb mixture. This helps them crisp up nicely.
2. What if I don't have all the herbs listed?
Feel free to substitute! Cilantro and basil are key for the Thai flavor, but you can add other fresh herbs like mint or chives. Adjust to your preference.
3. How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy?
Ensure the shrimp are completely dry before frying and don't overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches to maintain a high oil temperature for optimal crispiness.
This Crispy Thai Herb Fried Shrimp recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors in every bite. From appetizer to main course, its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to impress your family and friends with this easy yet extraordinary dish!