The moment you take that first bite of Dynamite Shrimp, you’re transported to a cozy coastal bistro where the air is filled with the tantalizing scent of fried goodness. The crispy tempura batter gives way to juicy shrimp, and with each crunch, you’ll feel the stress of the day melt away. I first experimented with this recipe during a weekend gathering when I wanted to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
With just a few simple ingredients and a splash of club soda, you can create this restaurant-quality dish right at home—perfect for casual nights in or impressing guests at your next dinner party. Paired with a creamy sriracha dipping sauce, these shrimp not only look stunning on the plate but will soon become a crowd favorite. So if you’re feeling bored with takeout or fast food, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings flavor, flair, and fun to your kitchen!
Why will you love Dynamite Shrimp?
Crispy, Crunchy Perfection: The tempura batter creates a light, airy coating that seals in the shrimp’s natural juiciness, delivering a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Quick to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish transforms into a culinary masterpiece in no time.
Flavor Fusion: The combination of creamy mayonnaise with zesty sriracha elevates the shrimp and offers an irresistible dipping experience.
Versatile Delight: Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself on a casual night in, these shrimp are guaranteed to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: The mouthwatering taste and stunning presentation make them a hit for both family and guests! If you love easy, delicious seafood, check out our other shrimp recipes for more ideas.
Dynamite Shrimp Ingredients
For the Tempura Batter
• 1 1/2 cups flour – This forms the base of your crispy coating.
• 3/4 cup cornstarch – Adds extra crunch to the batter, making it light and airy.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder – Ensures the batter puffs up beautifully when fried.
• 1 1/2 cups cold club soda – The secret to that perfect tempura texture; the cold helps create a crispy shell.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavor of the batter wonderfully.
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper – Adds a subtle warmth without overpowering.
For the Shrimp
• 1 pound shrimp – deveined and shells removed; large shrimp (21-25 count) are perfect for this dish.
For the Dipping Sauce
• 1 cup mayonnaise – Provides a creamy base for the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon sugar – Balances the heat of the sriracha.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha – Brings a spicy kick that elevates your Dynamite Shrimp experience!
For Frying
• Canola oil – Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point, ensuring a crisp finish.
How to Make Dynamite Shrimp
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, and white pepper until well blended. This creates the foundation for your crispy tempura batter.
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Mix with Club Soda: Gradually pour in the cold club soda while stirring gently. Aim for a smooth consistency without over-mixing; some lumps are okay. The carbonation is key for that light, airy batter.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or fryer, heat canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). A drop of batter should sizzle upon contact with the oil.
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Dip the Shrimp: Take your deveined shrimp and dip each into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated. This step is crucial for that perfect crunch—let any excess drip off before frying.
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Fry Until Golden: Carefully place the battered shrimp in the hot oil, without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
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Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil for a lighter bite.
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Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sugar, and sriracha. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level for the ultimate dipping experience.
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Serve and Enjoy: Present the crispy Dynamite Shrimp with the creamy dipping sauce alongside. Watch as they disappear in no time!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an added fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Dynamite Shrimp Variations
Feel free to personalize your cooking adventure with these fun and delicious twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a crisp, allergy-friendly experience.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for extra heat. Don’t be shy; a little spice can elevate the flavors dramatically!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the batter for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite. It’s a beautiful way to add freshness!
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Coconut Crunch: Coat the shrimp in shredded coconut after the tempura batter for a sweet tropical flair. This combination is a fun explosion of flavors and textures!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for zucchini or onion rings for a vegetarian tempura delight, perfect for those craving a veggie-centric dish.
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Sweet & Sour: Incorporate honey or maple syrup into the dipping sauce for a balanced sweet heat experience that complements the crispy shrimp.
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Asian-Style Sauce: Replace the mayonnaise with a soy sauce and sesame oil mixture for a completely different dipping experience. It’s savory and satisfying!
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Cheesy Delight: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the batter, enhancing the flavor profile with savory goodness. Cheesy tempura is a comforting indulgence!
Expert Tips for Dynamite Shrimp
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Use Cold Ingredients: Cold club soda creates a lighter batter; avoid letting it sit out for too long before mixing.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy rather than crispy Dynamite Shrimp.
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Watch the Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the shrimp; overcooking will lead to rubbery texture. Aim for golden brown perfection!
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Batter Consistency: A lumpy batter is okay! It helps achieve that irresistible crunch, just make sure not to over-mix when combining the ingredients.
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Perfect Dipping Sauce: Adjust the sriracha level in the dip based on your spice preference to enhance your shrimp experience without overwhelming it.
What to Serve with Dynamite Shrimp?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the crispy allure of this seafood favorite.
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Coconut Rice: A fragrant side that adds a hint of sweetness, balancing the spice of the shrimp beautifully.
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Asian Slaw: Crisp cabbage and colorful veggies tossed in a tangy dressing provide a crunchy contrast, brightening your plate.
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Garlic-Butter Noodles: These savory noodles absorb flavors and create a satisfying base, perfect for soaking up any leftover dipping sauce.
Imagine a vibrant spread that fills your table with color and flavor—these pairings complement the shrimp’s joyful crunch and zest.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tangy bite of pickles adds a refreshing pop, enhancing the overall taste experience with every bite.
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Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy, this salsa brings a tropical flair that wonderfully offsets the richness of the mayo-based dipping sauce.
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Chilled Beer or Sparkling Wine: For the perfect drink pairing, opt for a light beer or bubbly wine that enhances the shrimp’s flavor while refreshing your palate.
How to Store and Freeze Dynamite Shrimp
Fridge: Place leftover shrimp in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can result in soggy Dynamite Shrimp.
Preparing Ahead: Alternatively, prepare the batter and shrimp but fry them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy, ensuring that crispy texture you love!
Make Ahead Options
These Dynamite Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper) and storing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, just add the cold club soda to the mix and continue with the frying process. Additionally, you can devein and clean the shrimp up to 3 days ahead, keeping them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When it’s time to serve, simply heat the oil, dip the shrimp in the batter, and fry to golden perfection, resulting in restaurant-quality Dynamite Shrimp just as delicious as if they were made fresh!
Dynamite Shrimp with Tempura Batter Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp for my Dynamite Shrimp?
Absolutely! Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and uniform in size. Opt for 21-25 count shrimp, which means there are 21 to 25 shrimp per pound, perfect for a good bite-sized piece. If you see any dark spots or odors, it’s best to avoid those as they may indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Dynamite Shrimp?
For optimal freshness, store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before storing, let them cool completely to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
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Can I freeze Dynamite Shrimp? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your shrimp, first allow them to cool completely. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t touching, and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, and they can be stored for up to 2 months.
I find my batter is too thick; what should I do?
No worries! If your batter ends up too thick, add a little more cold club soda, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Just keep in mind that over-mixing can make it too dense, so add gradually.
Are there any dietary considerations for Dynamite Shrimp?
Very! If you’re serving this to guests, it’s best to check for allergies, especially to shellfish or ingredients like sriracha. For a gluten-free alternative, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and the cornstarch will help maintain the crispy texture.
How can I reheat leftover Dynamite Shrimp without losing crispiness?
The best way to restore crispness is to reheat your Dynamite Shrimp in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the shrimp on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.
Dynamite Shrimp with Crispy Tempura Batter You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, and white pepper until well blended.
- Gradually pour in the cold club soda while stirring gently until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- In a deep pot or fryer, heat canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
- Take your deveined shrimp and dip each into the batter, ensuring it's well coated.
- Carefully place the battered shrimp in the hot oil, frying for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sugar, and sriracha.
- Present the crispy Dynamite Shrimp with the creamy dipping sauce alongside.
