Crispy Original Shrimp Crackers
Crispy Original Shrimp Crackers
Super Easy Homemade Dried Shrimp Crackers Recipe (Healthy & Savory Snack)
Introducing the ‘Original Shrimp Crackers’ recipe, made to highlight the deep, savory flavor of domestic dried shrimp. The coating is kept minimal, allowing you to fully savor the shrimp’s natural taste and nutrition. Rich in calcium, these crackers are perfect as a healthy snack for kids and an exquisite accompaniment to a cold beer for adults. Enjoy them at home, tastier and healthier than store-bought snacks!
Main Ingredients- 2 handfuls of domestic dried shrimp (approx. 1-2 cm length)
- 1-1.5 Tbsp pancake mix (just enough to lightly coat the shrimp)
- 2 cups olive oil (for frying)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the clean, domestic dried shrimp. The shrimp in the photo are about one finger-joint long, but using slightly larger ones will result in a richer texture.
Step 2
Do not soak the dried shrimp in water for a long time. Lightly rinse them under running water to remove any dust or debris. This helps preserve the shrimp’s natural umami flavor.
Step 3
After rinsing, drain the shrimp thoroughly in a colander. Leaving just a slight hint of moisture on the surface will prevent oil splattering during frying and ensure maximum crispiness.
Step 4
Sprinkle 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of pancake mix evenly over the drained dried shrimp, making sure it doesn’t clump. The key is to use just enough mix to prevent the shrimp from sticking together, creating a very thin coating.
Step 5
Gently toss the shrimp with a fork or chopsticks to coat them lightly and prevent clumping. The crucial point here is to mix them carefully so the pancake mix doesn’t adhere too thickly and the shrimp’s original shape remains visible.
Step 6
This is what a properly coated shrimp should look like. The shrimp’s color should subtly show through the thin layer of pancake mix. If the coating is too thick, you’ll taste more flour than shrimp, and if it’s too thin, it won’t fry properly. Achieving this perfect balance is key!
Step 7
Use olive oil for frying. Nowadays, there are high-heat olive oils safe for home use. A deep, narrow pot or pan is recommended to conserve oil. Add enough oil to mostly submerge the shrimp and preheat over medium-low heat. Adjust the oil quantity based on the amount of shrimp.
Step 8
To check the oil temperature, drop in one or two shrimp. They should sizzle and float to the surface immediately. Never fry over high heat. Once the oil is adequately heated, reduce the flame to low.
Step 9
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the low-heat oil. They will begin to fry with a satisfying sizzle. Frying time is very short, typically 20-30 seconds. While frying, gently stir the shrimp with a fork or chopsticks to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 10
The shrimp will initially turn white and then gradually become golden brown. To achieve perfect crispiness, remove them before they turn too dark brown. The residual heat will continue to cook them after removal, so quick timing is essential.
Step 11
After being removed from the oil, the shrimp will continue to darken slightly and become even crispier. Some recipes suggest double-frying, but for these small dried shrimp, a single fry is perfectly sufficient for a delightful crunch.
Step 12
If they achieve this golden-brown color and retain their shape, you’ve succeeded! The appetizing color and plump shrimp are a sign of perfectly made shrimp crackers.
Step 13
Place the fried shrimp crackers on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Then, lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Using seasoned salt can simplify the seasoning process.
Step 14
And there you have it – homemade ‘Original Shrimp Crackers’ that rival any store-bought snack! Their savory taste and perfect crunch make them an ideal treat for kids or a fantastic appetizer to pair with a cold beer. Enjoy them with your family!
Step 15
The key to this recipe is using the absolute minimum amount of pancake mix. This allows the deep, natural flavor of the shrimp to shine through and ensures they absorb less oil, making them a healthier choice. You won’t be able to stop at just one bite of this incredible savory goodness!
Step 16
Looking at these delicious shrimp crackers makes me crave a cold beer. They’ll be the perfect snack for the upcoming summer season!
Step 17
Everyone, try making these super easy shrimp crackers today! You’ll be absolutely smitten after just one taste.
