Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these mind-blowing Crispy Cilantro Chili Shrimp! Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to succulent, tender shrimp bursting with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. This recipe is so irresistible, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds before they've even finished their first bite. Whether you're a seafood lover, a spice enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a quick and delicious meal, these shrimp are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, and oil for frying.
- In a medium-sized bowl, crack the egg and whisk it until well beaten. This will be used to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the shrimp.
- In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Mix well to ensure the cilantro and chili powder are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.
- Take each shrimp and dip it first into the beaten egg, making sure it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
- Next, roll the egg-coated shrimp in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the shrimp. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate.
- In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, approximately 1/4 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers but is not smoking.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated shrimp in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
- Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them gently to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the crispy cilantro chili shrimp hot, garnished with additional chopped cilantro if desired. They pair well with a side of lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your oil is at the right heat (around 350°F) for perfect crispiness. Too cool, and your shrimp will be greasy; too hot, and they'll burn.
- Pat Shrimp Dry: Before coating, thoroughly pat your shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the egg and breadcrumbs adhere better and creates a crispier coating.
- Don't Overcrowd: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure each shrimp gets perfectly crispy and golden.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh cilantro and high-quality chili powder for the most vibrant flavor.
- Serve Immediately: These shrimp are best enjoyed hot and crispy right out of the pan. If you need to hold them, keep them in a warm oven to maintain their crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
