Name: Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Tempura with Spicy Sriracha Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup cold beer or carbonated water (sparkling water can be used); medium to large shrimp (for best texture and flavor); canola or vegetable oil (for frying); 0.5 cup mayonnaise (low-fat options can be used); 2-3 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to spice preference); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon brown or white sugar (honey can be used); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; scallions (for garnish)

The air crackles with excitement as I toss the first batch of shrimp into the hot oil, golden and bubbly. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of creating my own version of Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Tempura with Spicy Sriracha Aioli at home. This appetizer is not just a feast for the eyes; it brings together the crunch of perfectly fried shrimp and a creamy, fiery sauce that makes taste buds tingle. The best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to whip up and keeps your dinner guests talking long after the last bite. Enjoy it as part of a special meal or simply as an indulgent snack; either way, you’ll want to make sure you have some extra sriracha aioli on hand. Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Let’s dive into this tantalizing recipe!

Why is this shrimp recipe irresistible?

Crispy Delight: The tempura batter creates an ultra-crispy texture that perfectly contrasts the juicy shrimp inside.
Fiery & Creamy: The spicy sriracha aioli offers a unique fusion of heat and creaminess, elevating the flavor profile to restaurant-quality.
Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this crowd-pleaser on the table in no time—perfect for impromptu gatherings!
Versatile Pairing: Serve it as an appetizer or a fun snack, and adjust the spice level to suit your guests’ preferences.
Fresh & Flavorful: Each bite bursts with freshness, as garnished scallions provide a lovely crunch alongside the rich sauce.
If you enjoy dazzling appetizers, consider pairing this with Spicy Shrimp Tacos or serve it with a side of Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp for even more flavor at your next gathering!

Dynamite Shrimp Tempura Ingredients

For the Batter

Shrimp – Use medium to large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Flour – All-purpose flour adds structure and crispness; gluten-free flour works well too!
Corn Starch – Enhances the batter’s crispiness, making your shrimp tempura even more delightful.
Baking Powder – Aids in creating that light, tempura-like texture that makes each bite light as air.
Cold Beer/Carbonated Water – Gives the batter an airy quality; sparkling water is a good substitute for crispiness!

For Frying

Oil for Frying – Choose canola or vegetable oil for the best frying results; make sure it’s hot enough for perfect tempura!

For the Sriracha Aioli

Mayonnaise – Serves as the base for the aioli; low-fat options can work without sacrificing flavor.
Sriracha Sauce – Adds delicious heat to the mayo; adjust to your spice preference for the perfect sriracha aioli.
Lemon Juice – Brightens up the sauce, balancing the richness with acidity.
Brown or White Sugar – Balances the spiciness of the aioli; honey can be a sweet alternative.
Garlic Powder – Infuses depth and a savory note into the aioli, amplifying its overall flavor.

For Garnish

Scallions – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor to complement the crispy shrimp; don’t forget to sprinkle them generously!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Tempura with Spicy Sriracha Aioli

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating your oil in a deep skillet or fryer to a temperature of 350–375°F (175–190°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. This high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture in your Dynamite Shrimp Tempura. As the oil heats, keep an eye on it to avoid overheating.

Step 2: Prepare the Aioli
In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2-3 tablespoons of sriracha, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Whisk all the ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring it’s well blended. Set this spicy sriracha aioli aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat your medium to large shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can hinder crisping. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper for added flavor. For presentation, slice each shrimp in half lengthwise, ensuring they’re evenly cooked and crispy when fried.

Step 4: Make the Tempura Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Slowly pour in 1 cup of cold beer or carbonated water while mixing gently. Aim for a smooth, slightly lumpy batter to achieve that lovely light texture in your Briyani Shrimp Tempura.

Step 5: Coat the Shrimp
Dip each piece of seasoned shrimp into the tempura batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Ensure that the shrimp are evenly coated as a thick layer may result in a soggy texture rather than the desired crunch. This even coating is essential for that perfect crispy finish when frying.

Step 6: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully lower the battered shrimp into the hot oil in small batches. Fry each batch for about 1-2 minutes, or until they turn light golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C). It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and affect the crispiness.

Step 7: Drain and Garnish
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil, allowing excess oil to drain back into the pan. Place the shrimp on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining oil. For an added burst of freshness and color, generously garnish your crispy Dynamite Shrimp Tempura with chopped scallions.

Step 8: Serve Immediately
Present your appetizing Dynamite Shrimp Tempura drizzled with the spicy sriracha aioli for a beautiful contrast. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful dish straight away to capture the maximum crunch and flavor. Your guests will relish this delicious appetizer that packs a punch!

What to Serve with Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Tempura?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these crispy, delectable bites with delicious sides that enhance their flavorful punch.

Crispy Wonton Chips: Perfect for scooping, these light and crunchy chips add a delightful texture to your appetizer spread. Serve them with extra sriracha aioli for dipping!
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A cool and zesty cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame adds a refreshing element that contrasts beautifully with the shrimp’s heat.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful, stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add a satisfying crunch and nutritious balance to your meal.
Classic Japanese Rice: Steamed white rice or a flavorful fried rice can provide a soothing base to absorb the saucy goodness of the shrimp and aioli.
Lemon Garlic Asparagus: Tender asparagus with a squeeze of lemon and a hint of garlic adds a bright, earthy flavor, making each bite of shrimp even more delightful.
Cold Sapporo Beer: An ice-cold Sapporo perfectly complements the spicy shrimp, enhancing the overall experience with its crisp, refreshing taste.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, indulge in a sweet and creamy mango sticky rice. Its luscious sweetness balances the spicy notes from the shrimp, leaving you satisfied.

Dynamite Shrimp Tempura Variations

Customize your Dynamite Shrimp Tempura and discover delightful twists that will elevate your dish to new heights!

Heat Adjustment: For less heat, reduce the sriracha in the aioli or switch to a mild hot sauce.
With a few easy tweaks, you can cater to sensitive taste buds while still enjoying the creamy texture of the aioli.
Garlic Aioli: Substitute the sriracha aioli with a roasted garlic aioli for a savory twist.
This variation offers a more mellow flavor while still keeping it rich and creamy—perfect for garlic lovers!
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Replace the spicy aioli with a sweet chili sauce for a unique flavor profile.
This adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the crispy shrimp, catering to those who prefer a sweeter touch.
Lemon Zest: Brighten up your aioli by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest.
This addition brings a refreshing zing that will complement the richness of the sauce and create a more vibrant taste experience.
Coconut Tempura: Toss in some shredded coconut with the batter for a tropical twist.
The added texture will provide a delicious crunch that pairs surprisingly well with the shrimp and the spicy aioli.
Panko Crust: Substitute half of the flour with panko breadcrumbs to achieve an even crunchier texture.
This twist makes your shrimp extra crispy, providing a satisfying contrast to the tender shrimp inside.
Herb-Infused Aioli: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the aioli for an aromatic touch.
These herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color that makes your dish visually appealing.

If you love spiciness but want something with a different flavor angle, consider trying these shrimp variations: Gochujang Shrimp Tacos or the classic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp for a flavorful alternative!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Dynamite Shrimp Tempura are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the spicy sriracha aioli up to 3 days in advance by mixing the mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, sugar, and garlic powder, then refrigerating it to keep it fresh and flavorful. The shrimp can be prepped by cleaning, seasoning, and slicing them up to 24 hours ahead; simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to cook, whip up the tempura batter fresh, coat the shrimp, and fry them for that signature crunch—resulting in an appetizer that’s just as delicious as if you made it all at once!

How to Store and Freeze Dynamite Shrimp Tempura

Fridge: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain some crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place frozen shrimp directly in a preheated air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy, about 8-10 minutes.

Avoid Sogginess: If storing the sriracha aioli separately, keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week, and avoid drizzling until just before serving to maintain the crispy texture of the Dynamite Shrimp Tempura.

Expert Tips for Dynamite Shrimp Tempura

Cold Batter Is Key: Ensure your batter is cold; this creates a crispier texture when frying the shrimp and enhances the tempura experience.

Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, preventing greasy shrimp and ensuring even cooking.

Coat Right Before Serving: Only drizzle the sriracha aioli over the shrimp just before serving. This keeps the coating fresh and crunchy, preventing sogginess.

Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature. Too hot can burn the batter, while too cool can lead to greasy shrimp.

Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the Dynamite Shrimp Tempura immediately after frying; they taste best when hot and crispy!

Dynamite Shrimp Tempura Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using medium to large shrimp is best for achieving that perfect balance of crunchy outside and juicy inside. Look for fresh shrimp with a firm texture, avoiding any that have dark spots or an off odor.

How should I store leftovers of the Dynamite Shrimp Tempura?
For any leftover shrimp, feel free to store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in the oven for a few minutes, which helps retain some of that crunch.

Can I freeze the Dynamite Shrimp Tempura?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cooked shrimp to cool, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once fully frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them directly into a preheated air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until crispy again.

What do I do if my batter doesn’t turn out crispy?
Sometimes it happens! If your batter isn’t crisping up, ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350-375°F). Also, using cold batter is essential; warm or room-temperature batter can lead to a less crispy texture. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying—this can lower the oil temperature and result in sogginess.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re making these for someone with gluten allergies, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish. Additionally, if anyone at your gathering has a mayo allergy, consider making the aioli with dairy-free mayo as a tasty alternative.

How do I adjust the spice level in the sriracha aioli?
The more the merrier when it comes to flavor! To adjust the spice level, simply reduce the amount of sriracha in the aioli if you prefer a milder taste or increase it for a bolder, spicier kick. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you can also experiment with other hot sauces that suit your taste!