Crispy Orange Shrimp

Crispy Orange Shrimp is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines crispy, golden-brown shrimp with a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. This recipe brings together the best of takeout-style orange shrimp with the satisfaction of a homemade meal. The perfectly battered and fried shrimp are coated in a luscious orange glaze, creating a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or entertaining guests, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be serving up restaurant-quality shrimp in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy Perfection: The shrimp are coated in a light, crunchy batter that holds up beautifully under the sauce.
  • Bold, Fresh Flavors: The orange sauce is sweet, tangy, and balanced with a touch of heat.
  • Better Than Takeout: Skip the restaurant and make this delicious dish at home.
  • Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Elegant Presentation: Impress your family or guests with a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
  • Versatile Pairings: Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Serving Size: 6-8 shrimp

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 420
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 12g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce

  • ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)

Optional Garnishes

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions
  • Thinly sliced orange wedges

For Serving

  • Steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Beat the eggs in a separate shallow dish.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

  1. Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  2. Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, then return to the flour mixture, coating thoroughly.
  3. Place the coated shrimp on a plate or tray and repeat with the remaining shrimp.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accurate temperature control.
  2. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using).
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

  1. Transfer the fried shrimp to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Pour the warm orange sauce over the shrimp and gently toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter or individual plates.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and orange wedges, if desired.
  3. Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

Ingredient Background

  • Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well. Tail-on shrimp provide a beautiful presentation, but you can use fully peeled shrimp for easier eating.
  • Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide a bright, tangy flavor.
  • Cornstarch: Used in both the batter and the sauce, cornstarch ensures crispy shrimp and a silky glaze.
  • Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the tanginess of the orange and soy sauce.
  • Chili Flakes: Optional but adds a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Technique Tips

  • Dry the Shrimp: Patting the shrimp dry helps the batter adhere better.
  • Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F to ensure crispy, golden shrimp without absorbing excess oil.
  • Toss Gently: When coating the shrimp in sauce, toss gently to avoid breaking the crispy coating.
  • Thicken Sauce Gradually: Add the cornstarch slurry slowly while stirring to avoid lumps.
  • Serve Immediately: The shrimp are best enjoyed fresh and hot to retain their crispy texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

  • Shrimp Bowls: Serve over rice or quinoa with steamed broccoli and carrots for a complete meal.
  • Orange Shrimp Tacos: Stuff the shrimp into tortillas with cabbage slaw and a drizzle of sauce.
  • Appetizer Platter: Serve the shrimp on skewers with orange wedges and dipping sauce for an appetizer.
  • Noodle Stir-Fry: Toss the shrimp and sauce with stir-fried noodles and vegetables for a hearty dish.

Additional Tips for Success

  • Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, make a larger batch to drizzle over your sides.
  • Use a Wire Rack: Place fried shrimp on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain crispiness.
  • Marinate the Shrimp: For more flavor, marinate the shrimp in soy sauce and garlic for 10 minutes before battering.
  • Low-Calorie Option: Bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of deep-frying for a lighter version.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Orange Shrimp: Increase chili flakes or add sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
  • Pineapple Orange Shrimp: Add diced pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
  • Coconut Orange Shrimp: Use coconut milk in the sauce and coat the shrimp in shredded coconut before frying.
  • Vegetarian Orange Glaze: Use the sauce on tofu, cauliflower, or tempeh for a plant-based dish.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap the rice with cauliflower rice or serve the shrimp over a bed of greens.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked, battered shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag once frozen, and fry directly from frozen.
  • Storage: Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat shrimp in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness. Reheat sauce on the stovetop or microwave.

Healthier Twist Ideas

  • Bake Instead of Fry: Place battered shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook shrimp in an air fryer at 375°F for 8-10 minutes for a lighter alternative.
  • Reduce Sugar: Replace honey with a natural sweetener or use less to lower sugar content.
  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas into the dish for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

  • Dinner Party Entrée: Serve with jasmine rice, sautéed green beans, and orange slices for an elegant main course.
  • Appetizer Platter: Arrange shrimp on skewers with dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
  • Family-Style Meal: Pair with egg rolls, fried rice, and a simple cucumber salad for a takeout-inspired dinner.
  • Special Occasion Dish: Plate with garlic butter asparagus and roasted potatoes for a more formal meal.

Special Equipment

  • Wok or Deep Skillet: For frying the shrimp.
  • Thermometer: To monitor oil temperature for consistent frying results.
  • Zester: Essential for getting fresh orange zest.
  • Whisk: For blending the sauce and cornstarch slurry.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use frozen shrimp?
    Yes, thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before using.
  • What’s the best oil for frying?
    Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying.
  • Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    While it’s best served fresh, you can fry the shrimp and reheat them in the oven before tossing in the sauce.
  • How do I make the dish spicier?
    Add more chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
  • What’s a good side dish for this recipe?
    Steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light Asian slaw are great pairings.
  • Can I use bottled orange juice?
    Yes, but fresh orange juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
  • How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
    Ensure the shrimp are dry before battering and fry at the correct temperature to set the coating.
  • Can I use other proteins?
    Yes, chicken, tofu, or fish fillets work well with the same preparation.

Conclusion

Crispy Orange Shrimp is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating your favorite takeout or impressing dinner guests, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with ease. Serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal that’s packed with flavor. Customize the heat level, experiment with variations, and enjoy the satisfaction of making this delicious dish at home. Happy cooking!

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Crispy Orange Shrimp Recipe


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce

  • ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)

Optional Garnishes

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions
  • Thinly sliced orange wedges

For Serving

  • Steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Beat the eggs in a separate shallow dish.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

  1. Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  2. Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, then return to the flour mixture, coating thoroughly.
  3. Place the coated shrimp on a plate or tray and repeat with the remaining shrimp.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accurate temperature control.
  2. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using).
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

  1. Transfer the fried shrimp to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Pour the warm orange sauce over the shrimp and gently toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter or individual plates.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and orange wedges, if desired.
  3. Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6-8 shrimp
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g

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