As I stood by the kitchen window, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling garlic danced through the air, whisking me away to the vibrant food trucks of Hawaii. This Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe brings that beachside magic right into your home, all in just 25 minutes! With a perfect balance of crispy texture and rich garlic butter sauce, it’s a quick seafood delight that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Not only does it make for an incredible main course, but it can also shine as an appetizer for any gathering. Made from simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to transform your dinner into a flavorful island experience. Curious to discover how to achieve that restaurant-quality crunch? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this shrimp recipe so special?
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crispy Perfection: Each shrimp is coated to achieve an unforgettable crunch, reminiscent of beachside food trucks.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of aromatic garlic butter and zesty lemon elevates the taste, creating a delightful symphony of flavors.
Versatile Ingredient: Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, this recipe is ideal for any occasion. Consider pairing it with a refreshing salad or rice for a complete meal.
No-Fuss Cooking: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can master this delightful dish. For more quick and flavorful meal ideas, check out our Seafood Recipes.
Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
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For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use fresh or thawed shrimp, preferably shell-on for added texture.
• Neutral Oil – Choose a cooking fat like canola, which can be easily substituted with olive or avocado oil. -
For the Coating
• Potato/Corn Starch – Excellent for creating a crispy coating; opt for cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Paprika – Adds beautiful color and a mild flavor; smoked paprika can give it a different twist.
• Onion Powder – This helps provide depth to the shrimp’s seasoning.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the garlic profile of the dish; fresh garlic can also elevate the flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; feel free to adjust according to your preference. -
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Butter – Key for richness in the sauce; use unsalted for better control over seasoning.
• Garlic (minced) – The heart of the dish; adjust the quantity based on personal preference for garlic flavor. -
For Serving
• Lemon Wedges – Brightens and enhances the dish; fresh lemon is highly recommended for that zesty finish.
Enjoy making this Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp that delights the palate and transforms your dinner into a mini tropical getaway!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by cleaning and deveining the shrimp, ensuring to keep the shells on for extra crunch. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This important step sets the foundation for that crispy outer texture you’ll crave in your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine potato or corn starch, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Toss the cleaned shrimp into this mixture, coating each piece thoroughly. The goal is to create a crispy layer that will fry up beautifully.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat a generous amount of neutral oil in a wide skillet over medium heat, ensuring the oil can cover the bottom of the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers and a drop of water sizzles upon contact. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust as you prepare your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy, then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step allows the shrimp to develop an irresistible crunch.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat slightly after frying, keeping a couple of tablespoons of the oil in the pan. Add unsalted butter to the retained oil and let it melt slowly, stirring frequently. This step creates a rich base for your garlic butter sauce that will complement your shrimp perfectly.
Step 6: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned. The aroma will fill your kitchen, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Once the garlic is fragrant, fold the fried shrimp into the garlic butter sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Serve the delicious shrimp immediately, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges and rice for a complete meal. Your homemade Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is ready to be enjoyed with loved ones!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can clean and devein the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; just store them covered in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can mix the coating ingredients (potato/corn starch, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper) and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. On cooking day, simply toss the shrimp in the coating, fry them as directed, and finish with the garlic butter sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp with minimal effort on busy weeknights, all while maintaining that delightful crispiness!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the crispy texture of the shrimp.
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Freezer: If you need to store for longer, place the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat frozen shrimp, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat. To revitalize crispiness, consider pan-frying them briefly.
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Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the shrimp out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety concerns. Enjoy your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp safely!
Expert Tips for Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
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Choose Quality Shrimp: Start with fresh or high-quality thawed shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using pre-cooked shrimp; freshness is key to achieving that crispy finish.
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Maintain Oil Temperature: Fry shrimp in batches to keep the oil hot. If the oil temperature drops, you risk soggy shrimp that won’t get that delightful crunch.
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Adjust Garlic Levels: If you adore garlic’s rich taste, feel free to increase the minced garlic amount in the sauce. This enhances the overall flavor profile of the Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
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Use Starch Wisely: Coating the shrimp thoroughly in potato or corn starch is crucial for crispiness. Don’t rush this step; an even coating leads to a perfectly crunchy result.
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Serve Fresh: Enjoy this dish right after preparation for the best experience. The shrimp can lose their crispiness if left too long before serving, so bring your family to the table pronto!
Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Feel free to customize this delightful shrimp recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs, making every bite a unique experience!
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil for a delicious, dairy-free garlic sauce.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a delightful kick, elevating the flavor profile of your dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for crispy tofu cubes for a fun, plant-based alternative that’s equally satisfying.
- Crispier Shrimp: For an even crunchier finish, double-coat the shrimp by dipping in egg before the starch coating, ensuring maximum crisp!
- Zesty Variation: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice into the garlic butter sauce for a tangy upgrade. This adds a lovely umami flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the garlic.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the aroma by adding fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to the garlic sauce right before serving. It brings freshness that brightens each bite.
- Mixed Seafood Medley: Combine shrimp with other seafood like squid or fish filets for a delightful seafood platter that diversifies textures and flavors.
- Crispy Vegetable Addition: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli florets while frying for an exciting texture twist and healthier option. It’s a satisfying way to incorporate vegetables into your meal!
By exploring these variations, you’ll open up a world of flavor possibilities. Want to dive deeper into savory seafood options? Check out our Seafood Recipes for more inspiration!
What to Serve with Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This dish captures the carefree spirit of the islands; pair it with delightful sides for a complete culinary experience.
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Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the savory garlic butter sauce, providing a neutral base for the shrimp. The fluffy texture compliments the crispy shrimp wonderfully.
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Crisp Green Salad: Refreshing greens with a light vinaigrette offer a burst of freshness to balance the rich flavors of the dish. Include ingredients like cucumber and cherry tomatoes for added crunch.
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Roasted Veggies: Colorful roasted bell peppers and zucchini add warmth and complement the shrimp beautifully. Their natural sweetness offsets the garlicky kick, creating a delightful contrast.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing twist and slight acidity that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce. The crunchiness enhances the overall texture of your meal.
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Lemon Wedges: Essential for squeezing over the shrimp, they bring a zesty brightness that enhances the flavors and makes every bite pop.
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Mango Salsa: A sweet and spicy salsa adds a tropical touch, elevating your dinner into an island fête. The freshness of the mango pairs beautifully with the crispy shrimp.
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Sparkling Coconut Water: For a refreshing drink, sparkly coconut water pairs perfectly with the meal, offering hydration with a subtle sweetness that complements the dish.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert, balancing the savory elements of the shrimp with its moist and fruity flavors—a true Hawaiian touch!
Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh or properly thawed shrimp, preferably shell-on for that extra crunch. Shell-on shrimp tends to retain more moisture and flavor during cooking, enhancing the overall experience of this delicious dish.
How do I store leftover Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispy texture, reheat them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. This prevents the shrimp from becoming soggy and ensures you enjoy them just as much as when they were fresh!
Can I freeze Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Sure! To freeze, first let the cooked shrimp cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet or oven to restore their delicious crispiness.
How can I keep the shrimp crispy when reheating?
To maintain that crispy texture during reheating, I highly recommend re-frying the shrimp in a bit of oil over low heat. This helps revive the crunch while warming them through. Simply add a splash of neutral oil to your skillet and reheat gently, turning to crisp all sides evenly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! Just swap out the potato starch for cornstarch, which is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that any other ingredients you may use (like sauces) are also labeled gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful flavors of your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp without worries!
Is this dish safe for pets?
Generally, shrimp are safe for dogs in moderation, but it’s best to serve them plain without the garlic butter sauce, as garlic can be toxic to pets. Always check with your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet to be on the safe side.
Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp for a Flavorful Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cleaning and deveining the shrimp, ensuring to keep the shells on for extra crunch. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a mixing bowl, combine potato or corn starch, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the cleaned shrimp into this mixture.
- Heat a generous amount of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- After frying, lower the heat, add unsalted butter to the remaining oil, and let melt stirring frequently.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Fold the fried shrimp into the garlic butter sauce, serve immediately with lemon wedges.