Popcorn shrimp
Popcorn shrimp is made using raw shrimp that have been peeled, deveined, and cut into bite-sized pieces. The shrimp is then lightly coated with a combination of corn meal, flour, baking powder, eggs, and seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, and parsley. After being fried in oil, the shrimp emerges crisp and golden-brown.
But that's not all that makes popcorn shrimp such a powerhouse of flavor. Its seasoning can vary from recipe to recipe, allowing for a plethora of taste combinations. Some recipes call for a light dusting of lemon juice or hot sauce, while others incorporate chili powder for a bit of extra kick. Whatever the combination may be, popcorn shrimp is undoubtedly one of the most versatile dishes around.
From being an appetizer to a main course, popcorn shrimp can bring an exciting variety to any plate. Serve it as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like tartar or remoulade, or as an entree paired with a delicious side dish such as macaroni and cheese or roasted vegetables. It can even be used in salads, tacos, or wraps for a light and flavorful lunch.
There's no denying it — popcorn shrimp is a surefire crowd pleaser. Packed with flavor and easily customizable to suit any palate, it's no wonder why this is one of the world's favorite seafood dishes.
Popcorn shrimp recipes
Amazing Popcorn shrimp recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Popcorn shrimp
Ah, popcorn shrimp: the delectable, crunchy morsels of succulent seafood-y delight. But where did this delightful dish’s roots truly lie? Let’s take a deep dive into its history to discover its origin story…
Popcorn shrimp is believed to have been developed in the early 1950s by Japanese tempura pioneer and restauranteur, Chigaru Miyazaki, who was looking to create a new, lighter option for deep fried seafood. Taking inspiration from traditional tempura recipes – where fish, shells and vegetables are coated in batter and fried – Miyazaki played around with the idea, experimenting with the size and shape of items he could fry. It was eventually that the popcorn shrimp form was born - the petite shrimp were first coated in a hearty mixture of whole wheat, cornmeal, and spices, and then fried until they were golden and crisp.
The culture of deep-frying was traditionally more prevalent in the United States than in Japan, so it wasn’t until some time later that the delicacy spread beyond Miyazaki’s restaurant in Osaka. However, when popcorn shrimp finally made its way to the US, it quickly caught on with Americans who appreciated its light and crunchy texture.
It was a seafood restaurant in New England that first started serving the delectable dish as part of their menu, and it soon became a regular among patrons. The rest, as they say, is history, with popcorn shrimp now truly ubiquitous in restaurants across the US, as well as being found in frozen food aisles worldwide.
So whether you’re munching on them as an appetizer or making your own at home, take some time to appreciate the origins of this much-loved and tasty snack. Bon appétit!
Types of Popcorn shrimp
Popcorn shrimp, with its light and crunchy texture, has become a beloved favorite of seafood-lovers everywhere. The small morsels of succulent shrimp fried in a crispy batter have a delectable savoriness that makes them simply irresistible. But did you know that there are actually several different types of popcorn shrimp?
One of the most popular types of popcorn shrimp is tempura-style shrimp. These shrimp are dipped in a light batter made from wheat flour, cornstarch, egg yolks, and cold water, and then deep fried until they are golden-brown and extra crispy. This kind of popcorn shrimp is often served with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or a sweet and sour sauce.
Another type of popcorn shrimp is known as panko shrimp. Here, the shrimp are coated in panko breadcrumbs, which are light and airy in texture, and then deep fried to create an exceptionally crisp exterior. Panko popcorn shrimp is usually served with a mayonnaise-based dipping sauce like tartar sauce.
You may have also heard of coconut shrimp popcorn. In this dish, the shrimp is dipped in a batter made from coconut milk and spices, and then rolled in shredded coconut. The shrimp is then deep fried, resulting in a crunchy, flavorful bite. Coconut shrimp popcorn is usually served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce, such as a honey mustard sauce.
Finally, there is garlic-parmesan popcorn shrimp. For this dish, the shrimp are first smothered in a garlic butter sauce, and then coated in a combination of parmesan, Italian-style breadcrumbs, and herbs. The shrimp is then deep fried until it is crispy, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. Garlic-parmesan popcorn shrimp is typically served with a marinara or garlic aioli dipping sauce.
No matter which type of popcorn shrimp you choose, you’re sure to love its delightfully crunchy flavor. So next time you’re craving something savory and satisfying, try one of these tasty variations of popcorn shrimp – you won’t be disappointed!