Name: Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans for a Flavor Upgrade
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Large Shrimp (Peeled and deveined); 1/2 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor); 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (Adds warmth); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Base of the batter); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Prevents sogginess); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Enhances crispiness); 1 large Egg (Binds ingredients); 1/4 cup Water (Adjusts consistency); 2-3 cups Vegetable Oil (For deep frying); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Creamy base); 2 tbsp Sweetened Condensed Milk (Adds sweetness); 2 tbsp Honey (Natural sweetness); 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (Balances sweetness); 1 pinch Salt (Elevates flavor); 1/2 cup Pecans (Chopped and lightly toasted); 2 large Green Onions (Thinly sliced)

As the aroma of frying shrimp wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a spark of excitement. Today, I’m sharing my recipe for Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans, a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant culinary experience. Using a clever double-fry technique, the shrimp achieve a crunchy perfection that’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any busy weeknight or special occasion. The sweet and savory glaze complements the toasted pecans beautifully, adding an irresistible crunch that takes this meal to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this gluten-free delight promises to impress. Are you ready to bring a taste of restaurant-quality magic right to your home?

Why is this shrimp dish a must-try?

Crispy Texture: Get ready for a delightful crunch! The double-fry method ensures each shrimp is perfectly crispy, creating a satisfying bite.

Flavor Explosion: Featuring a sweet and savory glaze, this dish packs a punch, making it a feast for your taste buds.

Simple Prep: With easily accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up this meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, the stunning presentation and rich flavor combination are sure to wow everyone at the table.

Versatile Pairings: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or a light salad, akin to my Spicy Tuna Sushi or Rotisserie Chicken Salad, for an unforgettable meal that balances flavors and textures.

Crispy Glazed Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Large Shrimp (1 lb) – Essential for the main protein; use peeled and deveined shrimp for best texture.
Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp during frying.
Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Adds a subtle warmth to the batter.

For the Batter

All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup) – Forms the base of the batter and provides structure.
Cornstarch (1/2 cup) – Adds crunch and lightness; it’s crucial to preventing sogginess.
Baking Powder (1 tsp) – Creates air pockets in the batter, enhancing crispiness.
Large Egg (1) – Binds the dry ingredients together in the batter.
Water (1/4 cup) – Adjusts the consistency for easy coating.

For Frying

Vegetable Oil (2-3 cups) – Needed for deep frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point to maintain a crispy texture.

For the Glaze

Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – Forms the creamy base, providing richness to the glaze.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (2 tbsp) – Contributes sweetness and a glossy finish, ideal for the Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans.
Honey (2 tbsp) – Adds natural sweetness and enhances the sheen of the glaze.
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens up the glaze, balancing out the sweetness.
Pinch of Salt – Elevates the overall flavor of the glaze.

For the Topping

Pecans (1/2 cup, chopped and lightly toasted) – Provides a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the glaze.
Green Onions (2, thinly sliced) – Adds a splash of color and freshness to the dish.

This carefully crafted list will set you on your way to creating the most delicious Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans that your family and friends will rave about! Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the large shrimp very dry using paper towels; this is crucial to ensure they fry to a perfect crispiness. As you do this, preheat your oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), which will create the ideal environment for frying.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well blended, allowing the dry mixture to incorporate air, which helps create that desired crunch in your Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans.

Step 3: Create the Batter
In another bowl, beat the egg and add water to it. Slowly pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a smooth, thick batter forms. This batter will coat the shrimp and is essential for achieving a light, crispy texture during frying.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
Take the prepared shrimp and dip them into the batter, ensuring an even and thorough coating on all sides. This step is vital for creating the glossy, crunchy exterior that makes your dish so delectable. Allow excess batter to drip off before frying.

Step 5: First Frying
Carefully slide the battered shrimp into the hot oil, frying them in small batches for about 2-3 minutes. Look for a light golden color on the shrimp to indicate they are cooking properly. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on a wire rack.

Step 6: Rest and Increase Oil Temperature
Allow the fried shrimp to rest for about 5 minutes. While they cool slightly, increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the second fry. This step is critical to achieving that crunchy exterior without compromising the juicy interior of the shrimp.

Step 7: Second Frying
Return the shrimp to the hot oil in batches for a second frying of 1-2 minutes. This quick fry will deepen the golden brown color and give them an extra crunch. Once they are crispy and perfectly colored, remove them again with a slotted spoon and drain.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This creamy glaze will beautifully coat your fried shrimp, providing a sweet and savory balance that complements the toasted pecans wonderfully.

Step 9: Toast the Pecans
If your pecans aren’t already toasted, place them in a skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re fragrant and lightly browned. This step enhances their flavor, adding a delightful crunch to your Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans.

Step 10: Glaze the Shrimp
Gently toss the warm, fried shrimp in the prepared glaze just before serving. Ensure that every piece is evenly coated for an irresistible finish. The glaze will cling to the crispy shrimp, enriching each bite with a delightful flavor combination.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Finally, plate your glazed shrimp and generously sprinkle with the toasted pecans and sliced green onions. The presentation will be stunning, and serving them right away ensures everyone enjoys the incredible crunch of these delicious Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans.

What to Serve with Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans

The perfect accompaniments transform your kitchen creations into a feast, bringing out the best in every bite.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and mild flavor provide a harmonious backdrop, allowing the shrimp’s glaze to shine.
Crisp Green Salad: A mix of fresh greens with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, counterbalancing the richness of the shrimp.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, asparagus offers earthiness that complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.
Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles play off the shrimp’s crispiness, creating a delightful contrast with their soft texture and umami flavor.
Mango Salsa: Bright and tangy, this fruity topping adds a zesty freshness that elevates the dish, perfectly highlighting the shrimp’s sweet notes.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled drink with a hint of sweetness balances the shrimp’s flavors, refreshing your palate with every sip.

Pairing these delightful sides with the crispy glazed shrimp will create a meal that’s unforgettable and full of vibrant flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Glazed Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain the best quality, consider reheating them quickly to restore crispiness.

Freezer: Place unrefrigerated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keep them frozen for up to 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps retain the crunch that’s essential to this dish.

Avoid Moisture: To keep the shrimp from becoming soggy, do not store them in any liquid and ensure they’re fully cooled before sealing in a container.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans are not just delicious but perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the batter (flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the shrimp can be battered and kept in an airtight container for up to 3 hours prior to frying, ensuring they’re fresh and ready to go. Just remember to pat them dry again before cooking to maintain crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, fry the shrimp as instructed and toss them in the prepared glaze just before serving for that irresistible crunch. This way, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal on even the busiest weeknights!

Helpful Tricks for Crispy Glazed Shrimp

Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Make sure to pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to sogginess during frying.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F for the first fry and 375°F for the second. This precision helps achieve that perfect crispy texture in your Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and decrease the crunchiness of the shrimp.
Quick Glazing: Toss the fried shrimp in the glaze just before serving. This way, they retain their crispness and the glaze doesn’t make them soggy.
Toast Pecans for Flavor: Always toast the pecans before adding them to the dish. It enhances their nutty flavor, adding a delightful crunch to your shrimp.

Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful crispy shrimp, enhancing both flavor and texture for a meal that excites the senses!

Nutty Twist: Swap pecans for walnuts or cashews for a different nutty crunch. Each option brings a unique flavor profile that can pleasantly surprise your taste buds.
Spicy Add-On: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the batter for a kick of heat. A little spice can elevate the dish and provide a contrasting flavor to the sweet glaze.
Citrus Infusion: Incorporate lime juice instead of lemon in the glaze for a fresh twist. The zesty lime adds an intriguing tang that brightens each bite, perfect for those who love a citrusy flair.
Coconut Crust: Coat the shrimp in shredded coconut after battering for tropical flair. This variation brings a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.
Garlic Aroma: Add minced garlic to the glaze for a savory depth. Infusing the glaze with garlic can transform the dish into a savory-sweet masterpiece, making it even more irresistible.
Panko Crunch: Replace all-purpose flour with panko breadcrumbs in the coating for extra crunch. This change adds an impressive texture that makes the shrimp even heartier and more satisfying.
Herbed Glaze: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the glaze for a refreshing finish. This addition herbs not only brightens the flavors but also presents a beautiful visual contrast.
Sticky Mango: Top with diced fresh mango after glazing for a fruity contrast. The sweetness of the mango complements the shrimp’s flavor while adding a beautiful pop of color and freshness to your dish.

Each variation invites creativity and personalization, just like my recipe for Spicy Tuna Sushi or New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque. Embrace the joy of cooking and create your signature version of crispy glazed shrimp!

Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best results, select large shrimp that are fresh, firm, and translucent. Look for shrimp that are peeled and deveined to save time. If they have a slightly salty sea smell, they are fresh; avoid any that smell ammonia or have dark spots all over, as these indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftovers?
To maintain their delicious flavor, store your leftover Crispy Glazed Shrimp with Toasted Pecans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, I recommend reheating them quickly in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to recapture that crunch.

Can I freeze these shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cooked shrimp, allow them to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply place the frozen shrimp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my shrimp turn out soggy?
Very often, soggy shrimp come from excess moisture before frying. Make sure to pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels before battering. Also, maintaining the correct oil temperature is key; if it’s too low, the shrimp will absorb oil instead of frying–aim for around 350°F (175°C) for the first fry. Keeping the frying pan from overcrowding ensures that each shrimp has enough space to crisp up perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! While this recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour, always double-check your ingredients, especially the mayonnaise and sauces, as some may contain gluten or allergens. If you’re preparing for someone with allergies, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or sunflower seeds as an alternative nut option. Always inform your guests about potential allergens in your dishes!