This week, we’re diving into a recipe that’s as satisfying as it is versatile: homemade fried shrimp rolls. Perfect for a quick and easy meal, these sandwiches feature crispy, golden shrimp as the star of the show. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—feel free to get creative with your choice of toppings, garnishes, and rolls to suit your taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic combo or something a bit more adventurous, this crispy shrimp will elevate your sandwich to new heights. Let’s get frying and discover just how deliciously customizable these shrimp rolls can be!
Ingredients
To get started on these scrumptious fried shrimp sandwiches, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the shrimp:
- Vegetable oil (approximately 2 to 2 1/2 cups) for frying
- 1 pound of jumbo shrimp, cleaned, peeled, and deveined with tails removed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup of milk (whole or reduced fat)
- 1 cup of corn starch
These basics will set you up for crispy, flavorful shrimp that form the perfect foundation for your shrimp rolls.
When it comes to garnishes, the possibilities are endless. Lime or lemon wedges add a refreshing zesty touch, while one or two thinly sliced chili or jalapeno peppers can bring a pleasant heat. For a sweet/spicy contrast, try drizzling some sweet chili sauce—Whole Foods’ 365 Organic Sweet Chili Sauce brand is particularly delicious. Don’t forget a handful of fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbal freshness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
For the rolls, consider a simple yet flavorful spread. A combination of 1/2 cup of softened butter or mayonnaise mixed with grated garlic creates a savory base that pairs perfectly with the crispy shrimp. Remember, while the spread and garnishes allow for personal flair, the true star of this recipe is the crispy shrimp itself. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and spreads to make this sandwich uniquely yours!
Preparing Shrimp Rolls
Let’s get cooking! Start by pouring approximately 1 inch of vegetable oil into a heavy skillet—my personal favorite is a 12″ cast iron pan. Heat the oil over medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit if you’re using a thermometer.
While the oil heats up, prep your shrimp. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Next, dip each shrimp into the milk, then dredge them in cornstarch, ensuring a good coating. If necessary, gently press the cornstarch onto the shrimp to make sure it sticks.
Once your oil reaches the desired temperature, carefully add the shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry the shrimp until they are cooked through, turning them about halfway through cooking (around 2 minutes per side) to achieve a golden brown color on both sides. After frying, transfer the shrimp to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and season with a little more salt and pepper if desired.
Now, let’s move on to the rolls. You can prepare them ahead and keep them warm in the oven while the shrimp cook; or you can prep the rolls while the shrimp are cooking. To do this, heat another cast iron skillet over medium heat. Spread your butter/garlic mixture or mayonnaise/garlic spread on the inner sides of the buns. Place them cut-side down in the skillet and toast until they are golden brown and crispy. Once toasted, remove the rolls and set them aside on serving plates.
Assemble
Assemble your shrimp rolls with a touch of creativity! Start by adding another dab of your chosen spread—whether it’s the butter/garlic or mayo/garlic mix—right in the center of each toasted roll. Then, generously fill the rolls with the crispy, golden shrimp. The finishing touches are where you can truly make these shrimp rolls your own. As we discussed, consider topping them with sliced chili or jalapeno peppers for a spicy kick, fresh cilantro for a burst of herby freshness, or a squeeze of lemon or lime for a zesty zing. A drizzle of sweet chili sauce can add a delightful spicy/sweetness.
The possibilities are endless, so let your taste preferences guide you. I’m excited to hear about the unique toppings and combinations you come up with—feel free to share your delicious creations!
