Spicy Shrimp Patties Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, textures, and just the right amount of heat, let me introduce you to the irresistible delight of Spicy Shrimp Patties. These golden, crispy patties meld fresh shrimp with fragrant spices like garam masala and turmeric, plus the zing of Thai green chiles, all wrapped up in a tender yet crisp bite. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main course, this recipe hits all the right notes and will quickly become one of your favorite go-tos in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spicy Shrimp Patties lies in how a handful of simple, vibrant ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavor and texture. Each element plays its part — from the fresh shrimp providing a sweet, succulent base to the spices lending warmth and complexity.

• 1 pound shrimp, shelled, deveined and roughly chopped: The star protein; fresh or thawed works best for a succulent texture.
• 1 small white onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sharpness and crunch.
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro: Provides fresh herbaceous brightness.
• 2 Thai green chiles, finely chopped: Infuses the patties with a lively, spicy kick.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as the perfect binder for the mixture.
• ¼ cup plain bread crumbs: Helps give structure without overwhelming the delicate shrimp.
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste or freshly grated ginger: Adds warm, aromatic zing.
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste or freshly grated garlic: Essential for that savory, pungent depth.
• ½ teaspoon Kashmiri or other mild red chile powder: Brings vibrant color and subtle heat.
• ½ teaspoon cumin powder: Offers earthy warmth.
• ½ teaspoon garam masala: The magic blend of spices delivering complexity and aroma.
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder: Lends a beautiful golden hue and a touch of earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• ¼ cup ghee or neutral-tasting oil: For frying to crispy perfection with a rich finish.
• Mint or mango chutney, for serving: Adds refreshing or sweet contrast on the side.

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Patties

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by placing your roughly chopped shrimp, finely chopped onion, cilantro, and Thai green chiles into a medium mixing bowl. Next, add the beaten egg and bread crumbs to help bind the patties. Now comes the exciting part — the spices! Include the ginger, garlic, Kashmiri chile powder, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and sea salt. Mix everything gently yet thoroughly until you have a cohesive mixture that’s bursting with earthy, spicy aromas.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Once your mixture is ready, use your hands or a ¼-cup measure to shape the shrimp mixture into even patties about 2 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. This size is perfect for pan-frying to a golden crisp on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Set the patties aside for a moment before cooking.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat the ghee or neutral oil in a skillet over high heat for about 30 to 45 seconds until shimmering. Reduce the heat to medium and carefully add the shrimp patties in batches to prevent overcrowding, which ensures they cook evenly and crisp up nicely. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and the shrimp inside turns opaque. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Patties

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the patties beautifully. A sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro or a few thin slices of green chile can add pops of color and freshness. Don’t forget to serve them alongside a dollop of mint or mango chutney for that perfect contrast of cooling sweetness or tangy brightness, which complements the bold spices in the patties perfectly.

Side Dishes

Spicy Shrimp Patties pair wonderfully with simple sides that soak up their flavors. Think fluffy basmati rice, lightly dressed green salads, or even warm naan bread. Roasted vegetables or a cucumber raita add refreshing balance and make for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and exciting to the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Spicy Shrimp Patties to the next level by serving them as sliders on mini buns with crisp lettuce and a smear of chutney mayo. Alternatively, create a vibrant appetizer platter with colorful dips, sliced veggies, and your patties as the showstopper. They’re also excellent crumbled over mixed greens or tucked into soft tacos with a squeeze of lime for a fun fusion twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Spicy Shrimp Patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal addition. Just be mindful that the patties are best eaten while still relatively fresh, as their texture can change if left too long.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the uncooked patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet so they do not touch and pop them in the freezer for a couple of hours until firm. Then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Frozen patties keep their quality for up to 1 month and can be fried straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat cooked Spicy Shrimp Patties, gently warm them in a skillet over low-medium heat until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that delightful crispy exterior, but it works fine in a pinch. A quick bake at 350°F (175°C) on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes is also a great way to restore their crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Spicy Shrimp Patties?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the mixture, which can affect the patties’ texture.

How spicy are these Spicy Shrimp Patties?

The heat level can be adjusted easily by controlling the amount or type of chiles you use. Thai green chiles provide a medium heat, but you can reduce them or substitute with milder peppers for less spice.

Can I bake the patties instead of frying?

You can bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baking is a healthier option and still yields delicious results, although frying gives that optimal crispy crust.

What chutney pairs best with these patties?

Mint chutney gives a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint, while mango chutney offers a sweet and tangy contrast. Both are fantastic; choose based on your preferred flavor profile or try both!

Are these patties gluten-free?

Not as written because of the bread crumbs, but you can easily substitute gluten-free bread crumbs or ground nuts to keep them gluten-free without sacrificing texture.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Shrimp Patties are the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to something special. Their vibrant spices, tender shrimp, and crispy edges make every bite a delight. Give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite in your cooking repertoire!

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