What’s in Firecracker Shrimp?

Firecracker shrimp typically includes large shrimp coated in a light flour or cornstarch dredge, then tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce made with chili paste, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar. Some recipes also add sesame oil, green onions, and sesame seeds as finishing touches for extra flavor and crunch. It’s the irresistible combination of these ingredients that gives the dish its signature kick.

What is another name for Firecracker Shrimp?

You might see it called “Bang Bang Shrimp” in some restaurants or recipes, though Bang Bang is often creamier due to a mayo-based sauce. Firecracker shrimp generally leans more toward a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze. Both are delicious, but firecracker shrimp has a bolder, more hypnotic heat.

What is in Panda Express Firecracker Shrimp?

Panda Express’s version includes wok-tossed shrimp with bell peppers, onions, and a zesty black bean sauce. While it’s different from the classic chili-honey glaze, it delivers a similar spicy-savory punch. You can easily replicate their take at home by adding sautéed veggies and a splash of black bean sauce to your pan.

Is Firecracker Shrimp healthy?

In moderation, firecracker shrimp can fit into a healthy diet. Shrimp itself is low in calories and high in protein, though the sauce can be high in sugar and sodium. For a lighter version, bake instead of fry the shrimp, and reduce the amount of honey or sugar in the sauce. Serve it over lettuce cups or alongside steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.

Why do people put Sprite in shrimp?

Some recipes use Sprite (or 7UP) in the marinade because the carbonation and sugar tenderize the shrimp and add a subtle sweetness. It’s a fun, unusual trick if you’re experimenting, but certainly not required to make great firecracker shrimp.

Did Panda Express get rid of Firecracker Shrimp?

Their firecracker shrimp has rotated on and off the menu as a seasonal offering. If it’s not currently available at your location, the good news is you can make a delicious homemade version with ease and even better flavor. For more dinner inspiration, check out my Italian dense bean salad which also packs bold flavors.

Firecracker Shrimp Stunning Recipe With 5 Irresistible Variations

Name: Firecracker Shrimp: Stunning Homemade Recipe Bursting With Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola); 1/4 cup chili paste (like sambal oelek); 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; Sesame seeds, for garnish

Firecracker Shrimp: Stunning Homemade Recipe Bursting With Flavor

Close-up of crispy firecracker shrimp with sesame and scallions

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A vibrant, sweet-and-spicy firecracker shrimp that’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Bursting with bold flavors and perfect for serving over rice, in lettuce wraps, or on skewers.

Author: Ella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)
1/4 cup chili paste (like sambal oelek)
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Instructions

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels, then toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until just pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together chili paste, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar.
Pour sauce mixture into the skillet and cook for 1 minute until it starts to thicken slightly.
Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly in sauce.
Cook for another minute to heat through, then transfer to a serving platter.
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, bake shrimp at 400°F for 8–10 minutes instead of frying. Adjust chili paste for more or less heat to suit your taste. This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or butter lettuce wraps.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 ounces
Calories: 210
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 190mg

Find it online: https://jointhedinnerparty.com/firecracker-shrimp/