Crispy Shrimp Pockets

Crispy Shrimp Pockets are one of my favorite dishes to make. I remember the first time I tried to create this recipe, I wanted something crispy on the outside with a soft, flavorful filling inside. Crispy Shrimp Pockets are perfect for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a snack to share with friends. The idea of shrimp wrapped in a crispy shell always makes my mouth water! Every time I make these, they remind me of the delicious flavors I love to bring into my cooking.

The Joy of Cooking Crispy Shrimp Pockets

As I prepare the ingredients for Crispy Shrimp Pockets, I can’t help but think about how much fun it is to put together. The shrimp, seasoned just right, gets tucked into a soft pocket of dough, ready to be fried until golden and crispy. There’s something so satisfying about hearing that sizzle when the shrimp pockets hit the hot oil. It’s one of those moments that makes cooking feel magical, like the simple ingredients are transforming into something special.

The First Bite of Crispy Shrimp Pockets

The best part of Crispy Shrimp Pockets is the first bite. When I take a bite, the crispy outer layer crunches perfectly, and the shrimp inside is tender and full of flavor. It’s like a burst of joy in every bite. The combination of the crispy texture and the juicy shrimp makes this dish irresistible. I love serving it with a tangy dipping sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon, which just adds to the deliciousness.

Sharing Crispy Shrimp Pockets with Friends

Whenever I make Crispy Shrimp Pockets, I think about how much joy they bring to the people I share them with. Whether it’s family gathered around the table or friends at a casual get-together, Crispy Shrimp Pockets always become the star of the meal. It’s one of those recipes that brings people together, and I can’t wait to make them again!

Chef’s Notes- Crispy Shrimp Pockets

• Perfecting the Shrimp Filling: When chopping the shrimp, ensure the pieces are small and uniform for a smooth texture. A food processor works best for achieving a consistent paste, but if you prefer a chunkier filling, chop the shrimp by hand for added texture.
• Testing Seasoning Before Wrapping: It’s essential to test the flavor of your filling before assembling the dumplings. Fry a small spoonful of the shrimp mixture and taste it for seasoning. This gives you a chance to adjust the soy sauce, sesame oil, or sugar to your liking.
• Dumpling Wrappers Tip: If you’re not using fresh dumpling wrappers, keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while assembling. If using rice paper wrappers, remember to soak them quickly in warm water to soften before filling.
• Oil Temperature: For a perfect golden crisp, ensure your frying oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before adding the dumplings. If the oil is too cool, the dumplings will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they may burn on the outside before cooking through.
• Freezer-Friendly: These dumplings freeze well. After assembling them, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To cook, fry them directly from frozen—no need to thaw.
• Dipping Sauce Variety: While a classic soy-based sauce or spicy mayo works great, you can experiment with different dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, hoisin, or even a vinegar-based sauce to elevate the flavors of your crispy shrimp pockets.

Crispy Shrimp Pockets

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: Appetizer, SnackCuisine: ChineseDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

600

kcal

Resting Time

5

minutes

Total time

50

minutes

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these irresistibly crunchy shrimp pockets! Inspired by top chefs, this homemade recipe delivers restaurant-quality dim sum right in your kitchen. Perfectly seasoned shrimp encased in a golden, crispy wrapper will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, these delectable bites are sure to impress. Plus, with easy-to-follow steps, even novice cooks can master the art of delicious dumplings. Dive into a world of flavor and texture – your dim sum cravings are about to be satisfied like never before!

Ingredients

• Filling

• 1 ½ cups peeled and deveined shrimp coarsely chopped

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon fish sauce optional for extra depth

• 2 green onions finely sliced

• Wrapping

• 1 to 2 packages dumpling skins

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Shrimp: Substitute with finely chopped chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Dumpling Wrappers: Use rice paper wrappers for a gluten-free alternative.

• Soy Sauce: Replace with tamari sauce for a gluten-free version.

• Fish Sauce: Omit or use additional soy sauce to maintain flavor for vegetarians.

• Sesame Oil: Light sesame oil can be used if toasted variety is unavailable.

Directions

• Preparing the Filling – Begin by thoroughly cleaning and chopping the shrimp into small pieces to ensure a uniform texture. In a food processor, blend the chopped shrimp with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, black pepper, fish sauce (if using), and green onions until you achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency. This mixture forms the savory core of your dumplings and is crucial for flavor distribution. *(Time: 10 minutes)*
• Seasoning the Mixture – Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat and cook a spoonful of the shrimp paste for about a minute to taste the seasoning. Adjust the flavors by adding more soy sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, or pepper for spice as needed. This step ensures your dumplings are perfectly seasoned before wrapping. *(Time: 5 minutes)*
• Assembling the Dumplings – Lay out the dumpling wrappers on a clean surface and place approximately one teaspoon of the shrimp filling in the center of each wrapper. Moisten the edges with water using your finger and fold the wrapper over the filling, pressing firmly to seal. For a decorative touch, pinch the edges or create pleats to secure the dumpling. *(Time: 10 minutes)*
• Frying the Dumplings – Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the dumplings in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, and fry them for about 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. This creates the beloved crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. *(Time: 15 minutes)*
• Finishing and Serving – Once fried, transfer the dumplings to a wire rack to drain any excess oil and maintain their crispiness. Serve them warm with your choice of dipping sauces, such as a tangy soy-based sauce or a spicy mayo. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor. *(Time: 5 minutes)*

Equipment

• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board
• food processor
• cast iron skillet
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• instant read thermometer
• wire rack

Notes

• Ensure your oil is properly heated before frying to achieve an even, golden crisp on your dumplings. To make the assembly process easier, cover the dumpling wrappers with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. Serve these crispy shrimp pockets alongside a fresh Asian slaw or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, incorporate finely minced garlic or ginger into the shrimp filling. Leftover dumplings can be stored in the freezer and fried directly from frozen when needed, making them a convenient option for quick snacks or last-minute gatherings.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 600kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 1500mg
• Potassium: 400mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Vitamin A: 500IU
• Vitamin C: 5mg
• Calcium: 100mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQ- Crispy Shrimp Pockets

Can I make these shrimp pockets ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dumplings in advance and freeze them. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen for a crispy, delicious result.

What can I use as a substitute for fish sauce?

If you prefer not to use fish sauce, you can either omit it or substitute with additional soy sauce for a slightly different flavor. Tamari sauce works well for a gluten-free alternative.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

Use a kitchen thermometer to check the oil temperature. It should reach 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of the shrimp filling into the oil—if it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready.

Can I use something other than shrimp for the filling?

Yes! If you’re looking for an alternative protein, finely chopped chicken or tofu works well as a substitute for shrimp. You can also use a mixture of both for a delicious, mixed filling.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Leftover crispy shrimp pockets can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can either bake them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness or quickly pan-fry them again. They can also be frozen for long-term storage.