Introduction to Thai Shrimp Cakes
If you’re a fan of prawn dishes and looking for a flavorful seafood treat, this Thai Shrimp Cake recipe is a must-try. Originating from the vibrant street food culture of Thailand, these crispy and juicy shrimp patties are packed with bold flavors and a hint of spice. They make an excellent appetizer, snack, or side dish, complementing any Thai meal perfectly.
Not only are these Thai shrimp cakes incredibly delicious, but they’re also easy to make at home. This shrimp cake recipe brings together fresh shrimp, aromatic herbs, and simple seasonings to create a delightful dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether deep-fried or pan-seared, these shrimp cakes are perfect for seafood lovers and fans of baked seafood alike.
Why You’ll Love This Thai Shrimp Cake Recipe
- Crispy and Juicy: Perfectly golden brown on the outside, moist and tender inside.
- Easy to Make: Requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, a side dish, or even in a resip sushi roll.
- Great for Meal Prep: Store leftovers and reheat them easily for a quick snack.
- Packed with Flavor: A combination of shrimp, Thai seasonings, and fresh herbs make these shrimp patties absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients for Thai Shrimp Cakes
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp red curry paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or substitute with crushed crackers)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ cup long beans, finely chopped (long beans add texture and color)
- ¼ cup cornstarch (for coating)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 3 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Finely chop the shrimp using a sharp knife or pulse in a food processor until coarsely ground. Be careful not to over-process; you want some texture in the mixture.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground shrimp with fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, red curry paste, garlic, ginger, breadcrumbs, egg, cilantro, green onions, salt, black pepper, sugar, and finely chopped long beans. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the Shrimp Cakes
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the shrimp mixture and shape into small, round shrimp patties. Lightly coat each with cornstarch to ensure a crispy texture when fried.
Step 4: Fry or Bake the Shrimp Cakes
- For frying: Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the shrimp cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- For baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
Mix the Thai sweet chili sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir well and serve alongside the crispy shrimp cakes.
Serving Suggestions
These Thai shrimp cakes pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A simple yet classic pairing.
- Thai Papaya Salad: A fresh and zesty contrast to the fried shrimp cakes.
- Cucumber Salad: A cooling side dish that balances the heat.
- Resep Sushi Rolls: Incorporate these shrimp cakes into a sushi roll for a unique fusion dish.
- Baked Seafood Platter: Serve alongside grilled fish or roasted scallops for a seafood feast.
Tips for the Best Thai Shrimp Cakes
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp provides the best texture and flavor. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more red curry paste or red pepper flakes if you love extra heat.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: Keep the oil at medium heat to avoid burning the shrimp cakes.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make shrimp cakes without breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use crushed crackers, almond flour, or even mashed potatoes as a substitute.
2. Can I freeze shrimp cakes?
Absolutely! Shape the patties and freeze them in a single layer. When ready to cook, thaw slightly and fry or bake.
3. Are shrimp cakes gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and breadcrumbs.
4. Can I air-fry shrimp cakes?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. What can I substitute for fish sauce?
You can replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian alternative.
6. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and well-drained before using.
7. Can I make this recipe with other seafood?
Definitely! You can try using crab, scallops, or a mix of seafood for variation.
8. What dipping sauce pairs best with shrimp cakes?
Thai sweet chili sauce is the most popular, but you can also serve with sriracha mayo or a citrus soy sauce.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Thai Shrimp Cake Recipe
If you love prawn dishes and are looking for an easy yet incredibly flavorful shrimp cake recipe, these Thai shrimp cakes are perfect for you. They’re crispy, delicious, and simple to make, whether fried or baked.
Try this baked seafood delight and impress your guests with homemade shrimp patties that rival any restaurant dish. Enjoy with a side of long beans, a fresh salad, or even as a filling in resip sushi rolls.
Give this Thai Shrimp Cake recipe a try today and experience the bold, authentic flavors of Thailand right in your own kitchen!
