Craving a vibrant explosion of flavor? Look no further than this irresistible recipe for Sweet & Salty Fried Shrimp, a beloved Vietnamese street food staple. Imagine succulent, juicy shrimp, perfectly crisp on the outside, coated in a magical balance of sweet and salty goodness. This isn't your average fried shrimp; the unique blend of savory fish sauce, fragrant garlic, and a touch of sweetness creates a truly unforgettable taste sensation that will leave you wanting more. The addictive coating clings beautifully to each shrimp, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
This recipe expertly balances sweet and savory notes, making it a crowd-pleaser perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal. The preparation is surprisingly simple, requiring readily available ingredients. Get ready to elevate your culinary skills and impress your friends and family with this authentic Vietnamese delicacy. Ready to dive into the delicious details? Let’s get started with our step-by-step guide.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 800g
- Salt: 0.5 tablespoon
- White wine: 1 tablespoon
- Ground pepper
- Garlic: 40g
- Shallots: 2
- Pineapple: 300g
- Sugar: 3 tablespoons
- Fish sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Seasoning powder: 0.5 tablespoon
- Chili sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Cooking oil: 3 tablespoons
- Green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Shrimp and Marinade
- Remove the heads, squeeze to remove the black thread, and wash thoroughly with salt and white wine for 3 minutes. Rinse with water 2-3 times until clean.
- In a bowl, marinate the shrimp with salt, pepper, and white wine for 5-10 minutes.
- Finely chop the garlic and shallots.



Step 2. Fry the Aromatics and Shrimp
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add the minced garlic and shallots and fry until golden brown and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
- Add shrimp to the pan with a little oil remaining from frying aromatics. Stir-fry over high heat until the shrimp turn bright red and firm.


Step 3. Create and Incorporate the Sweet and Salty Sauce
- Squeeze the juice from 300g of pineapple.
- Mix sugar, fish sauce, seasoning powder, and chili sauce in a bowl.
- Add the prepared sauce and 100ml of pineapple juice to the pan. Stir well and simmer until the sauce thickens.



Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fried garlic, shallots, and green onions. Serve hot with white rice.

Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Use fresh, live shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinating the shrimp with salt and white wine helps to firm the shrimp and enhance the color.
- Fry the shrimp over high heat to prevent them from shrinking and releasing water.
- Adding pineapple juice adds a unique sweet and sour flavor that balances the salty and spicy elements of the dish.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating. This helps the breading adhere better.
2. How do I store leftover sweet and salty fried shrimp?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or air fryer for best results.
This Sweet and Salty Fried Shrimp recipe is a delightful journey into the vibrant world of Vietnamese cuisine. With its simple preparation and unforgettable flavor, it's sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and prepare to be amazed by this crispy, sweet, and salty delight!