Dynamite Recipe

Shrimp: peeled and deveined shrimp are the main protein, making the dish light and tasty.

Mayonnaise: adds creaminess and helps the sauce stick to the shrimp.

Sriracha: a spicy chili sauce that gives the dish its signature kick.

Lemon juice: fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the spice.

Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that create a crispy coating.

Salt: enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: freshly ground for a bit of warmth and depth.

One of the most important steps in this Dynamite Recipe is coating the shrimp evenly with the sauce before adding the breadcrumbs. Here’s how to do it so every bite is full of flavor and crunch:

1. Put the peeled and deveined shrimp in a big enough bowl so they can move around.
2. Pour the mayonnaise, sriracha, and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the shrimp.
3. Use a spoon or your hands to gently toss the shrimp in the sauce until each one is covered. Try not to squish them!
4. Make sure you scrape the sides of the bowl so no shrimp is left dry.

Doing this step carefully means the shrimp will have a nice, spicy, and creamy coating that helps the panko breadcrumbs stick better. When the shrimp bake, the sauce keeps them juicy inside while the breadcrumbs get golden and crispy on the outside. If you skip this, the breadcrumbs might fall off or the shrimp could turn out dry.

I remember the first time I made this, I didn’t mix the shrimp well enough, and some bites were plain and boring. Now, I always take a little extra time to coat them evenly—it really makes a difference. Also, if you want to save time, you can use your hands to toss the shrimp quickly, but just be gentle so they don’t break. This little trick makes the whole cooking process smoother and tastier!

• shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can mimic the texture and absorb the flavors well, making it a good alternative for those who do not eat seafood.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess while being lower in fat and calories.

• sriracha - Substitute with hot sauce: Any hot sauce can be used to provide the necessary heat and spice, though the flavor profile may vary slightly.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a suitable replacement.

• panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes can provide a similar crunchy texture and are a good gluten-free alternative.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add both saltiness and umami, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the panko breadcrumbs soggy.

• Transfer the cooled shrimp to an airtight container. If stacking, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to maintain their crispiness.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the dynamite shrimp within 2-3 days. For longer storage, move to the freezer.

• For freezing, arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 180°c (350°f). Place the frozen shrimp on a baking tray and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• Alternatively, you can reheat in an air fryer at 180°c (350°f) for 8-10 minutes for a quicker option.

• Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the breadcrumbs soggy.

• Serve immediately after reheating with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place the leftover shrimp on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  3. Lightly spray or brush the shrimp with a bit of olive oil to help retain moisture.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the shrimp in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place the shrimp on a toaster oven tray.
  3. Heat for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are hot and crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the shrimp at a high temperature to achieve a golden and crispy texture.

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice, as well as for coating the shrimp with the sauce.

• Baking tray: Holds the shrimp while they bake in the oven, ensuring they cook evenly.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the mayonnaise and panko breadcrumbs accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the sriracha, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the shrimp while coating them with the breadcrumb mixture and for placing them on the baking tray.

• Whisk: Helps to mix the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice thoroughly.

• Knife: Useful for slicing the lemon to extract fresh lemon juice.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the lemon.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking tray with parchment paper prevents the shrimp from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Peel and devein the shrimp ahead of time to save minutes during cooking.

Use pre-made sauce: Substitute homemade mayonnaise and sriracha mix with a store-bought spicy mayo to cut down on prep time.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping the ingredients to ensure it’s ready when you are.

Line the baking tray: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking tray for easy cleanup and quicker transfer of shrimp.

Organize your workspace: Arrange all ingredients and tools within reach to streamline the cooking process.