Crispy Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps Just Like a Chef’s Secret

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Leonardo Recipes Team

The sound of sizzling prawns in the pan instantly transports me to sun-soaked coastal evenings, where the air is filled with delightful spices and laughter. Recently, I found myself craving something exciting and flavorful, yet quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. This is when my Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps recipe was born a perfect solution to shake off the monotony of fast food.

Not only do these crispy prawns bring a satisfying crunch, but they also marry beautifully with a zesty slaw and a creamy, spicy mayo that makes every bite a delightful affair. The best part? You can have this stunning dish ready in no time, impressing your family or guests without the fuss. So, if you re looking to elevate your dinner game and indulge in homemade goodness, let s dive in and turn your kitchen into a vibrant culinary haven!

Why is Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps a Game Changer?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is designed for those bustling weeknights when you want something delicious without hours in the kitchen.

Crispy Perfection: Each prawn is perfectly coated, offering a satisfying crunch that s irresistible.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy mayo and tangy slaw creates an unforgettable depth of flavor that elevates your meal.

Versatile Delight: Serve this dish as an appetizer or a main course, making it perfect for any occasion.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with restaurant-quality prawns right at home. You can also check out my Homemade Kewpie Mayo for even more flavor!

Unique Experience: Skip the fast food rut and indulge in a fresh, homemade take on a beloved dish.

Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps Ingredients

For the Prawns
1 lb prawns choose large, fresh prawns for the best flavor and texture.
2 tablespoon potato starch helps create that irresistible crisp on the prawns.
1 teaspoon garlic powder adds a flavor depth that pairs beautifully with seafood.
1 teaspoon turmeric offers a warm color and earthy taste that elevates the dish.
1 teaspoon pepper for a light kick of heat to complement the spices.
1 teaspoon salt essential for enhancing all the flavors in this spicy shrimp recipe.
4 tablespoon oil use a high smoke point oil to achieve that perfect golden crisp.

For the Spicy Mayo
1 tablespoon kewpie mayo this brings a unique umami flavor that s hard to resist.
1 tablespoon sriracha adjust to your heat preference for the perfect spicy kick.
1 teaspoon honey balances the spiciness with a touch of sweetness.
1 teaspoon sesame oil adds a nutty finish that deepens the flavor profile.

For the Rice Crisps and Slaw
4 rice paper use fresh, thin rice paper for a delightful crunch.
4 tablespoon grapeseed oil ideal for frying, as it withstands high heat beautifully.
½ cabbage shredded for a crunchy, refreshing contrast in the slaw.
3 tablespoon rice vinegar brings tanginess to balance the richness of the prawns.
3 tablespoon soy sauce adds savory depth and enhances the slaw s flavor.
1 tablespoon sesame oil complements the cabbage with rich, nutty notes.
1 tablespoon sugar a pinch of sweetness ties all the slaw ingredients together.
black sesame seeds for a crunchy garnish that adds visual appeal.
green onions chopped to add a fresh bite and a pop of color.

With these ingredients, you re just moments away from making your culinary masterpiece of spicy shrimp with rice crisps!

How to Make Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps

1. Mix the Coating: In a bowl, stir together the potato starch, garlic powder, turmeric, pepper, and salt. This flavorful mixture will give your prawns a beautiful, crispy texture as they fry.

2. Coat the Prawns: Take your fresh prawns and generously coat them with the potato starch mixture. Ensure they are fully covered for that perfect crunch.

3. Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat 4 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Wait until it s shimmering, indicating it s ready for frying your prawns.

4. Fry the Prawns: Carefully add the coated prawns to the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

5. Prepare the Spicy Mayo: In a separate bowl, combine kewpie mayo, sriracha, honey, and sesame oil. Whisk everything together until smooth for a tasty dipping sauce.

6. Crisp the Rice Paper: In the same frying pan, add grapeseed oil and heat it up. Fry the rice paper for a few seconds until crispy and puffed, then remove it and set aside.

7. Make the Sesame Slaw: In another bowl, mix shredded cabbage, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss well until everything is combined and the cabbage is nicely dressed.

8. Assemble the Dish: To serve, layer the crispy prawns on the rice paper shells. Top with the sesame cabbage slaw, then drizzle generously with spicy mayo. Garnish with black sesame seeds and green onions for a delightful finish.

Optional: Serve with extra spicy mayo on the side for those who love a bit more heat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crispy Prawns?

Enhance your meal with delightful sides that complement the savory crunch of these prawns and add a touch of freshness to the plate.

• Sesame Cabbage Slaw: This zesty slaw, made with crunchy cabbage and a tangy dressing, brightens up every bite and balances the rich flavors of the prawns.

• Coconut Rice: A fragrant and creamy coconut-infused rice is a wonderful side that adds a touch of tropical sweetness, perfectly offsetting the spicy notes.

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, sweet potato fries bring a hearty texture and a subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the savory prawns.

• Garlic Noodles: Soft, buttery garlic noodles offer a comforting contrast to the crunch and spice, making it a delightful pairing for a complete meal.

• Mango Salsa: A fresh and fruity mango salsa adds a burst of tropical flavor and vibrant color, complementing the prawns while refreshing the palate.

• Chili Lime Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with chili lime butter adds a fun, summery vibe, enhancing the flavorful experience with every bite.

• Cold Beer or Sparkling Water: Pair with a cold, crisp lager or sparkling water to cleanse your palate, elevating your dining experience while enjoying a light, zesty bite.

Expert Tips for Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps

• Prawn Selection: Always choose fresh, high-quality prawns for the best flavor. Frozen prawns can work, but ensure they are well-thawed and drained.

• Coating Consistency: Make sure to coat the prawns evenly in the potato starch mixture. This will prevent any sogginess and ensure they fry up crispy.

• Oil Temperature: Test the oil s heat before adding the prawns. If it s too hot, the prawns may burn; if it s not hot enough, they ll absorb too much oil.

• Rice Paper Frying: Fry the rice paper quickly to avoid a chewy texture. A few seconds per side is all it takes watch closely!

• Slaw Balance: Taste your sesame cabbage slaw as you mix; adjust the vinegar and sugar for your preferred level of tanginess and sweetness.

• Serving Style: Serve the crispy prawns in rice paper shells while still warm. This enhances the texture and ensures your Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps remains an unforgettable dish!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps

Fridge: Store leftover spicy shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, separate the prawns from the slaw and mayo.

Freezer: If you want to freeze, place the cooled, cooked prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat shrimp in an oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 10 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery.

Crisp Recovery: If you ve stored your prawns in the fridge and want to restore their crunch, quick pan-frying for 2-3 minutes can work wonders!

Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these exciting twists!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure the rice paper is gluten-free for a suitable option.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap prawns for tofu or cauliflower, which can absorb the flavor wonderfully and get crispy too.

• Extra Spicy: Add minced jalapeños to the spicy mayo for an extra kick, bringing a fiery dimension to every bite.

• Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the slaw for a vibrant, aromatic flavor that dances on your palate.

• Citrus Zest: Incorporate a splash of lime or lemon juice in the mayo or slaw for a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.

• Coconut Delight: Use coconut milk in the slaw dressing for a subtle sweetness and tropical twist that enhances the overall profile.

• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews on top for extra crunch and a delightful contrast to the soft slaw and prawns.

• Asian Fusion: Add chili flakes to the slaw for an added crunch and heat, creating a fusion twist that can elevate the flavors further.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Shrimp with Rice Crisps are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor delightful flavors on busy weeknights! You can coat the prawns and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; this will help the spices deeply penetrate the shrimp. The spicy mayo can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring you have it ready for serving. The rice paper can be fried a few hours in advance; just keep them stored in an airtight container to maintain crispiness. When it s time to serve, simply fry the prawns to golden perfection, assemble, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Crispy Prawns Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh prawns?
Absolutely! When selecting prawns, look for those that are firm to the touch and have a clean, ocean-like scent. Fresh prawns should have a translucent appearance and a firm flesh. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as these indicate they may not be fresh.

What s the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Place any leftover spicy shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days to ensure freshness. Make sure to separate the prawns from the cabbage slaw and mayo to keep everything from getting soggy.

Can I freeze the crispy prawns?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cooked prawns to cool completely first. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. After they re frozen, transfer the prawns to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and store for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven for the best crispiness.

What if my prawns don t turn out crispy?
Don t worry! If your prawns are not crispy, they might have absorbed too much oil or not been coated evenly. For a quick fix, try reheating them in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to help regain their crunch.

Is this recipe suitable for allergies?
Great question! This recipe contains shellfish, which is a common allergen. Additionally, if you re concerned about gluten, ensure you are using gluten-free soy sauce. Also, if you have specific dietary needs, look for alternatives to ingredients like honey and mayo, or use vegan substitutes. Always consult with a health professional if you re unsure about any allergies.

How can I make this dish healthier?
Certainly! To lighten up this recipe, consider using less oil for frying or try baking the prawns instead. Simply place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake at 425 °F (220 °C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor!