Homemade Shrimp Chips Recipes (Prawn Crackers)

Shrimp chips, or prawn crackers, have a fascinating history rooted in the diverse culinary traditions of Asia, particularly Southeast Asia and East Asia. They might seem like a casual snack today, but these crispy treats have been part of cultural celebrations and everyday life for centuries.

In Indonesia, they were known as krupuk udang, made from fresh shrimp and tapioca, lovingly dried in the sun before being fried to crispy perfection. These simple yet flavorful crackers became a beloved staple at family meals, celebrations, and street corners alike.

Meanwhile, in China, shrimp chips, or xia pian, were served during festive occasions like Lunar New Year, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. They weren’t just a snack; they were a symbol of sharing and joy, passed around to bring families together.

As time passed, these chips traveled far beyond Asia, making their way into kitchens across the world. From Vietnam to Europe and North America, shrimp chips became a global favorite. Yet, no matter how far they traveled, each bite still carried the rich history of their origins—tied to cultures where every part of the shrimp was used and cherished.

So, the next time you crunch into a shrimp chip, remember you’re savoring a snack with a story—one that has connected families, crossed borders, and brought people together for centuries.

Ingredients Involved In Making Of Shrimp Chips

Shrimp chips, also known as prawn crackers, are made from a few simple ingredients that combine to create their signature crispy texture and savory flavor. The basic ingredients involved in making shrimp chips are:

Shrimp or Prawn: Fresh or dried shrimp is the primary flavoring ingredient. It’s ground into a paste or powder to give the chips their distinctive seafood taste.
Tapioca Starch: Tapioca starch is used to bind the ingredients together and give the chips their light, crispy texture when fried. It’s key to the characteristic puffiness.
Water: Water is mixed with the shrimp paste and starch to form a dough.
Salt: A small amount of salt is added for seasoning.
Sugar: Sugar is sometimes added to balance the salty and savory flavors.
Optional Flavorings: Some recipes may include additional seasonings like pepper, garlic powder, or MSG to enhance the flavor.

These ingredients are combined into a dough, which is then shaped, dried (often sun-dried), and fried until the chips puff up into light, crispy snacks.

How To Make Shrimp Chips At Home

Instructions:

Always choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If you are using fresh shrimp then you need to make sure they are cleaned properly. Gently pull the vein out with your fingers or the tip of the knife. If it breaks, use the knife to remove any remaining pieces. After deveining, give the shrimp another rinse under cold water to ensure any remaining bits are cleaned away.

1. Prepare the Shrimp Paste:

If using fresh shrimp: Blend the shrimp in a food processor until it forms a smooth paste.
If using dried shrimp: Soak the shrimp in warm water for 10–15 minutes to soften them, then blend them into a paste.

2. Make the Dough:

In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp paste, tapioca starch, salt, and sugar.
Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until it forms a firm dough. Adjust the water as needed to ensure it isn’t too sticky.

3. Shape the Dough:

Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into logs about 1 inch in diameter.
Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper to hold its shape.

4. Steam the Logs:

Steam the wrapped logs in a steamer for about 30–45 minutes until they become firm and cooked through.
Remove from the steamer and let them cool completely. You can refrigerate them for a few hours to help with slicing later.

5. Slice the Logs:

Once cooled, slice the logs into thin discs, about 1–2 mm thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier they’ll be when fried.

6. Dry the Slices:

Lay the slices out in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray.
Sun-dry the slices for 1–2 days until they are completely dry and hard. Alternatively, you can dry them in an oven at the lowest setting for a few hours.

7. Fry the Chips:

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to about 350°F (175°C).
Fry the dried slices in small batches. They’ll puff up quickly in just a few seconds, so remove them as soon as they float to the surface and puff up.
Drain the chips on paper towels to remove excess oil.

8. Serve:

Let the shrimp chips cool completely before serving. They can be stored in an airtight container for several weeks.

Enjoy your homemade shrimp chips with dipping sauces or as a crunchy snack on their own!

Best Seasoning That Can Go With Shrimp Chips

When it comes to enjoying shrimp chips, the right seasoning can take these crispy treats to a whole new level. Here are some of the best seasonings and flavors to consider that will perfectly complement the shrimp’s savory goodness:

Salt: Most subtle and the iconic taste can be achieved with just a pinch of salt and you can never be wrong with this combination.
Black pepper: Want something warm and complex then add back pepper.
Garlic Powder: This is a must for any shrimp lover! Garlic powder gives the chips a savory, aromatic punch that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
Onion Powder: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the savory notes.
Paprika: Whether you choose sweet or smoked paprika, this spice not only adds a mild sweetness but also a lovely color to your chips.
Cayenne Pepper: For those who enjoy a kick, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper provides just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the shrimp flavor.
Lemon Zest: Brighten up your shrimp chips with a touch of lemon zest. It adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the savory aspects perfectly.
Chili Powder: A blend of spices that brings a little heat and a lot of flavor. Chili powder can elevate your shrimp chips, giving them an exciting twist.

Ideal Pairings for Prawn Crackers

Prawn crackers are deliciously crispy and versatile, making them a great addition to various meals and snacks. Here are some tasty options to pair with your prawn crackers:

Seafood Dishes: Complement seafood dishes, such as grilled fish or shrimp, with prawn crackers for a cohesive seafood-themed meal.
Cheese Platters: Include prawn crackers on a cheese platter alongside creamy cheeses, olives, and nuts for a delightful snack.
Soups: Use prawn crackers as a crunchy topping for soups, especially Asian soups like wonton or hot and sour soup.
Dipping Sauces: Serve prawn crackers with a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy sambal for an added kick.
Curries: Pair prawn crackers with flavorful curries, such as Thai green curry or Indian butter chicken, to scoop up the rich, saucy goodness.

Prawn crackers can be a fun and versatile addition to your dining experience, enhancing various dishes with their unique flavor and texture! You can even combine them with salt and vinegar chips and add some seasoning over it and easily enjoy it with a cocktail or a crisp beer.