Name: Crispy Shrimp Tempura Burger with Zesty Asian Slaw Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp (Medium-sized, peeled and deveined.); 1 cup All-purpose flour; 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger; 2 tablespoons Chopped Scallion; 1 cup Ice cold water; 2 cups Shredded cabbage (Packaged coleslaw mix can be used.); 1 large Carrot (Grated.); 1 tablespoon Sugar; 2 tablespoons Rice wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Fish sauce; 1 tablespoon Lime juice; 1/4 cup Cilantro leaves (Fresh.); 4 count Hamburger buns (Lightly toasted.); 1 cup Neutral oil (For frying.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce; 1 tablespoon Honey

The moment I took a bite of my first shrimp tempura burger, it felt like a culinary symphony playing in my mouth. Imagine crispy, golden shrimp tempura cradled in a toasted bun, with a zesty Asian slaw and a drizzle of sriracha mayo that dances with each flavor. This shrimp tempura burger is not just a meal; it’s a quick yet impressive dish that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it a stellar option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, the combination of crunch and fresh ingredients creates a delightfully vibrant experience that turns any occasion into a festive feast. Are you ready to transform your dining table with this delicious twist on a classic favorite?

Why will you love this burger?

Quick and Easy: Whip up this impressive burger in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.

Crispy Texture: Enjoy the perfect crunch from the tempura batter, which encases tender shrimp for a delightful contrast.

Zesty Slaw: The vibrant Asian slaw adds not just color, but also a refreshing crunch that elevates the entire dish.

Versatile Serving: Pair your shrimp tempura burger with crispy fries or a light salad for a complete meal experience. If you like shrimp dishes, you might also enjoy this Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Impress your friends and family with this unique twist on a classic burger—they’ll be begging for seconds!

Shrimp Tempura Burger Ingredients

• Discover the key components for a delightful shrimp tempura burger!

For the Tempura Batter

Shrimp – Use medium-sized shrimp for optimal patty formation; chopped larger shrimp can also work.
All-purpose flour – Essential for creating the crispy tempura batter.
Cornstarch – Adds extra crunch to the batter, enhancing texture.
Baking powder – Helps the batter puff up during frying for lightness.
Salt & Black Pepper – Boosts the flavor profile of the tempura.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Infuses depth of flavor into the shrimp.
Ground Ginger – Offers a warm, aromatic note to the batter.
Chopped Scallion – Adds a touch of freshness and mild onion flavor.
Ice cold water – Keeps the batter light and crispy during frying.

For the Slaw

Shredded cabbage – Forms the crunchy slaw base; packaged coleslaw mix is a great substitute.
Carrot – Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the slaw.
Sugar – Balances out the acidity in the dressing for enhanced flavor.
Rice wine vinegar – Provides a delightful tanginess to the slaw mixture.
Fish sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor that enhances the slaw.
Lime juice – Brightens the flavors and adds a citrusy zing.
Cilantro leaves – Fresh herb for a pop of flavor and garnish.

For Assembly

Hamburger buns – Lightly toasted for added texture and support.
Neutral oil – Ideal for shallow frying the shrimp; choose one with a high smoke point.

For the Sriracha Mayo

Mayonnaise – Provides a creamy base for the sriracha sauce.
Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce – Adds heat and a burst of flavor to the mayo.
Honey – Balances out the spices with a hint of sweetness.

Gather these ingredients, and get ready to create a mouthwatering shrimp tempura burger that will leave everyone craving more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Tempura Burger

Step 1: Prepare the Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrot, sugar, rice wine vinegar, fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly coated in the dressing. Set the vibrant slaw aside for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, enhancing its crunchy texture.

Step 2: Make the Tempura Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and chopped scallions. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring until the batter is smooth and lightly lumpy. This shrimp tempura batter should be thick enough to coat the shrimp yet still pourable; set aside while you heat the oil.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Heat about 1 inch of neutral oil in a frying pan over medium heat (approximately 350°F/175°C). Once the oil is shimmering, dip each shrimp into the tempura batter, ensuring it is fully coated, then carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry the shrimp for 2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Burger
Begin by lightly toasting the hamburger buns on a skillet or in a toaster until golden brown. On the bottom half of each bun, generously spread a layer of sriracha mayo for an added kick. Next, top the sauce with several pieces of the crispy shrimp, followed by a hearty scoop of your prepared Asian slaw. Complete with the top bun and press down gently to hold everything together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the assembled shrimp tempura burgers in half for an inviting presentation, and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Pair these delicious burgers with sides like crispy fries or a refreshing salad, making your meal feel complete. Relish the delightful crunch of the shrimp tempura burger as you savor this unique fusion dish!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Tempura Burger

Fridge: Store any leftover shrimp tempura burger components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the crunch of the shrimp and the freshness of the slaw.

Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the uncooked shrimp tempura batter for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer bags for quick use later.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp in a hot pan for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp soggy.

Coleslaw: Keep the Asian slaw separate from the shrimp to ensure it stays fresh. It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Shrimp Tempura Burger Variations

Feel free to customize your shrimp tempura burger to make it truly yours—with each bite, you’ll discover new flavors and textures!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and cornstarch with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a safe and delicious option.
Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter meal, serve the tempura shrimp in crisp lettuce leaves instead of buns.
Veggie Upgrade: Add sliced bell peppers, radishes, or avocado to the slaw for extra color and crunch. The more veggies, the merrier!
Heat Level: Adjust the sriracha in the mayo to make it milder or spicier, ensuring it fits your taste buds perfectly.
Crispy Onion Straws: Top your burger with crispy onion straws for an extra layer of crunch. They bring another flavor dimension that’s utterly irresistible.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple into your slaw for a sweet and tropical note, balancing the savoriness of the shrimp.
Savory Fish Sauce Swap: For a deeper umami flavor, replace part of the mayonnaise with a touch of fish sauce while keeping the sriracha.
Asian Flavors Boost: Try adding sesame oil or rice vinegar to the slaw for a delightful zing that plays beautifully with the other flavors.

Also, if you’re looking for more shrimp inspiration, be sure to check out this delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl recipe or try my Garlic Butter Shrimp for a buttery twist! Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Crispy Shrimp Tempura Burgers?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with the crunch and zest of your shrimp tempura creation.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries contrasts perfectly with the savory shrimp, adding a delightful crunch and a pop of color.
Zesty Asian Noodle Salad: Tossed in a tangy sesame dressing, this salad adds a fresh, vibrant element that complements the burger perfectly.
Mango Salsa: Bright and refreshing, this salsa brings a fruity flavor that enhances the umami notes of the tempura shrimp.
Cucumber Salad: Crisp and cool, it provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the sriracha mayo and fried shrimp.
Garlic Butter Edamame: A bite-sized snack that offers a nutty flavor and a chewy texture, rounding out your meal effortlessly.
Cold Beer or Iced Green Tea: Both beverages cleanse the palate, enhancing the bold flavors of your delicious shrimp tempura burger.

These pairings create a well-rounded meal, ensuring every bite is as enjoyable as the last!

Expert Tips for Shrimp Tempura Burger

Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always use uncooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor in your shrimp tempura burger.
Keep Batter Cold: Ensure your water is ice-cold when making the tempura batter—this helps achieve that light and crispy texture everyone loves.
Batch Frying: To avoid overcrowding the pan, fry shrimp in small batches. This prevents sticking and ensures they cook evenly without becoming greasy.
Oil Temperature Check: Test the frying oil by dropping a bit of batter into it; if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go for frying shrimp!
Toast the Buns: Don’t skip on toasting the hamburger buns; it adds a pleasant texture and prevents sogginess from the mayo and slaw in your shrimp tempura burger.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Shrimp Tempura Burgers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality burgers with minimal effort. You can prepare your Asian slaw and the tempura batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The shrimp can be coated in the batter and kept covered in the fridge for about 2-3 hours before frying. When you’re ready to serve, fry the shrimp until golden brown, assemble your burgers, and enjoy a delightful meal that feels just as fresh as if you made it all in one go!

Shrimp Tempura Burger Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp is best for this burger?
Absolutely! For the best shrimp tempura burger, use medium-sized uncooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp. They are easier to handle and provide the best texture. You can also use larger chopped shrimp if needed, as they can create a heartier patty.

How should I store leftover shrimp tempura burger?
Store any leftover shrimp tempura burger components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days in the fridge. This keeps the shrimp crispy and the slaw fresh. Remember to keep the slaw out of the container with the shrimp to avoid sogginess!

Can I freeze shrimp tempura batter for later use?
Very! You can freeze the uncooked shrimp tempura batter for up to 3 months. Just portion it into freezer bags, pressing out excess air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying!

What if my shrimp tempura batter doesn’t turn out crispy?
If your batter isn’t crispy, it might be either too thick or not cold enough. It’s essential to use ice-cold water when mixing the batter. Make sure to test the frying oil temperature; if it’s not hot enough (about 350°F/175°C), the shrimp will absorb oil, making them soggy. A quick tip is to drop a bit of batter into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, you’re on the right track!

Is this shrimp tempura burger suitable for those with seafood allergies?
Not necessarily. This shrimp tempura burger contains shrimp, which is a common allergen. If you’re serving anyone with seafood allergies, consider offering a different protein option, like chicken or tofu, using the same delicious tempura batter, and adjusting the seasonings accordingly. Always be cautious and check for allergies before serving!