When the sun dips below the horizon and the scent of a bustling kitchen fills the air, I find myself drawn to one dish in particular: Shrimp in a Blanket. This delightful Thai appetizer beckons with its golden, crispy exterior and savory filling, making it an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, whether you opt for the traditional combination of shrimp and marinated pork or stick to a simpler seafood-only version.
Imagine biting into one of these crunchy parcels, the textures harmonizing beautifully while the flavors of garlic and cilantro dance on your palate. With just a few ingredients and a dash of enthusiasm, you can impress your family and friends with this tantalizing treat. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this recipe won’t just spice up your meal; it will make you the star of the evening. Let’s dive into how you can create your own Shrimp in a Blanket and elevate your home-cooked dining experience!
Why will you love Shrimp in a Blanket?
Versatile & Customizable: Whether you prefer the traditional pork and shrimp or the lighter shrimp-only option, this recipe caters to all tastes.
Quick Preparation: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you’ll have this crowd-pleaser ready in no time.
Crispy Delight: The golden, crunchy exterior perfectly contrasts the juicy and flavorful filling, making every bite a delightful experience.
Perfect for Parties: Serve them as finger food at gatherings, and watch your guests eagerly reach for more!
Freezer Friendly: Prep these ahead of time, and just fry straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve. Check out our tips on storage and make-ahead for more helpful ideas!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Each bite is not only delicious but also a light snack, approximately 90 calories, making it a satisfying option without the heaviness.
Discover Shrimp in a Blanket Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; substitute with shallots if necessary.
• Cilantro Root – Provides earthy undertones unique to Thai cuisine; use cilantro stems as a substitute.
• White Pepper Powder – Adds spice without overpowering flavor; can use black pepper for a stronger taste.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; ensure it’s measured accurately to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Sugar – Balances flavors; not overly sweet; use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
For the Filling
• Pork (minced) – Gives a complex flavor and texture; can be substituted with ground chicken or omitted for a shrimp-only version.
• Shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail on) – Main protein component; freshly sourced shrimp enhances taste; frozen works too.
For Wrapping
• Spring Roll Wrappers – Creates the ‘blanket’ around shrimp; use rice paper as a gluten-free alternative.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for the pork mixture and a sealing agent for the wrappers; use a flax egg for a vegan version.
For Frying
• Canola Oil – Used for frying to ensure a crispy texture; any neutral oil can work, such as vegetable or peanut oil.
Prepare these straightforward ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating mouthwatering Shrimp in a Blanket!
How to Make Shrimp in a Blanket
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Heat Oil: Preheat canola oil in a large pot to 350°F. Proper oil temperature is essential for achieving that irresistible crispy texture in just about 3 minutes.
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Prepare Marinade: Use a mortar and pestle or a food processor to pound the garlic, cilantro root, white pepper, salt, and sugar together until you achieve a smooth paste. This delightful aromatic mixture will elevate the flavor of your filling.
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Make Pork Spread: In a food processor, blend the minced pork with 1 tablespoon of beaten egg and the prepared marinade until smooth. This luscious filling is where the magic begins!
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Prepare Shrimp: Score the underside of the shrimp by making three shallow cuts; this will help the shrimp wrap easily and ensure they cook perfectly.
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Wrap: Cut spring roll wrappers into triangles. Spread a generous amount of the pork mixture on one half of each triangle, place the shrimp in the center, then fold and seal with a little beaten egg.
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Fry: Carefully drop the wrapped shrimp into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Watch them bubble away to perfection!
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Serve: Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve your delicious Shrimp in a Blanket with a side of Thai dipping sauce (nam jim gai) and crisp cucumber slices.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp in a Blanket are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the wrapped shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. If you want to prep further ahead, freeze the un-fried wrappers for up to 3 months; they can go straight into hot oil from the freezer without thawing, ensuring a crispy treat every time. When it’s time to serve, simply fry them in hot oil until golden brown, which takes about 3 minutes. By prepping ahead, you save precious time and enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality appetizers with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Shrimp in a Blanket
- Oil Temperature: Always maintain oil at 350°F for the best frying results. Lower temperatures can lead to greasy, soggy wrappers.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry just a few at a time; too many will drop the oil temperature, and you’ll miss that perfect crunch.
- Prep Ahead: You can freeze un-fried shrimp in a blanket. Fry directly from the freezer for a quick and easy appetizer.
- Scoring the Shrimp: Score the shrimp lightly before wrapping. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and makes wrapping easier.
- Sealing Technique: Ensure your wrappers are sealed well with beaten egg to prevent any filling from leaking during frying.
- Dipping Sauce: Pair your shrimp in a blanket with a zesty Thai dipping sauce to enhance your flavorful treat!
What to Serve with Shrimp in a Blanket?
Elevate your next gathering by pairing these delightful bites with complementary sides and beverages that tantalize the taste buds.
- Crispy Thai Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing that cuts through the richness of the shrimp.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This sweet and spicy dipping sauce adds an extra kick and perfectly balances the savory flavors of the shrimp.
- Coconut Rice: The creamy coconut-infused rice is a comforting base that enhances the exotic flavor of the dish. It creates a luscious pairing experience.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: For those craving more shrimp, these skewers with a hint of smokiness complement the wrapper’s crunch wonderfully.
- Mango Salad: The bright and fruity notes of mango salad provide a flavor contrast that freshens up each bite of the crispy appetizer.
- Thai Iced Tea: Cool and sweet, this classic beverage beautifully complements the bold flavors of your shrimp in a blanket.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Keep the theme going with these light and crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies, adding texture and variety to your spread.
- Peanut Sauce: Rich and nutty, this sauce makes an indulgent dip that enhances the flavor profile while offering a creamy contrast.
- Cucumber Slices: Crisp and refreshing, they cleanse the palate perfectly between bites, keeping the flavor delightful without being overwhelming.
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp in a Blanket
Fridge: Store leftover Shrimp in a Blanket in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: For best results, freeze un-fried wrapped shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen without thawing.
Reheating: If you’ve saved some fried shrimp, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore crunchiness. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp in a Blanket just like fresh!
Preparation Ahead: Wrap them ahead of time and keep them ready in the freezer, perfect for spontaneous gatherings or relaxed evenings.
Shrimp in a Blanket Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you customize this delicious dish!
- Pork-Free: Omit minced pork entirely for a lighter shrimp-only version. It’s just as flavorful!
- Crab Variation: Swap shrimp for crab meat for a lavish twist that sea lovers will adore.
- Herb Mix: Enhance the filling by adding fragrant herbs like Thai basil or mint for a fresh aromatic punch.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate finely chopped Thai chili or red pepper flakes into the mixture for an exciting heat level.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add a sprinkle of cream cheese or mozzarella into the filling for a creamy texture. This creates a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace protein with minced mushrooms or tofu, seasoned with the marinade, for a satisfying vegetarian take.
- Sweet Surprise: Toss in finely diced bell peppers or a touch of pineapple for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory filling.
- Crispy Texture: For extra crunch, coat wrapped shrimp in panko breadcrumbs before frying, giving it an irresistible crunch!
Enjoy exploring these variations that will keep your guests coming back for more!
Shrimp in a Blanket Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh shrimp that are firm to the touch with a slight ocean scent. Look for shrimp that are transparent with a little shine—avoid those with dark spots or a strong fishy odor. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, high-quality frozen shrimp will also work beautifully; just be sure to thaw them properly before use.
What is the best way to store leftover Shrimp in a Blanket?
Very good question! Leftover Shrimp in a Blanket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy texture, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F for around 10 minutes or until heated through. This way, they’ll regain their crunch!
Can I freeze un-fried Shrimp in a Blanket? How?
Absolutely! To freeze un-fried wrapped shrimp, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. After they’re frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen without thawing—skip the wait and enjoy!
What should I do if my wrappers keep tearing?
Great question! If your spring roll wrappers are tearing, it might be due to them being too dry. To fix this, keep the wrappers covered with a damp cloth as you work. If you’re having a tough time, consider using rice paper, which can be more forgiving and easier to handle, especially for beginners!
Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes, definitely! If you or your guests have allergies, it’s important to consider that this recipe contains shellfish. For those who are gluten-sensitive, choose gluten-free spring roll wrappers, or substitute with rice paper. Additionally, for a vegan version, you could omit the pork and replace the egg with a flax egg, which is easy to make by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water—let it sit until it thickens!
Can I use different fillings for Shrimp in a Blanket?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize the filling based on your preference. You can easily swap out the pork for ground chicken, crab, or even a mix of vegetables. Incorporating different herbs such as Thai basil or mint can elevate the flavor profile and keep things exciting!
Delicious Shrimp in a Blanket: Your New Favorite Appetizer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat canola oil in a large pot to 350°F.
- Use a mortar and pestle or a food processor to pound the garlic, cilantro root, white pepper, salt, and sugar together until you achieve a smooth paste.
- In a food processor, blend the minced pork with 1 tablespoon of beaten egg and the prepared marinade until smooth.
- Score the underside of the shrimp by making three shallow cuts.
- Cut spring roll wrappers into triangles. Spread a generous amount of the pork mixture on one half of each triangle, place the shrimp in the center, then fold and seal with a little beaten egg.
- Carefully drop the wrapped shrimp into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
- Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve your delicious Shrimp in a Blanket with a side of Thai dipping sauce and crisp cucumber slices.