lotus shrimp recipe

How to Make Crispy Chilled Shrimp (Furong Xia)

Furong Xia, or "Hibiscus Shrimp," is a beloved Chinese appetizer known for its crispy texture and refreshing, tangy flavor. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients:

500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails left on), 1 egg white, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 cup ice water, salt, and white pepper to taste. For the sauce: 3 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp sugar, and a pinch of chili flakes (optional).

Steps:

1. Prep the Shrimp: Rinse shrimp and pat dry. Marinate in egg white, salt, and white pepper for 15 minutes.

2. Crispy Coating: In a bowl, mix cornstarch and ice water to form a thin slurry. Dip each shrimp into the slurry, then coat evenly with cornstarch.

3. Deep-Fry: Heat oil to 170°C (340°F). Fry shrimp in small batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

4. Make the Sauce: Whisk mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, and chili flakes until smooth.

5. Serve: Arrange shrimp on a platter, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with lemon wedges or chopped cilantro. Serve chilled for best results.

Tips: For extra crunch, double-coat the shrimp in cornstarrow. Adjust sauce ingredients to your preferred sweetness or spiciness. Enjoy this crispy, zesty treat as a party starter or snack!