Shrimp Cakes are a delightful seafood dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. These golden-brown morsels are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, made with fresh shrimp, breadcrumbs, and a blend of herbs and spices. Perfect as a starter or a main course, shrimp cakes are not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making them an appealing option for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this shrimp cakes recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The combination of fresh shrimp, fragrant herbs, and zesty seasonings creates a dish that is both satisfying and light, perfect for those looking to indulge without the heaviness of traditional fried foods. Moreover, this recipe is adaptable for various diets, making it suitable for pescatarians and those seeking a healthier seafood option. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet without a lot of fuss.
Tips and Tricks
- Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp rather than frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and well-drained.
- Pulsing Shrimp: When processing the shrimp, pulse until they are finely chopped but not pureed. This will ensure a nice texture in your cakes.
- Chill the Mixture: Allowing the shrimp mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the cakes hold their shape during cooking.
- Pan-Frying: For an extra crispy exterior, preheat your skillet before adding the cakes, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to make the shrimp cakes in advance, shape them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. They can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure they are properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Shrimp Cakes: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or dill for a unique flavor profile.
- Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the shrimp cakes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate finely diced bell peppers, green onions, or corn for extra texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve your shrimp cakes hot off the skillet, garnished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Pair them with a zesty remoulade or tartar sauce on the side for dipping. Accompany with a fresh salad or coleslaw for a refreshing crunch and a pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions
These shrimp cakes pair beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, fruity rosé. If you prefer cocktails, a classic mojito or a citrusy gin and tonic would complement the flavors nicely. For sides, consider serving with a light cucumber salad or a creamy avocado dip.
How to Store
Leftover shrimp cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap individual cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. For reheating, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Equipment Needed
- Food Processor: To finely chop the shrimp and mix the batter.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet or cast iron pan is ideal for frying.
- Baking Sheet: For chilling the cakes if preparing ahead.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula will help flip the cakes without breaking them.
Dietary Adaptations
To make these shrimp cakes gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. For a dairy-free version, ensure any sauces served alongside do not contain dairy, and opt for vegan mayo in remoulade if desired. Those with shellfish allergies can try using crab or a plant-based alternative.
Seasonal Adaptations
During the summer months, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or tarragon. In fall, you can spice them up with a pinch of nutmeg or serve with a warm apple slaw. In winter, add some roasted red peppers for warmth and color.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly.
- What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? You can use crushed crackers, panko, or even ground oats.
- How long do these take to cook? Each cake should take about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Shrimp Cakes
Shrimp Cakes are a delightful seafood dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until finely chopped but not pureed.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg,
- Dijon mustard, green onions, garlic, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Form the shrimp mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Cook the shrimp cakes in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 391Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 292mgSodium 1707mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 32g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making shrimp cakes is not only a rewarding culinary experience but also a journey into flavors that can be adapted to suit any palate. Whether you enjoy them as a light meal or a party appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy these delightful, homemade shrimp cakes!
