Description
Delicious and easy-to-make shrimp cakes that are crispy on the outside and tender inside. These versatile cakes can be pan-fried, baked, or air-fried, making them perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Enhanced with fresh herbs, spices, and a touch of lemon aioli, they offer a flavorful experience that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 pounds raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Lemon Aioli (Optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Cooking Oil
- 2 tablespoons oil (for pan frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw shrimp, breadcrumbs, grated carrot, chopped parsley, freshly grated ginger, egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Chop the Mixture: Transfer the shrimp mixture into a food processor and pulse on and off for about 1 minute until the mixture is coarsely chopped. Alternatively, you can finely chop the shrimp by hand into 1/4-inch pieces and then stir the mixture well.
- Shape the Patties: Take about 1 cup of the mixture at a time and firmly shape it into large patties. You should be able to make approximately 6 large patties. Set the formed patties aside for 5-10 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Cook the Shrimp Cakes - Pan Frying: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 1 minute. Add the shrimp patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove from skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp Cakes - Baking (Alternative): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp cakes on a quarter sheet baking pan. Bake them for 15-17 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning and thorough cooking.
- Cook the Shrimp Cakes - Air Frying (Alternative): Place shrimp cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking oil to coat evenly. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 13-15 minutes or until golden brown and completely cooked through.
- Prepare Lemon Aioli (Optional): In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Serve this as a delicious dipping sauce alongside the shrimp cakes.
- Serve: Plate the shrimp cakes warm with the lemon aioli on the side, perfect for dipping and enhancing the flavor of the cakes.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just make sure they are fully thawed and drained before using.
- Adjust seasoning like salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
- Chilling the patties before cooking can help them hold their shape better.
- Cooking times may vary depending on patty thickness and your equipment, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
- Leftover shrimp cakes can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
