Crispy Thai Butterflied Shrimp

A vibrant and flavorful Thai appetizer, Crispy Thai Butterflied Shrimp features succulent shrimp coated in a fragrant garlic-cilantro paste, lightly dusted with cornstarch, and fried to a golden crisp. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish delivers an authentic Thai taste with a delightful crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and quick—ready in under 15 minutes.
Made with just six pantry-friendly ingredients.
Crispy, golden coating with juicy, tender shrimp inside.
Beautiful butterflied presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.
Easily adaptable for spicier or gluten-free versions.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large shrimp or prawns, peeled, deveined, tail-on, and butterflied
Garlic cloves
Cilantro stalks (not the leaves)
Cornstarch
Salt
Black pepper

directions

Prepare the shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact. Butterfly each shrimp by slicing down the back without cutting all the way through, then gently press flat.
Make the paste: Using a mortar and pestle or food processor, grind the garlic, cilantro stalks, salt, and pepper into a coarse paste.
Season and coat: Rub the garlic-cilantro paste onto each butterflied shrimp. Lightly dust all sides with cornstarch to coat evenly.
Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
Drain and serve: Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with Thai sweet chili sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 15 shrimp; serves 2–4 as an appetizer.
Prep time: 7 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add finely chopped Thai chili or red pepper flakes to the garlic paste.
Alternative coating: Substitute rice flour or tapioca starch for cornstarch.
Baked option: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 8–10 minutes, optionally broiling for the last 1–2 minutes.
Air-fryer method: Lightly spray coated shrimp with oil and air-fry at 200°C for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
Flavor twist: Add grated ginger or lemongrass to the paste for added complexity.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in an air fryer at 180°C for 2–3 minutes or in an oven at 160°C for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

What size shrimp is best for butterflying?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best, as they’re easier to butterfly and hold their shape when cooked.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking for optimal texture.

Why use cilantro stalks instead of leaves?

Cilantro stalks are more aromatic and flavorful, making them ideal for this type of paste.

Can I deep-fry instead of pan-fry?

Yes, deep-frying gives an extra crispy result. Just be sure not to overcrowd the oil.

How do I butterfly shrimp correctly?

Slice down the back of the shrimp, stopping just before cutting through, and press it flat gently.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Sweet chili sauce, tamarind dipping sauce, or a citrus-soy mix all work beautifully.

How do I prevent overcooking?

Fry just until the shrimp turns pink and curls slightly—usually 2–3 minutes per side is sufficient.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use cornstarch or rice flour and serve with a gluten-free dipping sauce.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp and paste ahead, but for best texture, fry them just before serving.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes. Bake at 200°C for 8–10 minutes and broil briefly at the end for added crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Thai Butterflied Shrimp is a quick and elegant appetizer bursting with Thai flavors. With a crunchy exterior, juicy interior, and eye-catching presentation, it’s perfect for gatherings or a flavorful snack. Versatile and easy to make, this dish brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen with minimal effort.