Irresistible Salted Egg Shrimp: A Crispy Home Delight
Last Updated on March 4, 2026 by Stella Recipes
When the weekend rolls around, there s nothing quite like the joy of preparing a delicious meal to share with family or friends. That s exactly how I felt the first time I made crispy salted egg shrimp, inspired by the vibrant flavors of Malaysian Chinese cuisine. The moment I took that first bite the crunch of the double-fried shrimp enveloped in a rich, creamy salted egg yolk sauce I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. Whether you re throwing together a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe fits the bill. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple cooking methods deep-frying, pan-frying, or even steaming you can achieve an irresistible flavor that beckons you back for seconds. Let me show you how to whip up this delectable salted egg shrimp that promises to elevate any dining experience with its comforting, aromatic allure.
Why is Salted Egg Shrimp so irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: The combination of buttery salted egg yolks and aromatic spices creates a rich, savory sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Crispy Perfection: Double-frying ensures a golden-brown, crispy exterior while keeping the shrimp tender inside.
Versatile Cooking: Whether you prefer deep-frying, pan-frying, or steaming, this recipe adapts to your available cooking methods.
Impressive Presentation: Garnished with sliced chili and fragrant curry leaves, it s a dish that dazzles guests and family alike.
Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting and Indulgent: This dish brings warmth and nostalgia, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or cozy family dinners.
Salted Egg Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
Prawns 500g raw prawns (deveined and shelled) add a sweet flavor and protein, so freshness is key for the best taste.
Cornflour 2 tablespoons ensure a crispy coating when deep-fried; you can substitute it with rice flour for a gluten-free option.
For the Sauce
Butter 30g adds richness to the salted egg sauce; use a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version.
Garlic 2 tablespoons (chopped) provide aromatic flavor and depth; fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
Salted Egg Yolks 4 yolks are the key ingredient providing that distinctive buttery flavor; they need to be steamed until cooked for the best texture.
Sugar 1 teaspoon helps balance the flavors in the sauce; feel free to use honey or agave syrup as alternatives if desired.
Salt 1 teaspoon enhances overall flavor; adjust according to personal taste.
Ground White Pepper 1/4 teaspoon adds a mild spiciness; you can swap it with black pepper if you prefer.
Cooking Wine 1 tablespoon enhances the flavor; for a non-alcoholic version, you can use water or broth instead.
For the Aromatics
Red Bird s Eye Chili 1 pepper, sliced adds heat and visual appeal; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
Curry Leaves 2 stalks impart a unique fragrance and flavor; if unavailable, you can replace them with bay leaves.
How to Make Salted Egg Shrimp
Prepare the shrimp: Begin by removing the heads and shells from the prawns, then devein them. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel, then season with salt and ground white pepper. Set aside for about 10 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
Steam the salted egg yolks: Place the salted egg yolks in a steamer and steam for approximately 7 minutes until fully cooked. Once cooked, mash the yolks into a smooth paste and set aside.
Heat the oil: In a wok, heat oil over medium heat. Just before frying, coat the seasoned shrimp with 2 tablespoons of cornflour to ensure a crispy finish.
First fry: Carefully deep-fry the shrimp in the hot oil until they are cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove and let them rest on a paper towel for a few minutes.
Second fry: Return the shrimp to the oil for a second fry, cooking until they are golden brown and perfectly crispy. Drain the shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Saut the aromatics: In a clean pan, melt 30g of butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and curry leaves, saut ing until fragrant about 1-2 minutes.
Combine with yolk: Stir in the mashed salted egg yolks to the saut ed aromatics. Let the mixture cook until it starts bubbling, creating a creamy sauce full of flavor.
Finish the dish: Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground white pepper. Return the crispy shrimp to the pan and toss them in the sauce until fully coated.
Add the final touch: Splash in 1 tablespoon of cooking wine and garnish with slices of red chili before serving.
Optional: Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Salted Egg Shrimp Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this delicious dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs!
Protein Swap: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit different dietary preferences; both work beautifully in this rich sauce.
Colorful Veggie Addition: Add bell peppers or snap peas for a burst of color and nutrition; they ll add crunch and freshness to every bite.
Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding more red Bird s Eye chili or a dash of chili flakes for that extra kick everyone craves.
Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh basil or cilantro instead of curry leaves for a fragrant twist that brightens up the dish.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical flair, mix in a spoonful of coconut cream to the sauce for added richness and a hint of sweetness.
Air-Fryer Option: If you prefer a healthier version, try cooking the shrimp in an air fryer; they ll be crispy with less oil while maintaining great flavor.
Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the flavors; it provides a delightful zing that balances the richness.
Rice Flour Coating: Use rice flour instead of cornflour for a gluten-free crispy coating with a slightly different texture; it s a perfect alternative!
What to Serve with Crispy Salted Egg Shrimp?
A delightful meal awaits as you prepare to pair this rich and flavorful shrimp dish with sides that enhance its enticing taste.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice perfectly absorbs the creamy salted egg yolk sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The subtle sweetness of jasmine rice complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Adding fresh, crisp bok choy brings a vibrant crunch and brightness to your table. Toss it with garlic and a splash of soy sauce to create a balance of textures and flavors.
Egg Noodles: Soft and comfortingly chewy, egg noodles serve as a wonderful base for the salted egg shrimp to rest upon. Drizzle with a bit of soy sauce for added umami goodness.
Spicy Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a zesty sesame dressing adds a crunchy contrast that cuts through the richness of the shrimp. Plus, the spice will keep your taste buds dancing!
Chilled Szechuan Cucumber Salad: Light and invigorating, this salad s crunchy cucumbers and spicy dressing provide a cooling contrast to the decadent shrimp, making each bite refreshingly delicious.
Lychee or Mango Juice: These fruity drinks offer a sweetness that balances the savory notes of the garlic and salted egg yolk, creating a delightful pairing that enhances your dining experience.
Each of these accompaniments not only enhances the flavors of your crispy salted egg shrimp but also transforms your meal into a colorful, multi-dimensional feast.
Storage Tips for Salted Egg Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover salted egg shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping shrimp separate from the sauce to maintain crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the sauce for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy the shrimp again, reheat in a preheated oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 10-15 minutes for restored crispiness, then serve with the warmed sauce.
Room Temperature: It s best to enjoy salted egg shrimp immediately after cooking to experience its full flavor and texture, but it can sit out for no more than 2 hours.
Expert Tips for Making Salted Egg Shrimp
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest prawns you can find for the best flavor; freshness makes all the difference in this salted egg shrimp dish.
- Coating Technique: Ensure the prawns are patted dry before coating with cornflour to achieve optimal crispiness. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess.
- Hot Oil: Check that your oil is hot enough (around 180 °C or 350 °F) to get that perfect golden crust; using a cooking thermometer can help.
- Batch Frying: Fry in smaller batches to avoid crowding the pan, allowing each shrimp to cook evenly for the best texture and flavor.
- Sauce Consistency: If the salted egg yolk sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency before adding the shrimp.
- Storage Advice: For leftovers, store shrimp and sauce separately to maintain their textures enjoy them fresh within two days!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Egg Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance by cleaning, deveining, and seasoning them, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can steam the salted egg yolks and mash them into a paste ahead of time; they ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply deep-fry the shrimp (just coat them in cornflour just before frying) and combine them with the sauce for restaurant-quality results. This approach not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows you to enjoy a flavorful dish without the fuss!
Salted Egg Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select fresh prawns for my salted egg shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing prawns, look for those with a firm texture and a slightly sea scent. Their shells should be shiny and not have dark spots all over, which indicates they are turning. If possible, ask your fishmonger for prawns that were caught the same day they re usually the most delicious!
What is the best way to store leftover salted egg shrimp?
Very! To maintain the crispy texture, store your leftover salted egg shrimp in an airtight container, but keep the shrimp separate from the salted egg sauce. When properly stored in the fridge, they can last up to 2 days. If you have leftover sauce, keep that sealed as well; it can last in the fridge for about 3 4 days.
Can salted egg shrimp be frozen?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the sauce for up to 1 month. Here s how: first, let the shrimp cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 180 °C (350 °F) for that crispy finish.
What should I do if my shrimp turn out soggy?
The more the merrier! If your shrimp come out soggy, it could be due to excess moisture or overcrowding in the frying pan. Next time, ensure that the shrimp are patted dry before coating with cornflour, and fry them in smaller batches to allow enough space for each piece to cook evenly! Additionally, make sure to use oil that s hot enough, around 180 °C (350 °F) for that crispy crust.
Can I make salted egg shrimp for someone with egg allergies?
Very! Unfortunately, salted egg shrimp is not suitable for those with egg allergies due to its central ingredient salted egg yolks. However, you might consider using a vegan egg substitute, or experimenting with a creamy sauce made from blended silken tofu and nutritional yeast, which could mimic the rich flavor, though it won t have the same taste.
Is salted egg shrimp safe for pets?
Not really. While shrimp can be safe for pets in moderation, salted egg shrimp is not suitable for animals due to its high salt and butter content. It s always best to share plain, cooked shrimp with pets and avoid any seasoned dishes!