•- 1.5 lbs large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined
•- 3 cups vegetable oil for frying
•- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
•- ½ cup all-purpose flour
•- 2 large eggs, beaten
•- ½ cup mayonnaise
•- 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
•- 2 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
•- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
•- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
•- 1 tablespoon honey
•- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
•- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
•- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
•- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
•- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1Pat shrimp completely dry using paper towels, removing all excess moisture. Butterfly each shrimp by slicing along the back without cutting all the way through, creating a fan shape when opened flat. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2Prepare your breading station with three shallow bowls: place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second bowl, and panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl. Arrange them in a line for efficient coating.
3Combine mayonnaise, Sriracha, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, lime juice, honey, and soy sauce in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk together until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Set aside at room temperature to let flavors develop, at least 15 minutes.
4Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 365°F, using a thermometer to monitor temperature accurately. The oil should be at least 2 inches deep for proper frying.
5Working with one shrimp at a time, dredge in flour and shake off excess, dip into beaten egg allowing excess to drip off, then press firmly into panko breadcrumbs coating both sides thoroughly. Place breaded shrimp on a clean plate.
6Fry shrimp in batches of 4-5 pieces to avoid overcrowding, cooking until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F throughout cooking. Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly.
7Place hot fried shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy spicy sauce over shrimp and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated, about 30 seconds.
8Transfer sauced shrimp to a serving platter immediately. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions for restaurant-style presentation. Serve hot while coating remains crispy.