If you love crispy, savory snacks that combine bold seafood flavor with light, crunchy textures, crispy shrimp chips rice paper is an irresistible treat. This simple yet impressive recipe transforms delicate rice paper wrappers into golden, crispy chips infused with shrimp flavor—a perfect appetizer, party snack, or side dish.
With just a few ingredients and easy frying or baking steps, you can create homemade shrimp chips that rival store-bought versions but with fresher taste and a gourmet touch. Serve with dipping sauces or as a crunchy accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients
Makes approximately 20 chips.
- 10 sheets round rice paper wrappers (approximately 8 inches diameter)
- 4 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Vegetable oil for frying (or spray oil for baking)
- Optional: chili flakes or paprika for extra heat
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 to 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 to 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Paste
- Finely mince the raw shrimp or pulse in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed.
- Mix the shrimp with fish sauce, garlic powder, and sugar until well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Paper
- Lightly moisten one rice paper sheet by briefly dipping it in warm water until pliable but not soggy. Lay flat on a clean surface.
- Spread about one tablespoon of the shrimp mixture evenly across the rice paper, leaving a small border around the edge.
Step 3: Shape and Dry the Chips
- Carefully roll or fold the rice paper over the shrimp mixture to enclose it, pressing gently to seal edges.
- Repeat with remaining rice paper sheets and shrimp mixture.
- Allow the wrapped sheets to dry slightly on a wire rack for 10 minutes to become less sticky.
Step 4: Cook the Chips
Frying method:
8. Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
9. Carefully add the shrimp chips in batches, frying until puffed and golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.
10. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Baking method (healthier alternative):
8. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
9. Place shrimp chips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with oil.
10. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until crispy and golden, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve chips warm or at room temperature with dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mayo.
- Garnish with chili flakes if desired for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Asian-inspired dips like hoisin, peanut sauce, or sriracha mayo.
- Serve alongside fresh spring rolls or Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches for texture contrast.
- Use as a crunchy garnish on seafood salads or poke bowls.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (5 chips) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Total Fat | 8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 16 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 320 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Shrimp adds lean protein and important minerals like iodine and selenium.
- Rice paper is low in fat and provides a light, gluten-free base.
- Using fish sauce adds umami flavor with minimal calories.
- Baking reduces fat content compared to frying while maintaining crispiness.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not over-soak the rice paper; it should be flexible but not soggy to hold the filling.
- Fry or bake in small batches to ensure even cooking and maximum crispness.
- Let the chips cool completely before storing in an airtight container to retain crunch.
- Experiment with flavor additions like minced lemongrass, kaffir lime zest, or chili oil.
Variations to Try
- Substitute shrimp with finely chopped crab or cooked scallops for different seafood flavor.
- Add finely chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil into the shrimp mixture.
- Spice it up with minced jalapeño or chili paste mixed into the filling.
- Make vegetarian chips by replacing shrimp with seasoned tofu or mushrooms.
Crispy shrimp chips rice paper is an easy, flavorful snack or appetizer that brings a gourmet touch to any meal. Its light, crunchy texture paired with the savory shrimp filling makes it a crowd-pleaser for parties, casual get-togethers, or simply a tasty treat at home.
Whether you prefer frying for traditional puffed chips or baking for a lighter option, this recipe delivers satisfying crunch and bold flavor every time. Try it today and enjoy homemade shrimp chips that outshine the store-bought variety!