Dive into a seafood sensation with these Delicious Shrimp Cakes. These cakes are a wonderful blend of succulent shrimp, crispy panko breadcrumbs, and fresh chives, beautifully balanced with the zestiness of lemon. The red bell pepper adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, making this dish not only taste incredible but look appealing too.
Most of the ingredients for these shrimp cakes are the everyday kitchen staples. However, the one ingredient you might need to pick up from the supermarket is raw shrimp. Fresh, raw shrimp is the star ingredient of this recipe, and it's crucial for the texture and flavor of the cakes. Another ingredient that you may not commonly have at home is panko breadcrumbs, which add a light, airy, and crispy texture to the cakes.
Ingredients for Delicious Shrimp Cakes
Raw shrimp: These are the star of the dish, providing a unique, sweet and slightly briny flavor.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs have a light, airy, and crispy texture that helps bind the cakes and keep them from falling apart.
Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness to the cakes.
Chives: These provide a mild onion flavor to complement the shrimp.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.
Pepper: Adds a bit of kick to the cakes.
Eggs: These act as a binder to hold all the ingredients together.
Lemon zest: Brings a fresh, tangy flavor which complements the taste of shrimp.
Olive oil: Used to fry the cakes, adding a hint of richness to them.
Sour cream: Serves as a delicious, tangy garnish.
Lemon wedges: For squeezing on top of the cakes for an added zesty twist.
One reader, Gerri Petrie says:
These shrimp cakes are a game-changer! The combination of fresh shrimp, zesty lemon, and crispy panko breadcrumbs is simply divine. The patties turned out perfectly golden and flavorful. I topped them with a dollop of sour cream and a squeeze of lemon - absolute perfection!
Techniques Required for Making Shrimp Cakes
How to form the shrimp mixture into patties: After combining the shrimp mixture, gently shape it into 6 evenly sized patties. Use your hands to form the mixture into round, flat shapes, ensuring they hold together well.
How to cook the shrimp patties: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp patties in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. Ensure they are cooked through and no longer translucent in the center before serving.
How to serve the shrimp cakes: Serve the shrimp cakes immediately. Top them with additional chives and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Garnish the plate with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus flavor.
How To Make Shrimp Cakes
Here’s something inventive for your next meal. These shrimp cakes are flavorful and healthy thanks to the chives and bell peppers in the recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbraw shrimppeeled and deveined
- ¾cupPanko Breadcrumbs
- ¼cupred bell pepperfinely diced
- 3tbspsliced chivesplus more for garnish
- ½tspsalt
- ¼tsppepper
- 2eggs
- 1tsplemon zest
- 4tbspolive oil
- sour creamoptional, for serving
- lemon wedgesoptional, for serving
Instructions
-
Place the shrimp in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until coarsely chopped – do not grind into a paste.
-
Transfer the shrimp to a large bowl and add the panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, chives, salt, pepper, eggs, and lemon zest. Stir gently to combine.
-
Form the shrimp mixture into 6 patties.
-
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
-
Add the shrimp patties in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
-
Serve immediately. Top with additional chives and sour cream if desired. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 195.43kcal
- Fat: 11.04g
- Saturated Fat: 1.78g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.16g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.35g
- Carbohydrates: 6.58g
- Fiber: 0.67g
- Sugar: 0.77g
- Protein: 17.91g
- Cholesterol: 175.03mg
- Sodium: 282.77mg
- Calcium: 75.55mg
- Potassium: 248.82mg
- Iron: 0.89mg
- Vitamin A: 36.06µg
- Vitamin C: 12.94mg
Essential Technique Tip for Making delicious shrimp cakes recipe
When forming the shrimp patties, try to pack them loosely. Over-packing can result in dense cakes. Also, make sure your pan is hot before adding the patties. This will help to create a nice, crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Time-Saving Tips for Making delicious shrimp cakes recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pan to minimize cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the recipe and freeze the extra portions for quick and easy meals later.
Efficient tools: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up prep work.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Cakes Recipe
raw shrimp - Substitute with crab meat: Crab meat has a similar texture and mild, sweet flavor that can work well in place of shrimp in this recipe.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed saltine crackers: Saltine crackers can provide a similar crunchy texture and absorbent quality to panko breadcrumbs in the shrimp cakes.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a slightly sweeter flavor and can add a vibrant color to the shrimp cakes.
chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions can offer a similar mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the shrimp cakes.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor and a touch of saltiness to the shrimp cakes.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide a similar heat and depth of flavor to the shrimp cakes.
eggs - Substitute with flaxseed eggs: Flaxseed eggs can act as a binding agent similar to eggs in the recipe.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest can offer a similar citrusy aroma and flavor to enhance the shrimp cakes.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking the shrimp cakes.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy and tangy element to accompany the shrimp cakes.
lemon wedges - Substitute with lime wedges: Lime wedges can offer a similar citrusy acidity to complement the shrimp cakes.
Best Way to Present These Delicious Shrimp Cakes
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the shrimp cakes in a circular pattern on the plate, with a drizzle of sour cream in the center for a touch of elegance.
- Garnish with precision: Sprinkle a few delicate chive strands over the shrimp cakes, ensuring each one is perfectly placed for a visually stunning presentation.
- Incorporate color contrast: Introduce a vibrant element by adding a few thinly sliced red bell pepper strips on top of the shrimp cakes, creating a visually appealing contrast.
- Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by leaving some areas of the plate bare, allowing the shrimp cakes to stand out as the focal point of the dish.
- Add a citrus twist: Place a meticulously cut lemon wedge on the side of the plate, providing a refreshing and zesty element to complement the flavors of the shrimp cakes.
Essential Tools for Making Shrimp Cakes
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It can be used to finely chop the shrimp for the shrimp cakes recipe.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients. It is used to mix the shrimp, breadcrumbs, bell pepper, chives, eggs, and seasonings together to form the shrimp cake mixture.
- Large pan: A large pan is used for frying the shrimp cakes. It provides a spacious cooking surface and allows the shrimp cakes to cook evenly.
- Spatula: A spatula is necessary for flipping the shrimp cakes while they are cooking in the pan. It helps to ensure that both sides are golden brown and cooked through.
- Grater: A grater is used to zest the lemon, adding a burst of citrus flavor to the shrimp cakes.
- Knife: A knife is required for slicing the chives, dicing the red bell pepper, and deveining the shrimp before processing them in the food processor.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper for the recipe.
How To Store and Freeze Shrimp Cakes
- To store leftover shrimp cakes, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooled shrimp cakes by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen shrimp cakes, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed shrimp cakes in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil or butter until warmed through and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- For best results, consume the reheated shrimp cakes immediately to maintain their texture and flavor. Serve with fresh toppings and garnishes, such as a dollop of sour cream, sliced chives, and a squeeze of lemon.
How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Cakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shrimp cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help maintain the crispy exterior while ensuring the inside is warmed evenly.
For a quicker option, use your microwave. Place the shrimp cakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-45 seconds. If not heated through, continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the shrimp cakes to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, this is an excellent way to reheat your shrimp cakes while maintaining their crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the shrimp cakes in the basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
For a stovetop method, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp cakes and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through. This method will give you a freshly cooked taste and texture.
If you want to add some extra flavor while reheating, consider brushing the shrimp cakes with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice. This will enhance the taste and aroma of the reheated shrimp cakes.
Random Fact About Shrimp Cakes
The shrimp cakes recipe is a versatile dish that can be easily customized by adding different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Is Making Shrimp Cakes at Home Economical?
This shrimp cakes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Shrimp is a relatively affordable protein, and the additional ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The use of panko breadcrumbs and eggs helps to stretch the shrimp, making it suitable for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict for this recipe would be 8/10, considering the balance of cost and flavor.
Are Shrimp Cakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The shrimp cakes recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe uses panko breadcrumbs, which are typically made from refined wheat flour and lack fiber and nutrients.
- Olive oil is used for frying the shrimp cakes, adding extra calories and fat to the dish.
- The recipe includes sour cream as a topping, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
However, the recipe does have some positive aspects:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- The addition of red bell pepper and chives provides some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and vitamin K.
- Lemon zest adds flavor without increasing the calorie count significantly.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the panko breadcrumbs with whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients.
- Instead of frying the shrimp cakes in olive oil, try baking them in the oven or using an air fryer to reduce the fat content.
- Opt for a healthier topping like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which will provide a similar tangy flavor with less saturated fat and more protein.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe by adding finely chopped carrots, celery, or green onions to the shrimp mixture for extra nutrients and fiber.
- Serve the shrimp cakes with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Editor's Thoughts on This Shrimp Cake Recipe
This shrimp cake recipe is a delightful combination of fresh shrimp, crunchy panko breadcrumbs, and zesty lemon zest. The addition of red bell pepper and chives adds a burst of color and flavor. The cooking method ensures a crispy exterior and tender interior. The use of sour cream and lemon wedges as garnishes provides a refreshing contrast to the savory shrimp cakes. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and elegant presentation.
Enhance Your Shrimp Cakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Shrimp Cakes
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with delicious shrimp cakes recipe
Why trust this Shrimp Cakes Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with its fresh shrimp, vibrant red bell pepper, and fragrant chives. The use of lemon zest adds a zesty kick, while the panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. The careful seasoning and cooking process ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Trust in the quality of the ingredients, including the succulent raw shrimp, and the expertise behind this recipe. It's a culinary masterpiece that promises to elevate your mealtime.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!