Shrimp Tempura Burger is a delightful fusion dish that combines crispy shrimp in a light batter with fresh Asian coleslaw and zesty sriracha mayo, all nestled in a toasted bun. This versatile recipe is perfect for casual dinners, game day gatherings, or even as sliders for your next party. The unique blend of textures and flavors makes this burger a standout option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy shrimp, tangy slaw, and spicy mayo creates an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a full burger or turn them into sliders for entertaining guests, making them great for any event.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and flavorful sauces, this Shrimp Tempura Burger is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these burgers, making it a perfect family meal choice.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Shrimp Tempura Burger efficiently, gather the following essential tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or slotted spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Frying pan or deep fryer: Essential for achieving the perfect crispy texture on your shrimp tempura.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients to make the batter and coleslaw.
- Whisk: Helps to mix the batter ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: Ideal for safely flipping shrimp while frying and serving them hot.

Ingredients
For the Shrimp Tempura
- 9 ounces (or 12 ounces frozen) peeled and deveined shrimp ( See note below)*
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped scallion
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons ice cold water
For Assembly
- 6 chicken hamburger buns, toasted just before assembly
- Neutral oil for shallow frying
For the Asian Coleslaw
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 small carrot (Shredded with a vegetable peeler. Only 1/2 cup is needed.)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons rice apple vinegar
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
- 1/3 cup lightly packed cilantro leaves
For the Sriracha Mayo
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 level tablespoon Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce (provides medium heat)
- 1 teaspoon honey
How to Make Shrimp Tempura Burger
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and chopped scallion. Gradually whisk in the ice-cold water until smooth. Let it rest while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Coleslaw
In another bowl, mix together shredded cabbage, shredded carrot (only use 1/2 cup), sugar, rice apple vinegar, fish sauce, lime juice, and cilantro leaves. Toss well to combine everything evenly.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a frying pan or deep fryer over medium heat, add enough neutral oil for shallow frying. Heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into the batter to coat evenly. Carefully place them in the hot oil in batches. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 3–4 minutes). Remove using tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burgers
Toast chicken hamburger buns briefly before assembly. Spread a generous amount of sriracha mayo on each side of the bun. Layer with fried shrimp followed by a scoop of coleslaw. Top with the other half of the bun.
Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Tempura Burger!
How to Serve Shrimp Tempura Burger
Serving your Shrimp Tempura Burger can elevate your dining experience. With the right accompaniments, you can create a delightful meal that impresses family and friends.
Classic Fries
- Crispy French fries are a timeless companion. Their crunch complements the tender shrimp tempura perfectly.
Sweet Potato Chips
- For a sweeter option, serve with homemade or store-bought sweet potato chips. They add a nice contrast in flavor.
Asian-Inspired Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens, sesame dressing, and sliced cucumbers brings a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the burger.
Pickled Vegetables
- Tangy pickled vegetables provide a zesty crunch that pairs well with the savory flavors of the shrimp tempura.
Edamame
- Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a healthy and satisfying side that enhances your meal.
Slaw Variation
- Consider serving extra Asian slaw on the side. The crisp texture and tangy taste will complement the burger beautifully.
How to Perfect Shrimp Tempura Burger
To achieve the ultimate Shrimp Tempura Burger, focus on key techniques and ingredients. Here are some essential tips:
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Use Cold Water: Always use ice-cold water for your batter. This helps create a light and crispy texture.
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Don’t Overcrowd: When frying, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches to ensure each piece cooks evenly and stays crispy.
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Preheat Oil Properly: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding shrimp. This prevents them from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
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Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve your burgers right after they are assembled.
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Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to modify the coleslaw ingredients based on your preferences. Adding different vegetables can enhance both color and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Tempura Burger
Pairing sides with your Shrimp Tempura Burger can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:
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Crispy Onion Rings: These add a delicious crunch and sweetness that complements the savory shrimp.
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Garlic Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic pairs wonderfully, making it a satisfying addition to your burger meal.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting start or side that fits well with Asian cuisine.
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Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables echo the flavors of the burger while adding variety.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites, keeping things light and vibrant.
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Cucumber Salad: This cool salad adds a crisp texture while balancing out the warm flavors of your burger.
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Chili Garlic Noodles: Spicy noodles can be an exciting side dish that brings an extra kick to your meal.
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Seaweed Salad: A nutritious option packed with umami flavor, seaweed salad is both tasty and healthy alongside your shrimp burger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Shrimp Tempura Burger can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using warm water: Warm water can affect the batter’s crispiness. Always use ice cold water for the best results.
- Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to maintain optimal heat.
- Not seasoning properly: Neglecting to season your batter and coleslaw can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you follow the ingredient measurements for a balanced taste.
- Skipping the chilling step: Allowing the batter to chill briefly enhances texture. Don’t skip this step for a lighter, crunchier result.
- Ignoring the buns: Toasting your hamburger buns adds flavor and prevents sogginess. Make sure to toast just before assembly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep them fresh.
Freezing Shrimp Tempura Burger
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers for best preservation.
Reheating Shrimp Tempura Burger
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place burgers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Note that this may make the buns softer.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Shrimp Tempura Burger?
A Shrimp Tempura Burger features shrimp encased in a light, crispy batter, served on a toasted bun with refreshing Asian coleslaw and spicy sriracha mayo.
How do I make the batter crispy?
To achieve a crispy texture, ensure you use ice cold water and avoid overmixing your batter. This helps retain air bubbles during frying.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just ensure they are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before preparing your Shrimp Tempura Burger.
What can I serve with my Shrimp Tempura Burger?
These burgers pair wonderfully with fries or potato chips. You can also serve them as sliders for appetizers at gatherings!
Can I customize my Shrimp Tempura Burger?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like avocado or different sauces according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
The Shrimp Tempura Burger is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or sauces to suit your tastes. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any meal or gathering!
Shrimp Tempura Burger
Enjoy a crunchy Shrimp Tempura Burger with Asian slaw and sriracha mayo! Perfectly customizable—try it today!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 9 ounces peeled and deveined shrimp
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped scallion
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons ice cold water
- 6 chicken hamburger buns, toasted just before assembly
- Neutral oil for shallow frying
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 small carrot (1/2 cup shredded)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons rice apple vinegar
- 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
- 1/3 cup lightly packed cilantro leaves
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 level tablespoon Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and chopped scallion. Gradually whisk in the ice-cold water until smooth. Let it rest while you prepare the other ingredients.
- In another bowl, mix together shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, sugar, rice apple vinegar, lime juice, and cilantro leaves. Toss well to combine.
- In a frying pan over medium heat, add enough neutral oil for shallow frying. Heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each shrimp into the batter to coat evenly. Carefully place them in the hot oil in batches. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 3–4 minutes). Remove using tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Toast chicken hamburger buns briefly before assembly. Spread a generous amount of sriracha mayo on each side of the bun. Layer with fried shrimp followed by a scoop of coleslaw. Top with the other half of the bun.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (210g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg