A delightful dinner doesn’t always have to be a lengthy affair, and this recipe for Crispy Prawn Burgers is the perfect example. Just imagine the moment when the golden-brown patties hit the pan, sending a mouthwatering aroma wafting through your kitchen. In under 30 minutes, you can craft a scrumptious meal that’s not just easy to whip up, but also impressively flavorful. Nestled in soft brioche buns and topped with a zingy Bang Bang Sauce, these burgers are the ultimate way to elevate your weeknight dining. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who loves homemade flavors, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Ready to dive into a crunchy, shrimp-filled delight? Let’s get cooking!
Why Love These Crispy Prawn Burgers?
Unmatched flavor: These Crispy Prawn Burgers burst with the irresistible taste of succulent prawns and tangy Bang Bang Sauce, elevating any dinner table.
Quick and easy: You’ll love how this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to on busy weeknights.
Customizable options: Feel free to swap in your favorite sauces or toppings, like spicy aioli or creamy avocado, for a fresh twist.
Perfect for sharing: Impress your guests at casual gatherings with a dish that’s sure to be the star of the show.
Crispy texture: With panko breadcrumbs, each bite delivers satisfying crunch and flavor, making this recipe a delightful comfort food!
Crispy Prawn Burgers Ingredients
For the Prawn Patties
- Prawns (shrimp) – Fresh (400g) or frozen (500g) provides the main protein; note that frozen prawns lose water when thawed.
- Garlic – Fresh, minced garlic is key for aroma and flavor; don’t skip this ingredient!
- Green onion – Adds a mild, fresh flavor; can substitute with finely minced onion if necessary.
- Panko breadcrumbs – Essential for a crunchy texture; avoid standard breadcrumbs as they won’t yield the same crispness.
- Egg – A lightly whisked egg serves as a binder to hold the patties together.
- Plain flour (all-purpose flour) – Helps the panko adhere perfectly; any all-purpose flour will do.
For Cooking
- Olive oil – Used for frying and adds flavor; can be substituted with any neutral oil like vegetable or canola.
For Assembling
- Brioche buns – Soft and slightly sweet, these are perfect for the burgers; feel free to use any soft roll if you prefer.
- Shredded iceberg or cos lettuce – Adds freshness and crunch, enhancing the overall burger experience.
- Gherkins – Sliced gherkins provide a tangy element; dill pickles work as a substitute if desired.
- Bang Bang Sauce – A creamy blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha brings that signature kick; alternatives include tartar sauce or aioli.
With these Crispy Prawn Burgers ingredients, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal that’s bursting with flavor!
How to Make Crispy Prawn Burgers
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Prepare Prawns: Thaw frozen prawns if needed and chop them into small pieces. This ensures they’re easy to mix, giving your burgers that delightful texture.
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Create Mixture: Blitz half the prawns with minced garlic into a paste. Then, in a bowl, combine this paste with remaining chopped prawns, green onion, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
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Form Patties: Roll the prawn mixture into balls, then coat each ball in flour, dip in whisked egg, and finally roll in panko breadcrumbs, shaping them into patties.
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Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the patties for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crispy.
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Assemble Burgers: Spread a generous layer of Bang Bang Sauce on the bottom of each brioche bun. Place a crispy prawn patty on top, adding gherkins and lettuce before finishing with the top bun.
Optional: Serve with homemade or frozen fries for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Prawn Burgers
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Fresh Prawns: Always opt for fresh prawns if possible; frozen ones can lose moisture, making the patties less flavorful.
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Panko Crunch: Don’t forget the panko breadcrumbs! They create that desired crispy texture in your Crispy Prawn Burgers that regular breadcrumbs just can’t match.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix your ingredients gently to keep the patties light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense burgers.
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Proper Cooking Temp: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying—too low, and the patties will absorb oil rather than crisp up.
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Keep Them Together: If patties fall apart, wet your hands slightly when forming them; it helps in shaping without sticking to your fingers.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the Bang Bang Sauce to your spice preference; adding more sriracha can elevate the flavor kick!
Crispy Prawn Burgers Variations
Explore exciting ways to elevate your Crispy Prawn Burgers and make them uniquely yours!
- Seafood Swap: Replace prawns with fresh fish or scallops for a different oceanic flavor that still pleases the palate.
- Sauce Substitution: Use tartar sauce or a spicy aioli instead of Bang Bang Sauce for a twist on the flavor profile that adds creaminess and zest.
- Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or dill to the prawn mixture for a burst of fresh flavor in every bite.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely grated zucchini or carrots into the prawn mixture for added moisture and nutrition, enhancing the burger’s texture.
- Avocado Addition: Top your burger with sliced avocado for richness and creaminess that perfectly complements the crunchy prawns.
- Heat it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the prawns before cooking for those who crave a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour to create a deliciously crispy burger that everyone can enjoy.
- Cheesy Delight: Melt cheese on top of the patties just before they’re done cooking for an indulgent, gooey flavor that takes your burgers to the next level.
Remember, the beauty of these Crispy Prawn Burgers lies in their versatility—embrace your creativity and enjoy the delicious exploration!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Prawn Burgers
Fridge: Store cooked Crispy Prawn Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in a pan over medium heat for the best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, defrost the patties in the fridge overnight and cook as instructed. For leftover cooked burgers, reheat in a pan to retain their crispiness.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the prawn patties a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
What to Serve with Crispy Prawn Burgers?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with perfect sides that elevate the experience!
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Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a classic choice. Their salty crunch pairs wonderfully with the juicy prawn patties.
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Coleslaw: Fresh and tangy coleslaw provides a great contrast to the rich flavors of the burger. It’s a colorful addition that brings brightness to your plate.
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Sweet Potato Wedges: These naturally sweet wedges add a lovely depth of flavor, complementing the savory prawn burgers beautifully.
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Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and a citrus dressing balances the richness of the burgers. It’s refreshing and nutritious!
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Garlic Aioli: This creamy dip can enhance the flavor profile of your burgers. Serve it on the side for a delightful twist—perfect for those who love a little extra sauce!
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Beer: Pairing your meal with a cold beer, like a lager or pale ale, can refresh the palate and enhance the overall dining experience.
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Lemonade: A homemade lemonade, with its zesty brightness, can beautifully complement the savory notes of your meal, making each bite feel even more special.
These pairing ideas will elevate your Crispy Prawn Burgers from a simple meal to an extraordinary dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Prawn Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the prawn patty mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the chopped prawns, garlic, green onion, salt, and pepper, then cover and refrigerate to keep them fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can shape the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days—be sure to use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you are ready to serve, just pan-fry the patties for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. This not only saves time but also ensures that the flavors are just as delicious when you finally indulge!
Crispy Prawn Burgers Recipe FAQs
What kind of prawns should I use for Crispy Prawn Burgers?
Absolutely! Fresh prawns are ideal for this recipe, providing the best flavor and texture. If fresh prawns aren’t available, you can certainly use frozen prawns, but be aware that they may lose some moisture during thawing, which can slightly affect the taste and texture of your patties.
How should I store leftover Crispy Prawn Burgers?
Leftover cooked Crispy Prawn Burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to keep them crispy and delicious.
Can I freeze the uncooked prawn patties?
Very much so! To freeze uncooked patties, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, defrost in the fridge overnight, then cook as per the recipe for fresh, crispy goodness.
Why are my prawn patties falling apart? How can I fix this?
If your patties are falling apart, don’t worry—it happens! To fix this, make sure you’re using a lightly whisked egg as a binder, and mix your ingredients gently to avoid overworking them. If they still feel too wet, refrigerating them for about 30 minutes before cooking can help firm them up.
Are there any allergy considerations for Crispy Prawn Burgers?
You’ll want to be cautious if you or your guests have shellfish allergies, as this recipe features prawn as a main ingredient. Additionally, the Bang Bang Sauce contains mayonnaise, which can be an allergen for some. If you’re unsure, consider making a simple homemade sauce with yogurt and herbs instead for a fresh alternative.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the prawn patties a few hours in advance. Simply keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them. This also helps the flavors meld together nicely. Just remember to handle them gently to maintain their shape!
Crispy Prawn Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw frozen prawns if needed and chop them into small pieces.
- Blitz half the prawns with minced garlic into a paste, then combine with remaining chopped prawns, green onion, salt, and pepper.
- Roll the prawn mixture into balls, coat in flour, dip in whisked egg, and roll in panko to shape into patties.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry patties for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Spread a layer of Bang Bang Sauce on each brioche bun, add a crispy prawn patty, gherkins, lettuce and top with the other bun.