Butterfly Shrimp
Butterfly shrimp with crispy bacon, crunchy almonds, and a flavorful broth sauce, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a savory, crunchy, and slightly spicy dish. Ideal for appetizers or main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the shrimp and split them along the back, but do not cut all the way through.
- Wash and dry the shrimp with a towel.
- Cut the bacon into three pieces each.
- Spread the shrimp open and place a piece of bacon on top of each.
- Warm a skillet over medium heat.
- Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, then place them in the skillet with the bacon side down.
- Brown the shrimp until crisp and then turn to cook the other side until done. Remove from skillet.
- Saute the sliced spring onion in the skillet for several minutes.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Cover and cook for 3 minutes.
- Thicken the sauce with a mixture of cornstarch and water.
- Pour the gravy over the shrimp and top with spring onions and cracked toasted almonds.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in a mix of Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco for 30 minutes before cooking. If you don't have toasted almonds, try using pecans for a different crunch. Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet to achieve a perfect crisp on the shrimp. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute bacon with turkey bacon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the butterfly shrimp over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside a fresh salad for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Two Bean Chicken Salad for a light lunch or as part of a larger spread. Garnish with extra spring onions and toasted almonds for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover and heat until warmed through, which helps maintain the shrimp's tenderness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterfly Shrimp contains roughly 282 calories, with 15g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 684mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before preparing. This helps achieve the desired crispiness when cooked.
What can I substitute for the bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon alternative, consider using smoked turkey or tempeh for a vegetarian option. This will provide a similar smoky flavor while keeping the dish light.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To increase the heat in the sauce, add more dashes of Tabasco or include some chopped fresh chili peppers. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).