Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe

Craving a delightful dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of corn with the savory goodness of shrimp? Look no further than these flavorful Shrimp Corn Cakes! When I first experimented with this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how the humble combination of corn and shrimp could create such a delightful culinary experience. The addition of herbs, a hint of Sriracha, and a splash of lemon juice truly elevate these corn cakes to a whole new level of deliciousness.

I whipped up these Shrimp Corn Cakes for some friends recently, and let’s just say, they were a hit! The best part? You don’t need any fancy techniques or exotic ingredients to make these mouthwatering cakes. Just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish that speaks for itself. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a lunch club meeting, or simply treating yourself to a special meal, these corn and shrimp cakes are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Quick Benefits

  • Combines the sweetness of corn with the ocean taste of shrimp for a unique flavor profile
  • Versatile and adaptable based on seasonal ingredients
  • Perfect for gluten-free diets without compromising on taste
  • Great for family activities like shaping the cakes together

Why You’ll Love This Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe Recipe

  • The combination of sweet corn and oceanic shrimp creates a delicious and unique flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
  • The addition of herbs, Sriracha, and lemon juice adds a burst of fresh and zesty flavors, elevating the dish to a whole new level.
  • The cakes are gluten-free, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on taste or texture.
  • The versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it based on seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and delightful experience every time you make them.
  • The simplicity of the ingredients and cooking process makes this recipe accessible to all levels of home cooks, with no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required.
  • The make-ahead option of chilling the mixture not only enhances the flavors but also makes shaping the cakes easier, giving you a stress-free cooking experience.
  • These shrimp and corn cakes are perfect for various occasions, from dinner parties to casual family gatherings, as they effortlessly blend elegance and comfort.
  • Involving kids in the shaping process can turn making these cakes into a fun family activity, fostering creativity and a love for cooking in young ones.
  • Sharing this recipe with friends and teaching them how to make it can be a rewarding experience, sparking joy and confidence in their culinary skills while creating lasting memories together.

Ingredients for Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe

Shrimp Patties

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, preferably extra-virgin
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 12 oz raw shrimp, cleaned and without tails
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay spice blend
  • 1/3 cup parsley leaves, chopped fresh
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels, defrosted if frozen

Spicy Sauce

  • 1/4 teaspoon powdered garlic
  • 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 tablespoon juice squeezed from a fresh lemon
  • 2 tablespoons your favorite mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup full-fat plain yogurt or sour cream

Pro Tips for Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe

Pro Tip #1: To enhance the flavors of these shrimp corn cakes, consider marinating the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of Old Bay spice blend for about 15-30 minutes before chopping them up for the cakes. This will infuse the seafood with additional flavor and make each bite even more delicious.

Pro Tip #2: For a crispier exterior on the corn cakes, make sure your pan is hot before adding the cakes to it. Allow them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop a golden crust. Additionally, using a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet will help prevent sticking and ensure a perfectly seared finish on the cakes.

How to Make Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe

Step 1: Start with Shrimp Mix

Pulse shrimp, corn, parsley, egg, and Old Bay in a food processor until mixture holds together without being mushy.

Step 2: Whip Up Spicy Topping

Combine all sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl until creamy, then set aside.

Step 3: Fry the First Round

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a hot pan over medium-high heat. Shape shrimp mixture into 1/4 cup rounds, flatten to 1/4 inch thickness, and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until browned.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Rest

Repeat the frying process with the remaining shrimp using the last tablespoon of oil to make a total of 8 patties.

Storage Tips

Once you have cooked the shrimp corn cakes, allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them. You can store the cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; arrange the cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked shrimp corn cake mixture. Shape the cakes and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cakes to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to cook, you can fry or bake the frozen cakes straight from the freezer – just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through. This make-ahead option is perfect for quick and easy meals or entertaining guests at short notice.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the shrimp with diced firm tofu or cooked lentils. Both options will provide a similar texture and protein content to the dish while still maintaining a delicious flavor profile.

If you prefer a spicier kick, you can substitute the Sriracha with a finely chopped jalapeño or red chili pepper. This will add a fresh heat element to the cakes and elevate the flavor for those who enjoy a bit more spice in their dishes.

Consider adding different herbs or spices to the mix based on personal preference or ingredient availability. Chopped cilantro, dill, or a pinch of smoked paprika can bring a unique twist to the corn and shrimp cakes while still keeping the essence of the original recipe intact. Experimenting with different seasonings can help tailor the dish to suit your taste preferences and make it even more versatile for various occasions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these flavorful Shrimp Corn Cakes as a delightful appetizer by placing them on a platter with a dollop of the zesty Sriracha-infused yogurt sauce on top of each cake. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Your guests will love the combination of sweet corn, succulent shrimp, and a hint of spice in each bite!

For a main dish presentation, create a vibrant summer bowl by layering a bed of mixed greens or arugula, then topping with a generous portion of the Shrimp Corn Cakes. Drizzle the lemon-garlic mayo sauce over the cakes and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of citrus flavor. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a satisfying and delicious meal that celebrates the best flavors of the season.

FAQs for Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use defrosted frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

Can I substitute the Old Bay spice blend with another seasoning?

Yes, if you don’t have Old Bay spice blend on hand, you can substitute it with a combination of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Can I make these shrimp corn cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shrimp corn cake mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours until you’re ready to cook them. Chilling the mixture helps the flavors meld and makes shaping the cakes easier.

Can I bake these shrimp corn cakes instead of pan-frying them?

While the traditional method is to pan-fry the shrimp corn cakes, you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier option. Simply place the shaped cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Conclusion

In a world where elaborate recipes often steal the spotlight, don’t underestimate the power of simplicity embodied by Shrimp Corn Cakes. These delicious cakes, a harmonious blend of corn sweetness and ocean flavors from the shrimp, have a way of charming everyone who tastes them. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion – from laid-back backyard gatherings to elegant dinner parties.

It’s amazing how such humble ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. So, next time you’re in the mood for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, remember the magic of Shrimp Corn Cakes. Let their flavors speak for themselves and enjoy the joy they bring to your table.

Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe

Savory Shrimp Corn Cakes Recipe

“Summery Shrimp Corn Cakes – A harmonious blend of sweet corn and ocean-fresh shrimp, zesty herbs, and a hint of spice, perfect for any occasion.”
Prep Time20 Minutes
Cook Time10 Minutes
Total Time30 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings (8 patties)

Ingredients

Shrimp Patties

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, preferably extra-virgin
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 12 oz raw shrimp, cleaned and without tails
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay spice blend
  • 1/3 cup parsley leaves, chopped fresh
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels, defrosted if frozen

Spicy Sauce

  • 1/4 teaspoon powdered garlic
  • 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 tablespoon juice squeezed from a fresh lemon
  • 2 tablespoons your favorite mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup full-fat plain yogurt or sour cream

Instructions

  1. Start with Shrimp Mix: Pulse shrimp, corn, parsley, egg, and Old Bay in a food processor until mixture holds together without being mushy.
  2. Whip Up Spicy Topping: Combine all sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl until creamy, then set aside.
  3. Fry the First Round: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a hot pan over medium-high heat. Shape shrimp mixture into 1/4 cup rounds, flatten to 1/4 inch thickness, and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until browned.
  4. Finish Cooking the Rest: Repeat the frying process with the remaining shrimp using the last tablespoon of oil to make a total of 8 patties.