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Ingredients
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Rock Shrimp
Aji Amarillo Sweet Chili Sauce
Method
Rock Shrimp
- 1
- 2
Make batter
In a medium bowl combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, and 1/2 tsp baking powder. Whisk to combine. Gradually pour in 3/4 cup cold club soda while whisking until a slightly thick but pourable batter forms. The batter should cling to the shrimp but remain light; if too thick, add up to 1 tablespoon more soda.
- 3
Heat oil
Pour 4 cups neutral oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small bit of batter — it should sizzle and float immediately.
- 4
Fry shrimp
Working in batches to avoid crowding, dip 6–8 seasoned shrimp into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then gently lower them into the hot oil. Fry until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch (rock shrimp are small; watch closely). Turn as needed for even color. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried shrimp to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to paper towels to drain. Keep finished batches in a single layer in a warm oven set to 200°F (95°C) if desired while you finish frying remaining shrimp.
- 5
Aji Amarillo Sweet Chili Sauce
- 6
Combine sauce ingredients: In a small bowl or jar add 2 tbsp aji amarillo paste, 2 tbsp honey, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp rice vinegar, 1/2 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 tsp salt.
- 7
Emulsify and adjust consistency: Whisk or shake vigorously until smooth and homogeneous. If the sauce is too thick for dipping, add up to 1 tablespoon water, 1 tsp at a time, to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning — more honey if you want sweeter, more lime for brightness, or an extra 1/2 tsp aji amarillo paste for heat.
- 8
Chill briefly: For best flavor meld, chill the sauce in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes before serving. Bring to room temperature for a few minutes if very cold when serving with hot shrimp.