If you’re looking for a light, crispy, and flavorful appetizer or snack that packs a punch, these shrimp fritters with Nuoc Cham dipping sauce are exactly what you need. This Vietnamese-inspired recipe combines fresh shrimp, aromatic herbs, and a perfectly balanced dipping sauce to create a dish that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a delicious treat, these fritters are sure to impress.

Shrimp Fritters with Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: A Flavorful Vietnamese Delight

Why You’ll Like This Recipe

This shrimp fritter recipe is incredibly satisfying thanks to its perfect blend of textures and flavors. The fritters are crispy from frying yet tender with juicy shrimp inside. The herbs and chilies add freshness and a bit of heat, making each bite exciting. Plus, the Nuoc Cham sauce complements the fritters perfectly with its sweet, tangy, and salty notes. Best of all, these fritters are easy to make and use simple ingredients you probably have on hand. They are perfect for those who enjoy Asian flavors and want a dish that’s both approachable and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Fritters:

1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped into small pieces
1/2 cup rice flour
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup cold water
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
1–2 small red chilies, finely chopped (optional)
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce:

3 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1/4 cup warm water
1 garlic clove, minced
1–2 small red chilies, finely chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional for extra tang)

Tip: You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Instructions

Prepare the Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and warm water until the sugar dissolves.
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Adjust the chili quantity to your preferred heat level.
For extra tanginess, add rice vinegar if desired.
Let the sauce sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Make the Shrimp Fritter Batter:

In a medium bowl, combine chopped shrimp, green onions, cilantro, mint (if using), and chilies (if using).
In a separate large bowl, whisk rice flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Add egg and cold water to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
Fold the shrimp mixture into the batter, ensuring even coating.

Fry the Shrimp Fritters:

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should sizzle when a small bit of batter is dropped in.
Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil and flatten slightly to form fritters.
Fry in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Remove fritters and drain on paper towels.

Serve:
Serve the shrimp fritters hot with the Nuoc Cham dipping sauce on the side.

Variations

Swap shrimp for finely chopped crab or fish for a different seafood twist.
Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the batter for added texture and nutrition.
Make the fritters spicier by increasing the red chili quantity or adding chili powder to the batter.
For a gluten-free option, use only rice flour and gluten-free baking powder.

Heating and Storage

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy. The dipping sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp is best for fritters?

Fresh or frozen peeled and deveined shrimp work best. Chop them finely for even distribution in the batter.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 2 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Give it a quick stir before frying.

What if I don’t have rice flour?

You can substitute with additional all-purpose flour, but the texture will be slightly less crispy.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying gives the best crispiness, you can bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How spicy are the fritters?

They are mildly spicy by default. Adjust the chili amount according to your heat preference.

Is the dipping sauce essential?

The sauce enhances flavor but the fritters are delicious on their own as well.

Can I freeze the cooked fritters?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.

What can I use instead of fish sauce?

Soy sauce mixed with a bit of lime juice is a good vegetarian substitute.

Are these fritters gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour and baking powder.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are preferred for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used sparingly.

Conclusion

These shrimp fritters with Nuoc Cham dipping sauce are a delightful combination of crispy, fresh, and tangy flavors that will quickly become a favorite. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or party food, these fritters bring authentic Vietnamese flair to your table with minimal fuss. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious taste of Southeast Asia at home.