Sylheti-style Spiced Shrimp Pancakes

Ingredients

In this Sylheti adaptation, we incorporate the distinct flavors of Sylheti cuisine by marinating the shrimp in a blend of Sylheti spices. Additionally, we use a combination of rice flour and gram flour in the batter, which adds a unique texture and taste to the pancakes. The cooking technique remains similar, with the pancakes being pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior. We alse have the original recipe for Chamchijeon, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined 250g (8.8 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup rice flour 1/2 cup rice flour
• 1/2 cup gram flour (besan) 1/2 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup water
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the shrimp, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice flour, gram flour, baking powder, and water to make a smooth batter.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Dip each marinated shrimp into the batter, ensuring it is well coated, and carefully place it in the hot oil.
5. 5.
   Fry the shrimp pancakes until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process with the remaining shrimp and batter.
7. 7.
   Serve the Sylheti-style Spiced Shrimp Pancakes hot with your favorite dipping sauce or chutney.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to devein and peel the shrimp before marinating them. This will ensure a clean and enjoyable eating experience.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of garam masala to the batter.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder.
• Serve the pancakes with a tangy tamarind chutney or a refreshing mint yogurt dip.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can also bake the pancakes in the oven instead of frying them.
• Experiment with different seafood options such as fish or squid for a variation in flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Sylheti-style Spiced Shrimp Pancakes as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by steamed rice and a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden brown shrimp pancakes on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with a side of dipping sauce or chutney for an enticing presentation.