Prawn chips or shrimp crackers are an adored snack that has gained worldwide popularity due to its light, crispy texture and savory taste. They make a really great snack and puff up massively when frying, and the crisp bite is just lovely.
But what is the mystery behind this magical transformation? In this article, we look at prawn crisps puffing, their history, ingredients, the nutritional value they add, how they are made, and some ways in which we can ensure that we make some at home.
History of Prawn Chips
Prawn chips have their exact origin in Southeast Asia, where they are commonly associated with Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand and their krupuk fame. These states have been producing and consuming a variety of products under this name, including shrimp, fish, and other types of seafood. As time went by, these snacks gained popularity all across Asia and, of later date, globally.
Ingredients of Shrimp Crackers
A shrimp cracker have the following ingredients:
Shrimp or prawn: The shrimp imparts flavor as the main ingredient.
Tapioca flour or starch: This imparts the special texture to the crackers and is responsible for effective puffing up.
Water: Water is used to form the dough.
Seasonings: Flavourings like salt or sugar can be added, along with garlic or other spices.
What Are Shrimp Crackers Made Of?
Shrimp crackers are an interesting blend of ground shrimp or prawns, tapioca flour, water, and seasonings, all rolled out to make thin sheets, cut into small pieces, and dried. Once dry, the little pieces are deep-fried, puffing up to become crispy.
The expansion of puff prawn chips is fast, a factor of the higher expansion of moisture and air core inside the dough. The chips fry up ar high temperature while dried; therefore, the moisture evaporates instantly and the dried product realizes itself in the stream. Such puts pressure to the, in turn, that makes the dough expand and puff high. The Impact or the t= tapioca flour- Gelatinized starch, which provides the chips with the crispiness.
Are Shrimp Crackers(Prawn Chips) Healthy?
The healthiness of shrimp crackers can be a bit of mixed bag. They could be very low-fatted and caloric compared to other fried snacks, but with some soaring high content for sodium and really without important value nutritionally.
Nutritions values of Prawn Chips
On average, a typical serving of shrimp crackers (about 1 ounce or 28 grams) contains the following nutritions:
| S.N. | Nutritions on Shrimp Crackers | Values |
| 1 | Calories | 150 Kcal |
| 2 | Fat | 7 grams |
| 3 | Sodium | 400 mg |
| 4 | Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| 5 | Protein | 2 grams |
While they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, it’s important to consume them in moderation due to their high sodium content.
Nongshim Shrimp Crackers
Nongshim Shrimp Crackers are a popular brand of shrimp-flavored chips from South Korea. It is also known for the signature taste of shrimp and its crunch, Nongshim’s version of the shrimp crackers remains the nation’s pride bringing with it a loyal following. These crackers contain similar ingredients to the original prawn chips, just with other added seasonings that make them special.
Are Shrimp Chips and Prawn Crackers the Same?
Shrimp chips and prawn crackers are used synonymously, although there are minor differences due to region and manufacturer. Generally, both use shrimp or prawn and tapioca flour, and they go through the same process of puffing when fried. However, specific flavor profiles and texture might have variations.
In fact, prawn crackers can be made even without prawns, the vegetarian or vegan way.
Shrimp Chips Recipe:
Required Ingredients:
- Tapioca flour: 1 cup
- Water: 1/2 cup
- Vegetable broth powder: 1 tablespoon (for flavor)
- Seasonings: Such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Mix the tapioca flour, water, vegetable broth powder, and seasonings to make a thick, pliable dough.
- Roll out the dough into thin sheets and cut them into the desired shapes.
- Dry them thoroughly, as they need to be, either by air-drying or in a dehydrator.
Deep fry until they puff up.
This crackers are entirely plant-based, tastes and feels like real prawn crackers.
FAQs
1. What is the main ingredient in prawn chips?
Shrimp or prawns, tapioca flour, water, and seasonings are the main ingredients.
2. Why do prawn chips puff up?
Prawn chips puff with heat as the dough’s moisture and air rapidly expands inside, creating steam that in turn expands the dough itself.
3. Are Shrimp Crackers and Prawn Crackers the Same?
Yes, shrimp crackers and prawn crackers are basically the same, although in some cases the actual ingredients and flavor profiles might differ from one’s region and producer.
4. Are Shrimp Crackers Healthy?
Shrimp crackers can be eaten occasionally. They contain less amount of fats and calories but possibly high in sodium.
5. How to make prawn crackers without prawns?
The product can be manufactured without utilizing prawn but by utilizing tapioca flour, water, vegetable broth powder, spice, and herbs for providing such product with the flavor characteristics and texture as that of a genuine prawn cracker.
Enjoy the succulent and crunchy taste of prawn chips, be that the traditional one or perhaps a vegetarian version. If you have any messages or suggestion for us, please email us. Thank You.
