Thai Shrimp in a Blanket

Thai Shrimp in a Blanket, also known as Goong Hom Pha, is a popular Thai appetizer featuring whole shrimp wrapped in crispy spring roll wrappers and deep-fried to golden perfection. These savory bites are crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and typically served with a sweet chili dipping sauce. They’re visually appealing and bursting with flavor, making them a fantastic starter for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is simple to make yet delivers a restaurant-quality result. The combination of crispy wrapping and succulent shrimp creates a satisfying texture in every bite. It’s perfect for parties, game nights, or as a fun addition to a Thai-inspired dinner. The ingredients are minimal, and the preparation can be done ahead of time, making it both convenient and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)

• Spring roll wrappers

• Garlic (minced)

• Soy sauce

• Sesame oil

• Ground white pepper

• Cornstarch or flour (for sealing)

• Water (to make sealing paste)

• Vegetable oil (for deep-frying)

• Sweet chili sauce (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the shrimp by cleaning, peeling, and deveining them, leaving the tails intact. Pat them dry with paper towels.

2. In a bowl, marinate the shrimp with soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, and white pepper. Let sit for 15–20 minutes.

3. Cut spring roll wrappers into thirds (lengthwise) to create long strips.

4. Mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a sealing paste.

5. Place one shrimp at the end of a wrapper strip with the tail sticking out. Roll the wrapper around the shrimp tightly, sealing the end with the cornstarch paste.

6. Repeat with the remaining shrimp and wrappers.

7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.

8. Fry the wrapped shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch.

9. Remove and drain on paper towels.

10. Serve hot with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–15 wrapped shrimp.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinate Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Around 45 minutes
Serves: 4–6 as an appetizer

Variations

• Add herbs: Place a small leaf of Thai basil or cilantro inside the wrap for extra flavor.

• Spicy kick: Add a touch of chili paste or sriracha to the marinade.

• Bake instead of fry: Brush the rolls with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until crispy.

• Different wrappers: Try using wonton wrappers or rice paper for alternative textures.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the wrappers soggy.
These are best enjoyed fresh, so only fry what you plan to eat.

FAQs

Can I make Thai Shrimp in a Blanket ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

What size shrimp should I use?

Large shrimp (16–20 count per pound) work best to fill the wrapper nicely without being too bulky.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, assemble the shrimp rolls and freeze them uncooked. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.

What dipping sauce works best?

Sweet chili sauce is traditional, but you can also try plum sauce, peanut sauce, or a spicy soy-based dip.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking works well. Brush them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) until crispy and golden, about 12–15 minutes.

How do I prevent the wrappers from unrolling during frying?

Seal the end well with cornstarch paste and ensure the roll is tight before frying.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice paper instead of spring roll wrappers for a gluten-free version.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently. It’s flavorful but not spicy unless you add chili to the marinade or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.

What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral, high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Conclusion

Thai Shrimp in a Blanket is a crispy, flavorful appetizer that’s both easy to make and sure to impress. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a taste of Thai cuisine at home. Whether you’re dipping into sweet chili sauce or experimenting with your own twist, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.