At the table
Let it cool slightly, break into bites and dip lightly. Check the whole shrimp; remove any tough shell or sharp head and tail pieces before eating.
Ask whether the batter is rice-based and which oil is used. This version contains shrimp and peanut oil; other recipes and vinegar ingredients differ.
This is the Lingao rice-and-chive version. Scallions can replace chives; shrimp-free chive cakes are a related snack, not this shrimp cake.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
This is the Lingao rice-and-chive version. Scallions can replace chives; shrimp-free chive cakes are a related snack, not this shrimp cake.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory shrimp and aromatic garlic chives, with sweet-sour vinegar dip.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Crisp thin golden rim and softer rice-batter center.
- How it’s made
- Soak rice and grind with water into thick batter; mix in chopped garlic chives. Put batter and one small shrimp in a round mold and fry in peanut oil. Mix aged vinegar and sugar for dipping.
This is the Lingao rice-and-chive version. Scallions can replace chives; shrimp-free chive cakes are a related snack, not this shrimp cake.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Hainan.
About this regional connection
Hainan: Local culinary association; not a claim of exclusive origin.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有炸虾饼吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Hainan fried shrimp cake
Lingao cake stalls fry small batches for people gathered nearby. Rice batter, chives and a shrimp topping distinguish this local snack.