Kerupuk Udang

Introduction

Kerupuk Udang, or shrimp crackers, are a beloved snack in many Southeast Asian countries. These crunchy delights are often enjoyed as an accompaniment to meals, a party snack, or just a standalone treat. The history of shrimp crackers dates back centuries in Indonesia, where locals discovered the perfect balance of flavors by combining ground shrimp with tapioca flour and other ingredients to create a crispy delicacy. This recipe will guide you through the process of making traditional Indonesian Kerupuk Udang at home.

Ingredients

• Shrimp - 500 grams, peeled and deveined
• Tapioca Flour - 300 grams
• Egg Whites - 2 large
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• White Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Water - 150 ml
• Oil - for frying

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Paste

Begin by finely chopping the shrimp in a food processor until it forms a smooth paste. Transfer the paste to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Add the tapioca flour, sugar, salt, and white pepper to the shrimp paste. Gradually mix in the water and egg whites to form a dough-like consistency. Ensure that all ingredients are incorporated evenly.

Step 3: Shape the Crackers

Roll out the dough into a cylinder shape about 3 cm in diameter. Wrap the cylinder with plastic wrap to keep the moisture intact.

Step 4: Cooking Process

Steam

Place the wrapped dough in a steamer for about 45 minutes or until it becomes firm. Use a cooking timer to ensure accurate timing. Once steamed, remove the plastic wrap and let the log cool completely.

Slice and Dry

Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into thin, even pieces. Lay the slices out on a baking tray and dry in the sun, or use an oven set to a low temperature to dehydrate them completely. This process can take several hours.

Frying

Heat oil in a deep pan to about 180°C. Carefully add the dried slices into the oil, frying for a few seconds until they puff up and become golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the crackers and drain on paper towels.

Enjoying Kerupuk Udang

Kerupuk Udang can be enjoyed as they are or paired with spicy sambal. They also make a great accompaniment to dishes such as nasi goreng or soto. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.

With this detailed guide, you can bring the authentic taste of Indonesian Kerupuk Udang to your table, impressing family and friends with a culinary piece of history.