Seafood Dynamite is a dazzling dish that brings bold flavors and a touch of spice to the table. Originating from Japanese-inspired cuisine, this recipe combines fresh seafood with a creamy, spicy sauce that’s baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and easy to make.
We love how versatile Seafood Dynamite is – you can use shrimp, scallops, crab, or a mix of your favorites. The rich sauce, made with mayo, chili sauce, and a hint of garlic, perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the seafood. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or just craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers a satisfying burst of flavor every time.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Seafood Dynamite, we carefully select fresh ingredients that blend seamlessly for a rich and spicy flavor profile. Below, we break down the essentials into key groups for clarity and ease of preparation.
Seafood Selection
Choosing the right seafood is crucial for our Seafood Dynamite recipe. We recommend a combination that balances texture and taste, showcasing the natural sweetness and freshness.
- 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 ounces scallops, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 ounces imitation crab meat, shredded or chopped
- Optional: 4 ounces calamari rings for added variety and chew
Sauce Ingredients
The signature creamy spicy sauce defines the dish’s bold flavor. We emphasize using fresh and simple components to build that irresistible umami and heat balance.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Use Japanese mayo like Kewpie for authentic creaminess |
| Sriracha sauce | 2 tbsp | Adjust for preferred spice level |
| Garlic, minced | 1 tbsp | Fresh for pungent aroma |
| Sugar | 1 tsp | Balances heat and acidity |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp | Adds brightness and cuts richness |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | Enhances umami depth |
Additional Ingredients
These ingredients give texture and garnish that complement the rich seafood and sauce, adding crunch and visual appeal.
- 2 green onions, finely sliced for freshness
- 1 tbsp butter for sautéing seafood, enhancing flavor
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Shredded nori or seaweed flakes to sprinkle on top (optional)
Using these components precisely, we craft a dish that bursts with layers of flavor and texture — true to the essence of Seafood Dynamite.
Equipment Needed
To make Seafood Dynamite perfectly every time, having the right tools streamlines the process and ensures consistent, delicious results. Here is the essential equipment we use for this recipe:
- Nonstick skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for cooking seafood evenly without sticking or drying out.
- Mixing bowls: One for preparing the creamy spicy sauce and another for tossing seafood before cooking.
- Whisk or fork: To combine ingredients for the dynamite sauce smoothly.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Precisely measure mayo, Sriracha, lemon juice, and other ingredients.
- Sharp chef’s knife: For chopping garlic, green onions, and trimming seafood if needed.
- Cutting board: A sturdy, clean surface for prepping all ingredients.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Essential for stirring and tossing seafood in the pan without breaking the pieces.
- Serving dish or plate: Present the finished dish beautifully, enhancing its vibrant appeal.
- Optional: small strainer or sieve: Useful if we want to rinse seafood quickly or remove excess liquid.
Using quality equipment paired with fresh ingredients brings out the best in our ocean-inspired delight. Below is a quick reference table summarizing the key tools:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Nonstick skillet | Evenly cooking seafood |
| Mixing bowls | Preparing sauce and combining food |
| Whisk or fork | Blending sauce ingredients |
| Measuring spoons and cups | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Chopping and trimming |
| Cutting board | Safe ingredient prep |
| Spatula or wooden spoon | Stirring and tossing without damage |
| Serving dish | Attractive plating |
| Optional strainer | Rinsing seafood or draining liquids |
Equipping our kitchen with these basics sets us up for a seamless cooking experience and a show-stopping Seafood Dynamite every time.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, proper Prep Work is crucial for ensuring our Seafood Dynamite comes together perfectly. Let’s get everything ready by carefully handling the seafood and crafting our signature sauce.
Preparing the Seafood
Start by selecting fresh seafood such as shrimp, scallops, and imitation crab meat. Here’s how we prep them:
- Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving tails on for presentation if desired. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Scallops: Remove the tough side muscle from each scallop, then pat them dry gently to eliminate excess moisture.
- Imitation crab meat: Separate into bite-sized chunks or strips for even cooking.
- Optional: If using calamari, clean and slice into rings.
Keep a clean cutting board and use a sharp chef’s knife to ensure clean cuts without damaging the seafood’s delicate texture. Patting the seafood dry is essential as it helps the sauce adhere better and prevents steaming during cooking.
| Seafood Item | Prep Steps | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | Peel, devein, rinse, pat dry | Leave tails on if preferred |
| Scallops | Remove muscle, pat dry | Handle gently to maintain texture |
| Imitation Crab Meat | Separate into bite-sized pieces | No additional prep needed |
| Calamari (optional) | Clean, slice into rings | Use fresh for best texture |
Making the Sauce
Our creamy, spicy sauce is the heart of Seafood Dynamite. Precise measurements and thorough mixing bring out its bold flavor:
- Combine ½ cup mayonnaise and 2 tbsp Sriracha in a bowl.
- Add 1 tsp minced garlic for aromatic depth.
- Stir in 1 tsp sugar to balance heat.
- Mix in 1 tbsp lemon juice for a subtle tang.
- Add 1 tsp soy sauce to enhance umami.
Whisk all ingredients vigorously until the sauce is smooth and creamy with a consistently spicy kick. This blend complements the natural sweetness of seafood and creates the perfect coating.
| Sauce Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Creamy base |
| Sriracha | 2 tbsp | Spicy heat |
| Minced Garlic | 1 tsp | Aroma and flavor depth |
| Sugar | 1 tsp | Balances spiciness |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Adds brightness |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tsp | Enhances umami |
By thoroughly prepping the seafood and expertly mixing our sauce, we set the foundation for an unforgettable Seafood Dynamite experience.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create the perfect Seafood Dynamite, blending tender seafood with a creamy, spicy sauce that bursts with flavor.
Sautéing the Seafood
- Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering.
- Add prepared seafood – shrimp, scallops, and imitation crab meat – to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté the seafood for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque, scallops are lightly golden, and crab meat is warmed through.
- Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance natural flavors.
- Remove the seafood from heat and transfer it to a warm plate, keeping it covered to retain heat.
Combining with Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, prepare the signature creamy spicy sauce by whisking together the following:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sriracha | 2 tablespoons |
| Minced garlic | 1 teaspoon |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | ½ tablespoon |
- Whisk these ingredients until the sauce is smooth and creamy with a balanced kick of spice and tang.
- Add the sautéed seafood into the bowl with the sauce.
- Gently fold the seafood into the sauce using a spatula or wooden spoon to evenly coat each piece without breaking.
- For added flavor and texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and shredded nori over the top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Seafood Dynamite experience, pairing it with complementary sides enhances both texture and flavor. Here are our top serving suggestions that bring balance and sophistication to this rich and creamy dish.
Ideal Accompaniments
- Steamed Jasmine Rice
The neutral, fluffy rice absorbs the spicy sauce perfectly, making every bite harmonious and satisfying.
- Garlic Butter Naan or Toasted Baguette
A crispy bread choice allows us to scoop up the creamy seafood mix, adding a delightful crunch contrast.
- Light Asian Slaw
Tossed with a tangy rice vinegar dressing, the crisp vegetables provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the sauce.
Beverage Pairings
Complement the bold flavors of our seafood dish with these drink options:
| Beverage Type | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Crisp White Wine | Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio | Cuts through creaminess and spices |
| Light Beer | Pilsner or Lager | Refreshes the palate |
| Green Tea | Unsweetened or Jasmine | Cleanses and complements seafood flavors |
Garnish Enhancements
We love boosting visual appeal and flavor with:
- Additional toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top for nuttiness.
- Fresh cilantro or shiso leaves to add brightness and herbs.
- A drizzle of extra Sriracha or chili oil for those who crave extra heat.
Serving Style Tips
- Serve hot and fresh immediately after mixing to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best texture.
- Use a shallow bowl or deep plate to hold the creamy seafood, making scooping easy and mess-free.
- Present with small side dishes to invite sharing and communal dining.
By combining these serving suggestions, we ensure our Seafood Dynamite Recipe shines as a complete meal that satisfies all senses and leaves guests eager for more.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Seafood Dynamite ahead of time can save us valuable moments, especially when hosting guests or managing a busy schedule. Here are several strategic tips to ensure our dish stays fresh, vibrant, and full of its signature bold flavors.
1. Prep Seafood in Advance
We can clean, peel, devein, and portion our seafood (shrimp, scallops, crab meat) up to 24 hours before cooking. Store it in an airtight container, tightly sealed, and keep it chilled at or below 40°F (4°C). This maintains freshness without sacrificing texture.
2. Make and Store Sauce Separately
The creamy spicy sauce made of mayo, Sriracha, garlic, sugar, lemon juice, and soy sauce is best prepared up to 2 days in advance. Keep it in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator.
Before combining with seafood, stir well as separation may occur.
3. Cooking & Assembly Timing
We recommend sautéing seafood just before serving for the juiciest and most tender result. However, if short on time:
| Step | Advance Prep Time | Storage Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seafood prep | Up to 24 hours | Refrigerated airtight container |
| Sauce mix | Up to 48 hours | Refrigerated sealed container, stir before use |
| Cooked seafood | 1-2 hours | Cover loosely, keep warm, avoid overcooking |
4. Garnish Preparation
Chop green onions and toast sesame seeds a few hours ahead. Store separately at room temperature to maintain crunch and freshness. Add garnishes just before serving to keep the final presentation crisp and vibrant.
5. Final Assembly
Combine warm sautéed seafood and cold sauce gently right before plating to preserve the dish’s creamy texture and spicy kick.
“For the best Seafood Dynamite experience, aim to combine freshly cooked seafood with the pre-made sauce moments before serving. This balance preserves both the temperature and texture we love.”
Implementing these Make-Ahead Tips ensures our Seafood Dynamite remains an impressive and flavorful dish even with time constraints.
Conclusion
Seafood Dynamite is a fantastic way to bring bold flavors and elegant presentation to your table without complicated techniques. With its creamy, spicy sauce and fresh seafood, it’s a dish that impresses every time.
By following the right prep and cooking steps, we can easily create a restaurant-quality meal that suits any occasion. Plus, the make-ahead tips help us save time while keeping the dish fresh and flavorful.
Whether for a special dinner or a cozy night in, Seafood Dynamite offers a delicious and satisfying experience that’s sure to become a favorite in our recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Seafood Dynamite?
Seafood Dynamite is a Japanese-inspired dish featuring fresh seafood like shrimp, scallops, and crab, combined with a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, chili sauce, garlic, and other seasonings. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for special occasions or indulgent meals.
Which seafood works best for Seafood Dynamite?
Popular choices include shrimp, scallops, imitation crab meat, and calamari. Using fresh seafood ensures the best texture and taste in the dish.
What ingredients make up the signature sauce?
The sauce typically includes mayonnaise, Sriracha or chili sauce, garlic, sugar, lemon juice, and soy sauce, creating a creamy, spicy, and tangy flavor profile.
What equipment do I need to make Seafood Dynamite?
Basic kitchen tools like a nonstick skillet, mixing bowls, whisk or fork, measuring spoons, a sharp knife, cutting board, and spatula are required for smooth preparation.
How important is seafood prep for this dish?
Properly cleaning and prepping seafood is essential to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. This step helps ensure the seafood cooks evenly and blends well with the sauce.
Can Seafood Dynamite be made ahead of time?
Yes. You can prep seafood up to 24 hours and sauce up to 48 hours in advance. Combine warm seafood with cold sauce just before serving to keep the dish fresh and creamy.
How should I serve Seafood Dynamite?
Serve it hot and fresh with garnishes like green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and shredded nori. Pair with steamed rice or light salads and enjoy it communally for the best experience.