How to Make Ebi Mayo (Fried Shrimp with Japanese Mayonnaise Sauce Recipe)

Ebi Mayo (shrimp mayo) is a beloved Japanese dish that features succulent, crispy fried shrimp generously coated in a rich, velvety, and creamy mayonnaise-based sauce. Its addictive contrast of textures—the snap of the shrimp and the smoothness of the glaze—has made it a mainstay in both home kitchens and professional restaurants alike.

Though now considered a staple in modern Japanese cuisine, its origins trace back specifically to the 1980s. A visionary chef from the historic Cantonese restaurant Heichinrou in Yokohama’s Chinatown encountered a shrimp dish served with aurora sauce while visiting San Francisco and Los Angeles. Finding the Western version somewhat underwhelming, he drew upon traditional Cantonese cooking techniques to refine the recipe, creating a unique Japanese-Chinese fusion version that quickly skyrocketed in popularity across Japan.

The beauty of Ebi Mayo is that it is remarkably easy to recreate at home with just a few key pantry staples: fresh shrimp, high-quality Japanese mayonnaise, and a simple batter that ensures the perfect, airy crunch. The secret to achieving ultra-crispy shrimp lies in the meticulous coating and frying technique. First, always pat the shrimp completely dry before dusting them in cornstarch or flour to prevent sogginess. Then, deep-fry them at 355°F (180°C) for approximately 1–2 minutes per side until they reach a beautiful golden hue. It is crucial to be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can turn rubbery and lose their sweetness very quickly; once the meat turns pink and opaque, they are perfectly done and ready to be sauced.

What truly sets this dish apart from other fried seafood is its luscious signature sauce. The base is made with thick Japanese mayo, which is combined with a splash of soy sauce for umami and a drizzle of honey to provide a gentle, balancing sweetness. This sauce is incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it to your personal palate by adding a squeeze of Sriracha for a spicy kick, a dash of lemon juice for zesty brightness, or even a touch of grated garlic for extra aromatic depth.

Once the shrimp are fried to a crisp and tossed in the shimmering sauce, they are ready to be enjoyed in various creative ways. For a classic experience, serve them over a bowl of steaming white rice for a simple yet deeply satisfying meal. For a more adventurous meal, you can tuck them into sushi rolls for a fun fusion twist, or create an ebi mayo donburi by layering the saucy shrimp over rice with a bed of crisp shredded cabbage and an extra drizzle of sauce.

Another mouthwatering and popular option is the ebi mayo burger. By piling these crispy, glazed shrimp onto a lightly toasted bun with fresh lettuce, you create a Japanese-inspired seafood burger that offers an incredible explosion of crunch and creaminess in every bite!

If you find yourself falling in love with ebi mayo burgers, you might also enjoy the ebi katsu burger, which features a similar crispy shrimp patty but uses a crunchy panko breadcrumb coating—be sure to check out that recipe on our blog for more inspiration! For those seeking a lighter, low-carb option, try serving your ebi mayo in fresh lettuce wraps with a squeeze of fresh lemon to cut through the richness. The irresistible combination of crispy, juicy shrimp and an umami-packed sauce makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or looking to impress guests at a party.

With the right frying temperature and a perfectly balanced sauce, homemade Ebi Mayo can easily rival the best versions found in high-end Japanese restaurants. Simple to prepare yet undeniably indulgent, it is a dish that delivers pure comfort and bold flavor in every single bite—making it an absolute must-try for seafood lovers and Japanese food enthusiasts alike.