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

Ebi Mayo (shrimp mayo) is a beloved Japanese dish that features crispy fried shrimp coated in a rich, creamy mayonnaise-based sauce.

Though now a staple in Japanese cuisine, its origins trace back to the 1980s, when a chef from the historic Cantonese restaurant Heichinrou in Yokohama’s Chinatown visited San Francisco and Los Angeles. There, he encountered a shrimp dish served with aurora sauce at Chinese restaurants but found it underwhelming. Drawing from Cantonese cooking techniques, he refined the dish, creating a version that quickly gained popularity in Japan.

It’s easy to make at home with just a few key ingredients: shrimp, Japanese mayo, and a simple batter that ensures the perfect crunch. The secret to ultra-crispy shrimp lies in the coating and frying technique: pat the shrimp dry before dusting them in cornstarch or flour, then deep-fry at 355°F (180°C) for 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can turn rubbery quickly; once they turn pink and opaque, they’re perfectly done.

What truly sets this dish apart is its luscious mayo sauce, made with Japanese mayo, a splash of soy sauce, and a drizzle of honey for balance. You can easily customize it by adding sriracha for heat, lemon juice for brightness, or a touch of garlic for extra depth.

Once the shrimp are fried and coated in the sauce, they’re ready to be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them over steamed rice for a simple yet satisfying meal, tuck them into sushi rolls for a fun twist, or make an ebi mayo donburi by layering them over rice with shredded cabbage and extra sauce.

Another mouthwatering option is an ebi mayo burger. Pile crispy shrimp onto a toasted bun with lettuce and extra mayo sauce for a Japanese-inspired seafood burger that’s both crunchy and creamy!

If you love ebi mayo burgers, you might also enjoy ebi katsu burger, which features a similar crispy shrimp patty with a crunchy panko coating—check out the recipe on our blog! For a lighter option, serve ebi mayo in lettuce wraps with a squeeze of fresh lemon. The irresistible combination of crispy, juicy shrimp and an umami-packed sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or impressing guests.

With the right frying technique and a perfectly balanced sauce, homemade ebi mayo can rival the best versions from Japanese restaurants. Simple yet indulgent, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite, a must-try for seafood lovers and Japanese food enthusiasts alike.