Introduction
Delve into the delightful world of crispy fried shrimp, a crowd-pleasing dish that brings flavors of the sea right to your plate. This recipe combines the succulence of large shrimp with a perfectly seasoned breading, creating a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with fresh lemon and parsley. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these perfectly fried shrimp are sure to be a hit.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; tails on or off
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup cornmeal
¾ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy making this delicious shrimp dish! It’s perfect for gatherings, quick weeknight meals, or simply a delightful treat for yourself.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If frozen, thaw the shrimp and pat dry. Place them in a large bowl with the buttermilk. Toss to coat and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Breading Mixture
Meanwhile, whisk the cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a shallow bowl.
Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp
A few at a time, shake the excess buttermilk off the shrimp and dredge them in the cornmeal mixture. Ensure they are fully coated, pressing the breading onto the shrimp as needed.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat a large Dutch oven with 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with paper towels.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
In batches, fry the shrimp until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on the paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain. Season with an additional pinch of salt, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Note 1: Shrimp Size
Large shrimp work best for this recipe to ensure even cooking and a satisfying bite.
Note 2: Buttermilk Substitute
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Note 3: Adjusting Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. You can omit it altogether for milder shrimp.
Note 4: Garnish Options
Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice pop of color. Lemon wedges enhance the flavor when squeezed over the shrimp before eating.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Soak the shrimp in buttermilk to tenderize and enhance the flavor. This technique also helps the breading adhere better to the shrimp.
Dredging
Coat the shrimp in a mixture of cornmeal and flour for a crispy exterior. Press the mixture onto the shrimp to ensure an even coating.
Frying
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F for frying. This temperature helps achieve a golden brown color while keeping the shrimp juicy. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
Draining
After frying, place the shrimp on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This ensures the shrimp remain crispy and not greasy.
Garnishing
Finish by seasoning the fried shrimp with a pinch of salt, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges to enhance the presentation and add a fresh flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?
Yes, you can use other seafood like scallops or fish fillets, but cooking times may vary.
What is the purpose of soaking shrimp in buttermilk?
Soaking in buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp and enhances the flavor while helping the breading stick better.
How can I tell when the oil is hot enough for frying?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread or batter into it; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is ready.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the breading and marinate the shrimp in advance. However, fry them right before serving for optimal crispiness.
What can I serve with fried shrimp?
Fried shrimp pairs well with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad, as well as sauces like cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.
Conclusion
This crispy fried shrimp recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and a satisfying crunch. The combination of spices and the buttermilk marinade elevates the shrimp, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a special treat at home. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh touch, and enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Combine fried shrimp with corn tortillas, shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo for a delicious taco night.
Shrimp Salad
Serve fried shrimp on a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
Layer fried shrimp in a sub roll with lettuce, tomatoes, and remoulade sauce for a classic Southern sandwich.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Toss fried shrimp with cooked pasta, garlic, olive oil, and parsley for a quick and flavorful dish.
Buffalo Shrimp Bites
Toss the fried shrimp in buffalo sauce and serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a spicy appetizer.
