Fried shrimp is a classic dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. This Fried Shrimp Recipe features shrimp coated in a seasoned flour or breadcrumb mixture, then fried to golden perfection. It’s a simple, quick, and delicious way to enjoy shrimp, making it ideal as an appetizer, snack, or main course. The crunchy exterior pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Whether you serve it with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside fries, coleslaw, or rice, fried shrimp is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Fried Shrimp Recipe
- Quick & Easy: You can make this recipe in under 20 minutes with just a few simple ingredients.
- Crispy & Juicy: The shrimp are coated and fried to create a crispy crust while keeping the shrimp tender inside.
- Customizable: You can switch up the coating with breadcrumbs, flour, or even cornmeal for different textures.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an appetizer, snack, or main course, fried shrimp is always a hit.
Key Ingredients for Fried Shrimp
1. Shrimp
- Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy eating. You can leave the tails on or off, depending on preference.
2. Flour or Breadcrumbs
- You can use all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, or a combination of both for the coating. Panko breadcrumbs create a super crunchy exterior, while flour gives a more traditional coating.
3. Egg
- Beaten eggs act as the binder, helping the flour or breadcrumbs adhere to the shrimp.
4. Seasonings
- Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika add flavor to the shrimp. You can also add cayenne pepper or other spices for extra heat.
5. Oil for Frying
- Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are ideal for frying because they have a high smoke point and give the shrimp a crisp finish.
How to Make Fried Shrimp
This fried shrimp recipe is simple to follow and results in perfectly crispy shrimp. Here’s how to prepare it:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on if you prefer. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour or breadcrumbs (or both). In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. Season the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (or any other seasonings you like).
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
- Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then dredge the shrimp in the flour or breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks. Shake off any excess.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat about 1-2 inches of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
- Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the fried shrimp hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a lemon wedge. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Fried Shrimp
1. Dry the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry before coating to ensure the flour or breadcrumbs stick well and create a crispy coating.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
- Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to soggy shrimp. Allow the oil to reheat between batches.
3. Use the Right Oil Temperature
- Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the shrimp. This helps the shrimp cook quickly and evenly without becoming greasy.
4. Serve Immediately
- Fried shrimp is best served hot and fresh, so be sure to enjoy it right after frying for maximum crispiness.
5. Customize the Seasoning
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a bit of cayenne pepper for spice, or try different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Recipe Variations
1. Panko-Crusted Shrimp
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour. The panko will give the shrimp a light, crispy texture.
2. Coconut Shrimp
- Add shredded coconut to the breadcrumb mixture for a tropical twist. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce for a delicious combination.
3. Cornmeal-Crusted Shrimp
- Swap the flour or breadcrumbs for cornmeal to give the shrimp a crunchy, Southern-inspired texture.
4. Spicy Fried Shrimp
- Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a kick of heat. You can also serve the shrimp with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo.
FAQs: Fried Shrimp
1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
- Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
2. How Long Does Fried Shrimp Last?
- Fried shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I Bake the Shrimp Instead of Frying?
- Yes! To bake, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
4. What Should I Serve with Fried Shrimp?
- Fried shrimp pairs well with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
[tasty-recipe id=”2904″]