There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion appetizer, this dish always disappears in minutes. The beauty of fried shrimp lies in its simplicity. With a handful of fresh ingredients and a simple batter, you can recreate this restaurant-favorite right in your own kitchen.
Let me, your guide to all things fried and delicious, walk you through the steps to create the crispiest, juiciest fried shrimp you’ve ever tasted. I promise, it’s easier than you think!
Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20-24)
- Pro Tip: While I prefer large shrimp for their juicy texture, you can absolutely use smaller ones. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
- Cornstarch: 1/2 cup
- Chef’s Note: Adding cornstarch to the flour creates an extra crispy coating.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, plus more to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to your liking
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, but adds a nice smoky flavor)
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Milk: 1/2 cup
- Oil for Frying: Canola, vegetable, or peanut oil work best, about 3-4 cups
Tools of the Trade
No fancy equipment needed here! Just a few basic kitchen essentials:
- Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need two – one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet batter.
- Whisk: For mixing the batter until smooth.
- Tongs: To safely handle the shrimp during frying.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Choose a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution.
- Wire Rack: To drain the fried shrimp and maintain their crispiness.
Let’s Get Frying!
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispy fried food, so make sure they’re completely dry.
- If using large shrimp, you can butterfly them for more surface area, which means more crispy coating!
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together until well blended.
- In the second mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
Step 3: The Dredging Station
- Now it’s time to coat the shrimp. First, dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Dip the floured shrimp into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl.
- Finally, return the shrimp to the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a nice, even coating.
Step 4: Frying Time!
- Heat the oil in your skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle in a pinch of flour. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go.
- Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.
- Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
- Using tongs, remove the fried shrimp from the oil and place them on the wire rack to drain any excess oil. This step is crucial for maintaining their crispiness.
- Serve your golden-brown, crispy fried shrimp immediately while they’re hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Fried Shrimp Perfection
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Keep It Hot: To keep the first batch of shrimp warm while you fry the rest, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C).
- Flavor Variations: Get creative with the batter! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or experiment with different herbs and spices like Old Bay seasoning or lemon pepper.
Plate of golden fried shrimp with dipping sauces
What to Serve with Your Fried Shrimp
Fried shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorites:
- Classic Sides: Serve them up with a side of stir-fried cabbage with dried shrimp or stir-fried okra with shrimp for a taste of Southern comfort food.
- Fresh and Light: Balance the richness of the fried shrimp with a light and refreshing salad or a side of steamed vegetables.
- Dip It: Don’t forget the dipping sauces! Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and remoulade sauce are classic choices.
Family smiling and enjoying a dinner of fried shrimp
FAQs About Frying Shrimp
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: While fresh shrimp is always best, you can use frozen shrimp in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating and frying.
Q: My shrimp turned out soggy. What went wrong?
A: Soggy shrimp are usually a result of overcrowding the pan or not getting the oil hot enough. Make sure to fry the shrimp in batches and test the oil temperature before adding them to the pan.
Q: Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Time to Get Cooking!
So there you have it—a foolproof guide to making unbelievably crispy and juicy fried shrimp at home. Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare for a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece with us! Snap a photo and tag us on social media. And be sure to explore our website for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration.
