Fried shrimp is a beloved dish that brings together the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy interior. This classic seafood recipe is a staple in many coastal cuisines and is known for its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether served as an appetizer, a main dish, or a tasty addition to a seafood platter, fried shrimp never fails to impress.
My first experience with fried shrimp was during a family vacation at the beach. The local seafood shack served the best fried shrimp I had ever tasted, and I was determined to recreate that experience at home. After a few tries, I found the perfect balance of spices and breading to achieve that irresistible crunch and flavor. This recipe is a homage to those beachside memories and has become a family favorite that we enjoy making together.
Ingredients
Canola oil
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Cholula)
2 pounds large peeled, deveined raw shrimp
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (about 3 1/4 oz.)
2/3 cup cornmeal (about 2 7/8 oz.)
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For serving: lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, rémoulade (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oil and Coating Mixtures
Heat the Oil:
Pour canola oil to a depth of 2 inches in a large deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 370°F (190°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature and ensure it remains steady.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
While the oil is heating, whisk together 2 large beaten eggs, 1 cup whole milk, and 2 tablespoons hot sauce in a shallow dish. This mixture will help the breading adhere to the shrimp and add a layer of flavor.
Prepare the Flour Mixture:
In a separate shallow dish, whisk together 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup cornmeal, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. This blend of dry ingredients forms the crispy coating for the shrimp.
Step 2: Coat and Fry the Shrimp
Coat the Shrimp:
Add the 2 pounds of large peeled and deveined raw shrimp to the egg mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to sit in the mixture for a few minutes while you prepare the flour mixture.
Dredge the Shrimp:
Working in batches, remove 6 to 8 shrimp from the egg mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, turning to coat them evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess coating.
Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil. Fry until the coating is golden and crisp, about 2 minutes. The shrimp should be opaque and fully cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried shrimp from the oil, and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Repeat the Process:
Repeat the coating and frying process with the remaining shrimp, making sure to bring the oil back to 370°F between batches. This ensures that each batch of shrimp fries evenly and becomes perfectly crispy.
Step 3: Serve
Prepare for Serving:
Once all the shrimp are fried and drained, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve the fried shrimp hot, accompanied by lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and rémoulade if desired. These condiments add a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich, crispy shrimp.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Spices: Customize the flavor of the breading by adding different spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of Old Bay seasoning.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy texture, substitute the cornmeal with panko breadcrumbs.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spicier Shrimp: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicier kick.
Air Fryer Option: For a healthier alternative, try air frying the shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Conclusion
Fried shrimp is a versatile and delectable dish that can be enjoyed in various settings, from casual family dinners to elegant parties. The combination of crispy coating and tender shrimp makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear quickly.
The ease of preparation and the ability to customize the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs make this dish even more appealing. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with different spices and coatings, fried shrimp is always a delightful treat.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious fried shrimp recipe with your loved ones, and create wonderful memories around the table.
