Description
This Crispy Fried Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with a golden, crunchy coating and tender, juicy shrimp inside. Marinated in buttermilk and lightly spiced with paprika and garlic, these shrimp are deep-fried to perfection and served with fresh lemon wedges for a flavorful and irresistible appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Other
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce, then add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Let them marinate for 15–20 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the breading mixture: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
- Heat the oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot and heat to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying.
- Dredge the shrimp: Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess drip off. Coat each shrimp thoroughly in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good layer of coating.
- Fry the shrimp: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, fry the shrimp in the hot oil for 2–3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove shrimp from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispy shrimp, try double dipping by dredging the shrimp, dipping back into the buttermilk, then dredging again before frying.
- Serve alongside cocktail sauce, remoulade, or spicy mayo for dipping to enhance flavor.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking and prevent greasiness.
