Best Crunchy Fried Shrimp Recipe

ByEmma

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly fried shrimp—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, craving a seafood treat, or just want to impress your family, this Best Crunchy Fried Shrimp Recipe is your golden ticket to shrimp heaven. Let’s dive in and make magic happen in your kitchen!

Contents

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe isn’t just about frying shrimp; it’s about creating a symphony of textures and flavors. The secret lies in the double-dredging technique, which ensures an extra-crunchy coating that stays put. Plus, the blend of spices in the seasoning mix adds a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Pro Tip: Always use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp can work too, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid soggy coating.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make the crispiest, most flavorful fried shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails on or off—your choice!)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for that extra crunch)
  • 1 cup cornmeal (this is the secret weapon for ultimate crispiness)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by cleaning your shrimp. If they’re not already peeled and deveined, do that first. Leave the tails on if you want a fancy presentation, or remove them for easier eating. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels—this step is crucial to ensure the coating sticks properly.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Get three shallow bowls ready:

  1. Bowl 1: Flour mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
  2. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
  3. Bowl 3: A mix of panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.

Pro Tip: Add a pinch of salt to the egg mixture to season every layer of the coating.

Step 3: Dredge Like a Pro

Here’s where the magic happens:

  1. Coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off.
  3. Roll it in the panko-cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, thick coating.

For extra crunch, repeat the egg and panko-cornmeal steps. Yes, double-dredging is the way to go!

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tip: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, the coating will burn before the shrimp cooks through. Too cool, and the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Transfer the fried shrimp to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with a little extra salt while they’re still hot.

Serving Suggestions

These crunchy fried shrimp are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or spicy aioli. Or, turn them into a main course by pairing them with french fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

For a fun twist, try making shrimp tacos by stuffing them into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, lime crema, and a drizzle of hot sauce.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Keep it crispy: If you’re frying in batches, keep the cooked shrimp warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish the rest.
  2. Gluten-free option: Swap the flour and panko for gluten-free alternatives. The cornmeal will still give you that fantastic crunch.
  3. Air fryer hack: For a lighter version, spray the breaded shrimp with cooking oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Final Thoughts

This Best Crunchy Fried Shrimp Recipe is a game-changer. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for special occasions. The combination of panko and cornmeal creates a coating that’s shatteringly crisp, while the spices add just the right amount of flavor.

So, roll up your sleeves, heat that oil, and get ready to fry up the best shrimp of your life. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at fried shrimp the same way again.

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