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Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe

A tall stack of golden brown, crispy fried shrimp piled high on a white plate.
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Follow this easy tutorial to make perfectly juicy, golden fried shrimp with a crispy crust. This recipe uses a buttermilk soak and double dredge for maximum crunch.

Ingredients

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  • 2 pounds extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail on
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Creole seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp very dry using paper towels. This step helps the coating stick.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce until combined. Set aside.
  3. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Creole seasoning, and black pepper. This is your seasoned flour mixture.
  4. Dip the dried shrimp into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
  5. Dredge the shrimp thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to coat all sides. For extra crispiness, dip the coated shrimp back into the buttermilk mixture briefly, then dredge again in the flour mixture (double dredge). Place coated shrimp on a wire rack.
  6. Pour enough oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  7. Working in batches, carefully lower the shrimp into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot, as this lowers the oil temperature.
  8. Fry the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Remove the fried shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
  10. Serve immediately with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce, like cocktail or tartar sauce.

Notes

  • For the best results and a truly crispy fried shrimp coating, make sure your oil temperature stays steady around 350°F.
  • If you prefer a less spicy flavor, omit the hot sauce from the buttermilk soak.
  • This recipe works well for making quick shrimp appetizers or a full seafood dinner.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/crispy-fried-shrimp-recipe-southern-style/