Description
This Crispy Fried Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality shrimp with a perfectly golden, crunchy coating and tender, juicy inside. The shrimp are coated in a seasoned bread crumb mixture after being dipped in an egg and buttermilk wash, then deep-fried to crisp perfection. Easy and quick to prepare, it’s a perfect appetizer or main dish for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp (16-20 count, peeled and cleaned)
Egg Wash
- 1/4 cup buttermilk or regular milk
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
Breading and Frying
- 2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
- Corn oil or vegetable oil (for frying, enough to fill fryer or deep pan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and clean the shrimp thoroughly, rinsing them under cold running water to remove any residue.
- Butterfly the Shrimp (Optional): Carefully cut through the flesh of each shrimp to open them up, without cutting all the way through, to create a butterflied shrimp for better coating and presentation.
- Make the Egg Wash: In a bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and buttermilk or milk until well combined, forming the egg wash for coating.
- Coat the Shrimp in Egg Wash: Dip each cleaned shrimp into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully covered; allow any excess liquid to drip off.
- Coat with Bread Crumbs: Roll the egg-washed shrimp in the seasoned bread crumbs, pressing lightly to secure an even coating over each shrimp.
- Preheat Oil: Heat corn oil or vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large deep pan to 350-375°F (175-190°C) for optimal frying temperature.
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry the coated shrimp in batches for 2-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Serve: Serve the crispy fried shrimp hot with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying to avoid greasy shrimp.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.
- You can customize the seasoned bread crumbs by adding paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
- Butterflying the shrimp is optional but helps in even cooking and better coating adhesion.
- Drain shrimp well after frying to maintain their crispiness.
