
Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe: A Restaurant-Style Delight at Home
Craving perfectly crispy fried shrimp with a golden crust and juicy interior? This easy-to-follow recipe will bring restaurant-quality fried shrimp right to your kitchen. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or main dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients for Crispy Fried Shrimp
For the shrimp:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
For the batter:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) cold sparkling water (or plain cold water)
For frying:
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
For serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and set aside.
2. Make the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add cold sparkling water while whisking until the batter reaches a smooth, pancake-like consistency. Avoid overmixing.
3. Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure consistent frying temperature.
4. Coat and Fry the Shrimp
- Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil, a few at a time. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the crispy fried shrimp hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp
- Keep the batter cold: Cold sparkling water helps create a light and crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Test the oil temperature: Use a thermometer or drop a small amount of batter into the oil. It should sizzle immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality Results: Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Versatile: Pair with salads, fries, or use in shrimp tacos for a complete meal.
FAQs About Fried Shrimp
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
2. What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for frying.
3. How do I store leftover fried shrimp?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Bring the flavors of your favorite seafood restaurant to your home with this crispy fried shrimp recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try it today and share your experience in the comments below!