Southern fried shrimp is great to eat anytime. Nothing is more satisfying than a basket full of crispy delicious shrimp It is easy to make and is great as a main dish, side dish or snack. It is can be served with a dipping sauce such as cocktail sauce. It also pairs well with mac and cheese, dirty rice or french fries. I love them with fries whether it be waffle fries or curly fries. Southern fried shrimp is different from my crispy shrimp because the batter consist of both all-purpose flour and cornmeal. It is that combination that give it that special taste.
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How to Make Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp
How to Choose Shrimp
Before we get started with the recipe, it’s important to know how to choose shrimp to achieve your desired outcome. When choosing shrimp, consider factors such as size, freshness, and whether they are wild-caught or farm-raised. Shrimp size can range from small to colossal and this size range is typically indicated by a number. For example 21/25, meaning 21-25 shrimp per pound.
Freshness is essential when it come to shrimp. When choosing fresh shrimp, look for a firm texture, a mild smell, and no signs of discoloration or black spots, which can indicate age or improper handling. Wild-caught shrimp, are often preferred for their flavor and natural diet, while farm-raised shrimp can vary in quality depending on farming practices. Additionally, pay attention to whether the shrimp are sold with shells on, peeled, deveined, or pre-cooked, as this can affect their taste, texture, and the preparation required for your dish.
Video Tutorial for Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp
Ingredients
Ingredients for Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp:
This recipe is made with simple ingredients you may already have in your pantry.
- Shrimp – This recipe is great for any size shrimp so make sure to choose the size and texture you desire.
- All-Purpose Flour -All-purpose flour creates a light, crispy coating that helps the shrimp to fry evenly.
- Cornmeal – Cornmeal adds a crunchy texture to the coating, enhancing the overall crispiness.
- Egg – Egg acts as a binding agent, helping the coating adhere to the shrimp.
- Milk – Milk is used to create a batter with the egg that ensures the coating sticks well to the shrimp.
- Creole Seasoning – Creole seasoning adds a spicy, robust flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Garlic Powder – Garlic powder infuses the shrimp with a savory, aromatic taste.
- Kosher Salt – Kosher salt enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and the other seasonings.
- Canola Oil – anola oil is ideal for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, ensuring the shrimp cook evenly without burning.
Step 1: Make the Batter for Your Fried Shrimp
For my flour mixture, I use all-purpose flour, cornmeal and select seasoning. This combination cornmeal helps to give the shrimp a crispy coating.
In a bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, Creole seasoning and garlic powder then whisk until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
Step 2: Coating the Shrimp
Dredge the shrimp in the flour and cornmeal mixture, then in the egg mixture and again in the flour cornmeal and mixture. Place them on a wire rack.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Pre-heat the oil to 350 degrees then fry your shrimp for 2-3 minutes depending on your shrimp size. After 2 -3 minutes remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to remove the excess oil.
If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish, southern fried shrimp is a great option. I hope you give this recipe a try.
What to Eat with Crispy Fried Shrimp
Crispy Fried Shrimp can be enjoyed in many ways. As an appetizer it can dipped in your favorite cocktail sauce. It can be the main attraction and serves alongside fries, potato salad or bean salad. Fried shrimp are so versatile. However you choose to serve them you won’t be disappointed.
What to do With Leftover Fried Shrimp
If you have leftovers, have no fear you can store them to enjoy another day. To store leftover fried shrimp, make sure they are at room temperature to prevent condensation and sogginess. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Place the container in the refrigerator. The shrimp will be good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to reheat use an oven or air fryer to help retain their crispiness.
Helpful Tip
Shrimp texture can vary significantly by region in the United States due to differences in species, habitat, and harvesting methods. These regional variations are important when choose shrimp in order to achieve your desired texture and flavor profile. Here is a list of the variety you will find:
- Gulf Coast shrimp: Firm and chewy with a rich sweet flavor
- Atlantic shrimp: Tender and delicate
- Pacific shrimp: Softer texture and a sweet flavor
- Pacific Northwest shrimp: Firmer and more briny
Gulf Coast shrimp, primarily harvested from the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, tend to have a firm, slightly chewy texture and a rich, sweet flavor. Atlantic shrimp, caught along the Southeastern coast, are known for their tender, delicate texture and a milder taste. In contrast, Pacific shrimp, found along the West Coast, often boast a softer texture and a subtly sweet flavor. Additionally, the colder waters of the Pacific Northwest yield shrimp that are firmer and slightly more briny, reflecting their unique environment. These regional variations make it important to choose shrimp based on the desired texture and flavor profile for your specific dish.
Other Great Recipes
- Shrimp and Grits – A Delicious Southern Classic – a southern classic recipe great for any time of day.
- Shrimp Cake Recipe – tasty recipe that you are sure to love.
- Southern Fried Catfish Recipe – a soul food stable that you are sure to enjoy.
- Best Potato Salad Recipe – From the Queen of Soul Food Cooking – a delicious and simple recipe.
Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe
6
servings10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
1 lb Shrimp
1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
1/2 cup Cornmeal
1 Egg
1/2 cup Milk
1 tsp Creole seasoning
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Black Pepper
1 tsp Kosher Salt
Canola Oil
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, Creole seasoning and garlic powder then whisk until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
- Dredge the shrimp in the flour and cornmeal mixture, then in the egg mixture and again in the flour cornmeal and mixture.
- Place them on a wire rack.
- Pre-heat the oil to 350 degrees then fry your shrimp for 2 minutes
- After 2 minutes remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to remove the excess oil.
Recipe Video
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