Crispy Fried Shrimp – The Perfect Snack or Main Course
If you’re craving a crispy, golden-brown seafood treat, look no further than these Crispy Fried Shrimp! Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course, these shrimp are coated in a light, crunchy batter and fried to perfection. With a burst of flavor in every bite, they are sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
To make these crispy fried shrimp, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup cold water
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make crispy fried shrimp:
- Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the batter adhere better. - Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. - Heat the Oil
Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready for frying when it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test this by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil – if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready. - Coat the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into the batter, making sure it is fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing the shrimp in the hot oil. - Fry the Shrimp
Carefully place the battered shrimp into the hot oil, one at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. - Serve
Serve the crispy fried shrimp hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Fried Shrimp
- Crispy and Golden: The light batter creates a crispy, golden crust that locks in all the delicious juices from the shrimp.
- Perfectly Seasoned: The seasoning is just right, with a bit of heat from the cayenne pepper (optional) and savory flavors from the garlic and onion powder.
- Quick and Easy: These shrimp come together quickly and are a great option when you’re craving something crispy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to ensure the oil temperature remains consistent and the shrimp cook evenly.
- Use Cold Water for the Batter: Cold water helps create a crispier batter, so make sure to use chilled water for the best results.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat, you can omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness: For an even thicker crust, you can dip the shrimp in the batter twice before frying.
Conclusion
These Crispy Fried Shrimp are the perfect balance of crunchy, juicy, and flavorful. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Try them today and enjoy the crispy, golden goodness!
