Treat your taste buds to the irresistible flavors of the South with our Southern Fried Shrimp recipe. Learn the secrets to achieving perfectly crispy and seasoned shrimp that are bound to become a family favorite. Get ready for a mouthwatering seafood experience!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or regular milk)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the batter adhere better.
2. Set Up a Breading Station:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoned flour mixture.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk to create an egg wash.
3. Bread the Shrimp:
- Dip each shrimp into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the coated shrimp into the egg wash.
- Allow any excess egg wash to drip off.
- Finally, coat the shrimp again with the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the shrimp to create a good coating.
4. Heat the Oil:
- In a deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
5. Fry the Shrimp:
- Carefully place the breaded shrimp into the hot oil using tongs.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn golden brown and the coating is crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Southern Fried Shrimp hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.
Taste the essence of Southern cuisine with our Southern Fried Shrimp recipe, a delectable dish full of crispy and flavorful delights. Discover the secrets to perfectly seasoned, golden brown shrimp that will make your taste buds dance with delight. This recipe is a must-try whether you’re hosting a seafood feast or simply craving a taste of the South. With each bite of these succulent and expertly fried shrimp, you’ll be transported to the world of Southern comfort food. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a truly satisfying culinary experience that will please seafood fans of all ages. Prepare to savor the flavor of the South on a plate!