Fried shrimp is a beloved dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you want a quick appetizer or a main course, making fried shrimp at home is easier than you think. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you create golden, crunchy fried shrimp that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup flour (for breading mix)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon water (optional, for egg wash)
– 1 cup panko bread crumbs
– 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (or your favorite seafood seasoning)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
– Optional garnishes: lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, fresh parsley
Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp
Start by seasoning the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning or a mix of paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the shrimp well to coat evenly. This seasoning adds a delicious flavor base before breading.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Create three shallow dishes or bowls:
– Bowl 1: Flour (about 3/4 cup)
– Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and a tablespoon of water (this helps the coating stick better)
– Bowl 3: Mix panko bread crumbs with 1/2 cup flour
This three-step breading process ensures a crispy, fluffy outer crust.
Step 3: Bread the Shrimp
Using one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet helps keep things neat:
- Dredge each shrimp in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip it into the egg wash, letting the excess drip off.
- Coat the shrimp in the panko-flour mixture, pressing lightly to help the crumbs stick.
Place the breaded shrimp on a plate in a single layer until all are coated.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour about an inch of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Heat the oil to 350-400°F (175-200°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a few breadcrumbs in-if they sizzle immediately, you’re good to go.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can make them soggy. Cook each batch for 1-2 minutes per side until the breading turns golden brown and the shrimp are cooked through. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch closely to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
Use a slotted spoon or metal strainer to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt while still hot.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your fried shrimp immediately for the best crunch. Pair them with classic cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or just a squeeze of fresh lemon. They also go great with sides like baked potatoes, coconut rice, or a fresh green salad.
Fried shrimp can also be made with alternative coatings like sweet potato starch for an extra crunchy texture without traditional dredging. This method involves tossing shrimp in starch and frying in hot oil until crisp, offering a slightly different but equally delicious result.
Making fried shrimp at home is straightforward and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality crispy shrimp anytime. Ready to try it yourself? What dipping sauce will you pair with your fried shrimp?