Frying raw shrimp is a fantastic way to enjoy this seafood favorite with a crispy, golden crust and juicy inside. Whether you’re making a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a main dish, frying shrimp is easy and rewarding. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to fry raw shrimp perfectly every time, including prepping, seasoning, frying techniques, and serving ideas.
Preparing Raw Shrimp for Frying
Before you start frying, it’s important to prep your shrimp properly:
– Peel and devein: Remove the shell and tail for easier eating and better coating. Use a small knife to cut along the back and pull out the dark vein (intestine), which can be gritty.
– Rinse and dry: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp will fry up crispier.
Choosing Your Coating
The coating is what makes fried shrimp so irresistible. Here are popular options:
– Flour and cornmeal mix: A classic Southern-style coating combines all-purpose flour and cornmeal for crunch.
– Seasoned flour: Mix flour with spices like paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne for flavorful crust.
– Cornstarch and egg whites: For an ultra-crispy, light batter, coat shrimp in beaten egg whites and then cornstarch.
Seasoning Ideas
Season your shrimp or coating to taste. Common spices include:
– Salt and black pepper
– Paprika
– Garlic powder or granulated garlic
– Oregano
– Cayenne pepper for heat
– Chili and garlic sautéed after frying for an extra kick
How to Fry Shrimp: Step-by-Step
- Heat the oil: Use a deep skillet, wok, or pot with about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C). You can test by sprinkling a pinch of flour-if it bubbles, the oil is ready.
- Coat the shrimp: Dip shrimp in your chosen wet mixture (milk, buttermilk, or egg whites) then dredge in the seasoned flour or cornstarch until fully coated.
- Fry in batches: Add shrimp carefully to the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and rest: Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Optional seasoning toss: For extra flavor, dry-fry minced garlic and chili in a pan and toss the fried shrimp in this mixture before serving.
Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp
– Don’t overcrowd the pan; it lowers oil temperature and makes shrimp soggy.
– Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best texture.
– Maintain oil temperature between batches by allowing it to reheat if needed.
– For extra crunch, double-dip shrimp in wet and dry mixtures.
– Serve immediately for the crispiest bite.
Serving Suggestions
Fried shrimp is versatile and pairs well with:
– Dipping sauces like honey mustard, tartar sauce, or sweet chili sauce.
– Lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze.
– Side dishes such as coleslaw, fries, or a crisp salad.
– As a main dish over rice or pasta.
Frying raw shrimp is straightforward and yields a deliciously crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality fried shrimp right at home.
Enjoy your cooking!