Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Fried Shrimp is a favorite for many reasons:

• Crispy and Flavorful: The batter gives the shrimp a golden, crunchy exterior with a balanced spice profile.

• Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be an expert to make these shrimp—they’re simple and ready in less than 30 minutes.

• Perfectly Juicy: The shrimp stay moist inside, creating a satisfying bite.

• Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a larger seafood meal.

• Great for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual dinner or a party, these shrimp always impress.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Southern Fried Shrimp:

• Shrimp (large, peeled, deveined)

• Buttermilk

• Cornstarch

• All-purpose flour

• Cornmeal

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Paprika

• Cayenne pepper

• Salt & pepper

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Lemon (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. Soak the Shrimp in Buttermilk: Soak shrimp in buttermilk for 15-20 minutes.

3. Make the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine cornstarch, flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

4. Dredge the Shrimp: Coat each shrimp in the mixture, shaking off excess.

5. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).

6. Fry the Shrimp: Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

7. Serve: Drain on paper towels, serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place shrimp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can freeze fried shrimp after cooling completely. When ready to eat, bake at 375°F (190°C).

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using.

2. Can I bake these shrimp instead of frying them?

You can bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier option.

3. Can I make the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat them in advance and refrigerate, then fry before serving.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

5. Can I freeze fried shrimp?

Yes, after frying, freeze on a baking sheet and transfer to a container once frozen. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C).

6. How do I make the shrimp spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or drizzle with hot sauce after frying.

7. Can I use a different oil for frying?

Yes, oils like peanut oil or sunflower oil work well for frying.

8. Can I use a different flour?

Yes, coconut flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute.

9. What’s the best way to check if the oil is hot enough?

Drop a small amount of batter in the oil. If it sizzles and bubbles immediately, the oil is ready.

10. Can I make this recipe spicy without changing the batter?

Yes, toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning or hot sauce after frying.

Conclusion

These Southern Fried Shrimp offer the perfect blend of crispy and juicy, with a flavor that’s sure to impress. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and a satisfying crunch make this recipe a must-try for any seafood lover. Enjoy these shrimp at your next meal, and watch as they become a new favorite!