Southern Fried Shrimp

Introduction

Southern Fried Shrimp is a classic dish loved for its crispy, golden coating and tender, flavorful shrimp. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, this dish captures the essence of Southern cooking with its bold seasoning and crunchy texture. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable oil for frying

Preparation Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for 30 minutes before coating.

Use fresh shrimp for the best taste, but frozen shrimp can work if properly thawed and patted dry.

Ensure the oil is hot enough (about 350°F or 175°C) for a crisp coating.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the shrimp in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they’re fully coated.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

1. Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off.
2. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Place the coated shrimp on a plate or tray.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully add the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the fried shrimp warm with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Description

Southern Fried Shrimp is a crowd-pleasing dish with its perfectly seasoned, crispy coating and tender shrimp inside. It’s a quick and flavorful way to bring Southern comfort to your table.

Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 320

Protein: 18g

Carbohydrates: 22g

Fat: 16g

Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
   Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
2. What oil is best for frying?
   Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil work well due to their high smoke points.
3. Can I bake or air-fry the shrimp instead?
   Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or air-fry at the same temperature for 8–10 minutes.

Recommendations

Serve with coleslaw or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Add a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for a classic Southern flavor.

Pair with a chilled glass of sweet tea or lemonade for the ultimate Southern experience.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Shrimp is a timeless recipe that’s crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and savor the delicious taste of the South!