Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe

Introduction

Craving for some crispy and delicious shrimp? Look no further! This Southern Fried Shrimp recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The combination of a flavorful coating and tender shrimp makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself to a tasty meal, this recipe will not disappoint. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the dipping sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Repeat the process until all the shrimp are cooked.
7. In a small bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the dipping sauce until well combined.
8. Serve the fried shrimp hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Variations

This Southern Fried Shrimp recipe can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy Cajun Shrimp:

Add 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the flour mixture for an extra kick of flavor.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp:

Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the cooked shrimp and sprinkle with freshly chopped garlic for a tangy and aromatic twist.

Sweet and Sour Shrimp:

Prepare a sweet and sour sauce by combining 1/4 cup of pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce before serving.

Tips

• For the best results, use fresh shrimp. Look for shrimp that is firm, with a mild smell and no black spots.
• Pat the shrimp dry before coating them in the flour mixture. This will help the coating adhere better.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper in the flour mixture.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the shrimp. If the oil is not hot enough, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become greasy.
• Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. Maintaining a consistent temperature is key to achieving crispy fried shrimp.

Conclusion

This Southern Fried Shrimp recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. The crispy coating combined with succulent shrimp will have everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s a game day snack or a main course for a special dinner, this recipe is versatile and easy to make. So, grab some fresh shrimp and get ready to indulge in a delicious Southern treat!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

While fresh shrimp is always recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen shrimp if fresh is not available. Thaw the shrimp completely before using and pat them dry before coating in the flour mixture.

2. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the shrimp for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the coated shrimp on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are cooked through and crispy.

3. Can I use a different sauce for dipping?

Absolutely! While the provided dipping sauce complements the flavors of the fried shrimp, you can use any sauce of your choice. Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or even a spicy aioli would all work well.

4. How do I store leftover fried shrimp?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.