Crispy Fried Shrimp

Crispy Fried Shrimp: A Seafood Sensation

Indulge in the ultimate seafood delight with this Crispy Fried Shrimp recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience. Perfectly seasoned and coated in a crunchy cornmeal and flour mixture, these shrimp are fried to golden perfection, ensuring a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, succulent shrimp inside.

The secret lies in the simple yet flavorful batter, which combines eggs, milk, and a touch of hot sauce for a hint of heat. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon wedges and classic cocktail sauce. Whether served as a mouthwatering appetizer or a satisfying main course, these Crispy Fried Shrimp are sure to become a family favorite. Treat yourself to this seafood sensation and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the irresistible allure of fried shrimp done right.

Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients:

• Canola oil, for frying
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons Chile hot sauce (e.g., Cholula)
• 2 pounds large peeled, deveined raw shrimp
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (about 3 1/4 oz.)
• 2/3 cup cornmeal (about 2 7/8 oz.)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• For serving: lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, rémoulade (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oil: Pour canola oil into a large, deep skillet to a depth of 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 370°F. Use a cooking thermometer to ensure accuracy.
2. Batter the Shrimp: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and hot sauce. Add the shrimp, ensuring each piece is coated. In another shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dredge and Fry: Take 6 to 8 shrimp from the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil. Fry until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain.
4. Serve: Continue frying the remaining shrimp in batches, ensuring the oil returns to 370°F before adding new batches. Serve the crispy fried shrimp hot with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and optional rémoulade for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Fried Shrimp:

• Use large shrimp for a satisfying bite and to prevent overcooking.
• Maintain the oil temperature for crispy results.
• Experiment with different sauces for dipping, such as rémoulade or spicy aioli.
• Fry shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

This recipe captures the essence of crispy fried shrimp, making it a versatile and delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a seafood treat, these shrimp are sure to please.