Description
Learn how to make the crispiest Southern fried shrimp using a quick stove-top method. You will achieve perfectly seasoned, crunchy shrimp ready in minutes to enjoy as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This step is key for crispiness.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and milk or buttermilk together.
- Dip each shrimp first into the wet mixture, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge the shrimp thoroughly in the dry flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat well. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Carefully place shrimp into the hot oil, working in small batches so you do not overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure your oil temperature stays steady for the best crust. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will be greasy.
- For extra Southern flavor, you can substitute half the milk with hot sauce for a slight tang.
- Always dry your shrimp well before breading; moisture prevents the coating from sticking properly.
- This recipe works well with cocktail sauce or a homemade tartar sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Seafood/Main Course
- Method: Deep Frying (Stove Top)
- Cuisine: American Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces
- Calories: Approx. 350
- Sugar: Approx. 1g
- Sodium: Approx. 600mg
- Fat: Approx. 20g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 25g
- Fiber: Approx. 1g
- Protein: Approx. 20g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 150mg