Fried Shrimps

Classic Fried Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Flour:
   • In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Prepare the Wet Mixture:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined.
4. Set Up the Breading Station:
   • Place the breadcrumbs or panko in a third bowl. Line up the bowls in the following order: seasoned flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs.
5. Bread the Shrimp:
   • Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured shrimp into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Finally, coat the shrimp with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.
6. Heat the Oil:
   • Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 60 seconds.
7. Fry the Shrimp:
   • Working in batches, carefully place the breaded shrimp into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.
8. Drain and Serve:
   • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining shrimp.
   • Serve the fried shrimp hot with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley, if desired. They can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips:

• For extra crispy shrimp, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Ensure the oil temperature is consistent to avoid greasy shrimp.
• If you prefer, you can add a splash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious homemade fried shrimp!