Description
This Crispy Fried Shrimp recipe features a golden, crunchy breading with perfectly tender shrimp inside. Coated in a flavorful seasoned breading and fried to perfection, these shrimp make an irresistible appetizer or main dish. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce for a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home!
Ingredients
Scale
or the Shrimp:
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk (or substitute with 1 cup buttermilk)
- 1 lb large uncooked shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails optional)
- 1.5 quarts vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp:
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry. Remove shells and veins if necessary, leaving the tails on if desired.
- In a wide bowl, mix sour cream and milk until it resembles buttermilk.
- Add the shrimp to the mixture and coat evenly. Let it soak at room temperature for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Breading:
- In a separate wide bowl, mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings until well combined.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
- Lightly shake off excess marinade from each shrimp.
- Coat thoroughly in the breading mixture, ensuring no part of the shrimp is left exposed.
- If any shrimp look damp, re-dip in the breading to ensure full coverage.
4. Heat the Oil:
- In a deep pot or Dutch oven, heat oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C).
- Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of breading—if it rises and fries immediately, it’s ready.
5. Fry the Shrimp:
- Fry in small batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove shrimp and transfer them to a cooling rack.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
-
- Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces (cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or spicy mayo).
Notes
- Extra Crunchy: Double-dip shrimp in the breading for an extra crispy coating.
- Oil Temperature Tip: Maintaining the oil at 350-375°F ensures the breading stays crispy and doesn’t absorb too much oil.
- Serving Idea: Pair with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
