🍤 Crispy Fried Shrimp
Ingredients (Serves 4):
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
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1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cornmeal (for extra crunch – optional)
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Oil for frying (vegetable, peanut, or canola)
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Optional: lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or cocktail sauce for serving
🔪 Instructions:
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Prep shrimp:
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Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
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Soak in buttermilk for at least 10–15 minutes (helps with coating and tenderness).
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Prepare breading:
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In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal (if using), paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
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Bread the shrimp:
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Remove shrimp from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
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Dredge in flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
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Shake off excess and set aside on a tray.
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Heat oil:
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In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
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Fry shrimp:
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Fry in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Serve:
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Serve hot with dipping sauces and lemon wedges.
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Would you like a Southern-style, coconut, or air fryer version of fried shrimp too?