Popcorn Shrimp is a fun, crispy, bite-sized seafood favorite—perfect as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main dish. It’s called “popcorn shrimp” because the pieces are small enough to pop in your mouth like popcorn!
🦐 What Is Popcorn Shrimp?
It’s typically:
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Small shrimp (often 51/60 or 61/70 count per pound)
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Lightly seasoned and breaded or battered
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Deep-fried or air-fried until golden and crunchy
📝 Easy Popcorn Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb small shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-off)
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1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
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1 cup flour
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1/2 cup cornmeal or panko (for extra crunch)
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Optional for dipping:
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Cocktail sauce
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Remoulade
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Ranch dressing
🔪 Instructions:
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Soak shrimp in buttermilk for 15–30 minutes (helps with tenderness and coating).
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In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, and seasonings.
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Dredge shrimp in the flour mix, pressing lightly to coat.
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Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or skillet (about 2–3 inches deep).
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Fry shrimp in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
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Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
🔄 Variations:
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Air Fryer: Spray coated shrimp with oil and air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.
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Gluten-Free: Use rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
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In a po’ boy sandwich
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Over salad or rice bowls
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As a party platter with lemon wedges and dipping sauces