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Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp

Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp That Will Make You Swoon

Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp delivers a crunchy, succulent experience perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound fresh shrimp Substitution: Use thawed frozen shrimp if fresh isn’t available.
For the Buttermilk Marinade
  • 1 cup buttermilk Substitution: Mix milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar for a DIY buttermilk.
For the Breading
  • 1 cup flour Substitution: Use rice flour for a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal Opt for gluten-free cornmeal if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Feel free to swap for smoked paprika for a richer flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne Adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying
  • 2 cups vegetable oil Tip: Peanut oil works wonderfully thanks to its high smoke point.
To Serve
  • 1 lemon lemon wedges A fresh garnish for balance.

Equipment

  • deep skillet
  • whisk
  • Thermometer
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by rinsing the fresh shrimp under cool water and patting them completely dry with paper towels. Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for 15 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.
  3. Once the shrimp have marinated, remove them from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing gently for an even coating.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet and heat it to 350°F. This ensures your shrimp crisp up beautifully without absorbing too much oil.
  5. Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in small batches. Fry them for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  6. Once fried, transfer the shrimp to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  7. Serve your Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp immediately, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges for a zesty touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 4servingsCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 220mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Enjoy the shrimp fresh out of the fryer for the best experience, as they will stay crispy longer when served right away, allowing flavors to shine.

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