Golden Crispy Fried Shrimp are a real treat! These tasty shrimp are coated in a light and crunchy batter, making them super fun to eat. Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce!
Whenever I make these, my family can’t resist sneaking a few before dinner is ready. They’re just that good! Don’t forget to serve them with a squeeze of lemon—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for a meaty bite! If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp works too—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide extra crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but the texture might be a bit less crispy.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend that works for frying.
Eggs: They help the breadcrumbs stick. You can use a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) if you need an egg substitute.
Oil: Vegetable oil is commonly used for frying. You could also use canola or peanut oil, which have high smoke points and are great for frying.
How Can You Get Perfectly Crispy Fried Shrimp?
Achieving that golden crispy texture requires some attention to detail, especially with the frying process. Here’s how you can ensure your shrimp come out perfect:
- Before frying, make sure your shrimp are dry. Excess moisture can result in a soggy batter.
- Heat the oil to 350°F. If the oil is too low, the shrimp will absorb more oil instead of frying; if it’s too hot, they can burn quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry shrimp in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and achieve even cooking.
- After frying, place the shrimp on paper towels to absorb excess oil for a less greasy finish.
With these tips, you’ll have a platter of delicious, crispy fried shrimp that everyone will love!
Golden Crispy Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons cold water or milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- Soy sauce or your preferred dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking, making the total time about 25 minutes. In no time at all, you’ll have a delicious platter of crispy shrimp ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and then pat them dry using paper towels. This helps to ensure that they become crispy when fried. Set them aside while you prepare the coating.
2. Mix the Coatings:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This will be your seasoned flour. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and cold water (or milk) until combined. Next, place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl for coating.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to coat the shrimp! Take each shrimp and first dip it into the seasoned flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, and finally, press it gently into the panko breadcrumbs so they adhere well. Repeat this for all the shrimp.
4. Fry the Shrimp:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat, until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your golden crispy fried shrimp on a serving plate. You can garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, like soy sauce or cocktail sauce, for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you can’t find panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work as a substitute. However, they may not provide the same level of crunch. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Shrimp?
Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Prepare the Shrimp in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp up to the breading step in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. This can help make your cooking process quicker when it’s time to serve.