Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, Southern Fried Shrimp is a true seafood lover’s dream! This classic Southern dish features fresh shrimp coated in a perfectly seasoned cornmeal batter and fried until crunchy and delicious. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or in a po’boy sandwich, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress.
Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp :
If you love crispy fried seafood, you’ll adore this Southern Fried Shrimp recipe! It brings together the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, thanks to a simple but flavorful batter made from cornmeal and spices. Serve it with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an irresistible Southern treat.
History of the Recipe :
Fried shrimp has been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, deeply rooted in coastal communities where seafood is abundant. Traditional Southern-style frying uses a cornmeal-based coating, which creates an extra crispy texture. Inspired by Creole and Cajun flavors, this dish became popular across the Southern U.S., especially in states like Louisiana, Georgia, and South Carolina. Today, it remains a beloved dish, served at seafood shacks, family gatherings, and restaurants nationwide.
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Southern Fried Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix buttermilk with hot sauce and add the shrimp. Let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Coat the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Drain & Serve: Remove shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges and dipping sauce of choice.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp (thawed) works as well.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; add more cayenne for extra heat.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they cook quickly and should remain tender inside.
Tips for Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp :
- Crispier Shrimp: Double coat the shrimp by dipping it back in buttermilk and cornmeal mixture before frying.
- Alternative Coating: If you prefer a lighter coating, use only flour instead of cornmeal.
- Best Oil for Frying: Use vegetable, peanut, or canola oil for deep-frying.
FAQs for Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp :
Q: Can I bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: What dipping sauces pair well with fried shrimp?
A: Cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, remoulade, or a simple garlic aioli work great.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: No, raw shrimp is best for frying. Pre-cooked shrimp will become rubbery when fried.
Conclusion :
Recipe is a crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Whether served with fries, coleslaw, or in a sandwich, this golden-fried delight is a true Southern classic. Try this recipe for a restaurant-quality meal right at home!