Crispy Golden Fried Shrimp: A Seafood Delight

Ingredients

1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup of cornstarch
Oil for frying, canola or vegetable

Steps and instructions

Start by rinsing the shrimp in cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs.
Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 2 inches deep.
Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp one at a time. Avoid overcrowding the pan - you may need to fry the shrimp in batches.
Fry the shrimp until golden brown, typically 2-3 minutes per side.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried shrimp from the oil and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serve the fried shrimp immediately, while still hot.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowls - You'll need at least two mixing bowls, one for the flour mixture and one for the beaten eggs.
Frying Pan - A large frying pan with high sides is ideal for frying the shrimp.
Whisk - Use a whisk to beat the eggs until well combined.
Slotted Spoon - A slotted spoon will help you remove the fried shrimp from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drain.
Paper Towels - You'll need paper towels to absorb excess oil from the fried shrimp.

Recipe variations

Use seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of panko breadcrumbs for a different texture and flavor.
Add spices or herbs to the flour mixture, such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
Try using a different type of flour for coating the shrimp, such as cornmeal, almond flour, or coconut flour for a gluten-free option.
Experiment with different seasonings or marinades for the shrimp before coating and frying, such as Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, or a lemon-pepper marinade.
For a healthier alternative, bake the shrimp instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp is cooked through and crispy.
Replace shrimp with other seafood like scallops or even fish fillets for a variation in flavors.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the shrimp with tofu or tempeh. Press and drain the tofu or tempeh, cut into desired shapes, and follow the same breading and frying process.

Recipe overview

Indulge in this delicious, crispy Fried Shrimp recipe that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy appetizer for your next get-together. These shrimps are lightly seasoned and coated with a crunchy layer of panko breadcrumbs, then deep-fried to golden-brown perfection. The result is a flavorful, crunchy exterior with a sweet and juicy interior, which is hard to resist. The recipe is straightforward and requires basic kitchen ingredients. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve up a seafood feast that's sure to impress. Enjoy these fried shrimps on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Common questions

How do I peel and devein the shrimp? To peel the shrimp, hold the body and gently twist off the head. Then, peel off the shell starting from the underside. To devein, use a small sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp, exposing the dark vein. Use the tip of the knife or a toothpick to lift and remove the vein.
Can I use a different type of breadcrumb? Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs. However, the texture may be slightly different.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying? Yes, you can use canola, vegetable, or any other neutral-flavored oil suitable for frying.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients used are gluten-free.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.
What can I serve with fried shrimp? Fried shrimp pairs well with various dipping sauces such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a spicy aioli. It can be served as an appetizer, with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Serving dishes and utensils

Frying pan - A large frying pan or skillet for frying the shrimp.
Paper towels - To absorb excess oil from the fried shrimp.
Slotted spoon - To remove the fried shrimp from the oil.
Bowls - Several bowls for coating the shrimp with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Whisk - To beat the eggs for coating the shrimp.
Tongs - Optional, for turning the shrimp while frying.

Origin stories

While the exact origins of fried shrimp are somewhat murky, the dish is firmly entrenched in both Asian and Southern United States culinary traditions. In Asia, tempura style fried shrimp traces its roots back to the 16th century when Portuguese missionaries and traders introduced the concept of batter frying to Japan. On the other side of the globe, in the Southern United States, frying shrimp was a practicality born out of the region's wealth of shrimp and a need for simple, hearty meals. Farmers and fishermen alike would coat their catch in cornmeal, then fry it up for a quick, delicious meal. It's a testament to the dish's universal appeal that it has found a place in such diverse cuisines, and continues to be a beloved treat around the globe.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.