Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp

Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp: A Flavorful Delight

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp, and this Southern-style recipe promises just that, with a golden, crispy exterior enveloping the succulent shrimp within. Not only is this dish a hit at gatherings, but it also makes for a delightful weeknight treat. Here’s how you can bring this mouthwatering dish to your table.

Ingredients

US Customary – Metric

• For the Shrimp
  • ¾ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 lb. large uncooked shrimp, deveined (tails optional)
  • 1.5 quarts (6 cups) vegetable oil for frying

For the Breading

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 ½ teaspoons seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon each: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper

Directions

1. Prep Work: Start by setting up your frying station. Place cooling racks over a baking sheet to let the fried shrimp drain while staying crispy. Thaw the shrimp completely if frozen and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.
2. Marinate: In a wide container, whisk together the sour cream and milk until you achieve a buttermilk-like consistency. Add the shrimp to the container, spooning the mixture over them to ensure they’re fully coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes; this helps the breading stick better and enhances the flavor.
3. Breading: In a separate wide container, combine all the breading ingredients. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Frying: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 375°F (190°C). Once the oil is hot, take the marinated shrimp and coat them thoroughly in the breading mixture. Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil’s temperature and result in less crispy shrimp. Each batch should take about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve: Transfer the fried shrimp to the prepared cooling racks. This step ensures any excess oil drips away and the shrimp remain crispy on all sides. Serve hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a spicy mayo.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

This Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or just making a special meal for the family, these shrimp are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful crunch and savory spices of this classic Southern dish tonight!

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