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Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp with Buttermilk Soak

A close-up of perfectly crispy fried shrimp piled high on a white plate, showcasing the golden-brown breading.
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Learn how to make the best crispy fried shrimp using a simple buttermilk soak and seasoned flour coating. This easy seafood dinner recipe delivers golden, crunchy shrimp perfect for appetizers or a main course.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on optional)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for deep frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, and eggs. Whisk until blended.
  2. In a separate shallow dish, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This is your shrimp coating.
  3. Soak the shrimp in the buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This step helps tenderize the shrimp and makes the coating stick.
  4. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  5. Working in batches, remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to coat completely.
  6. Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove the fried shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt immediately after frying.
  8. Serve your homemade fried shrimp hot with your favorite dipping sauces like cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crispy fried shrimp, double-coat the shrimp: dip them back into the buttermilk briefly after the first flour coating, then coat again in the flour mixture.
  • Maintain the oil temperature between 340°F and 350°F for the best results and to prevent greasy shrimp.
  • Serve this quick seafood dinner immediately for maximum crunch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/crispy-southern-fried-shrimp-recipe/