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Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe

A close-up, appetizing pile of golden brown, crispy fried shrimp dusted with seasoning on a white plate.
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Make the crispiest, golden-brown Southern Fried Shrimp right at home. This easy recipe uses a buttermilk soak and seasoned flour dredge for maximum crunch and flavor, perfect for dinner or an appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail on
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the shrimp, toss to coat completely, and let them soak in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This step helps tenderize the shrimp.
  2. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. This is your seasoned dredge.
  3. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature; maintaining this heat is key for crispiness.
  4. Working in batches, remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the shrimp to create a thick coating.
  5. Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the coating is deep golden brown and crispy.
  6. 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 removing from the oil.
  7. Repeat with the remaining shrimp, allowing the oil temperature to return to 350°F between batches.
  8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauces. This recipe is a great alternative to relying on meal delivery companies for quick seafood.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, double-coat the shrimp: dredge in flour, dip back into the buttermilk briefly, and then dredge again in the flour mixture.
  • If you are planning your weekly meals, consider this recipe alongside a keto meal plan delivery option for variety.
  • Maintain oil temperature strictly between 340°F and 350°F. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
  • This recipe is fantastic served with homemade tartar sauce or classic cocktail sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/crispy-southern-fried-shrimp-recipe/