Golden Crispy Fried Shrimp are a fun and tasty treat! These little shrimp are coated in a crunchy batter and fried until they’re golden brown. They’re perfect for dipping!
Who can resist crispy shrimp? I love serving them with a zesty sauce for extra flavor. They disappear fast at my house, and I can’t blame everyone for going back for seconds! 🦐
Making these is super easy! Just coat, fry, and enjoy—it’s as simple as that! They make a great party snack or a delicious dinner option. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, just make sure the frozen ones are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. For a different flavor, try using scallops or even chicken tenders if you prefer land-based protein.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a wonderful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be quite as crispy. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or even ground nuts can serve as a fun variation.
Eggs: They help the breadcrumbs stick to the shrimp. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using a mixture of cornstarch and water or even unsweetened applesauce as a binder.
Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil, like canola or peanut oil, works best for frying. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado oil can also be a wonderful choice due to its high smoke point.
How Can I Ensure My Shrimp Turns Out Crispy Every Time?
To get that perfect crispy texture, sticking to a few key steps will make a big difference. The breading process is essential; ensure you follow it carefully:
- Start by drying the shrimp well with paper towels. Moisture can prevent the coating from crispening up.
- Set your oil temperature to 350°F (175°C). A kitchen thermometer is your best friend here! Too low, and the shrimp will absorb oil; too high, and you risk burning.
- Fry in batches! Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy shrimp. Aim for a few shrimp at a time.
- After frying, let the shrimp drain on paper towels. This step absorbs excess oil, keeping your shrimp crispy.
How to Make Golden Crispy Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for color and flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
For Frying & Garnish:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sweet chili sauce or your preferred dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes for frying. In total, you should be ready to enjoy your crispy fried shrimp in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to get rid of any impurities. Once washed, pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial; dry shrimp will help the breading stick better!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
You’re going to create a little assembly line! Grab three shallow bowls:
- In the first bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well!
- In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well blended.
- Leave the third bowl empty for the panko breadcrumbs.
Now you’re ready to start breading the shrimp!
3. Bread the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and dredge it in the flour mixture first, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the shrimp in the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Lastly, coat the shrimp with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they stick. Place the breaded shrimp on a plate and repeat until all shrimp are breaded!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or fryer, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about 2 inches deep). Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). A good trick is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden, your oil is ready!
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp in batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Drain and Serve:
Once they’re done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps them crispy! Then, arrange the shrimp on a serving plate, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce—sweet chili sauce is a great choice!
Enjoy your delicious homemade golden crispy fried shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before using them. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or for a quicker method, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This will give you the same crispy texture without the gluten!
How Long Do Leftover Fried Shrimp Last?
Leftover shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best eaten within 1-2 days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C) to maintain their crispy texture.
Can I Bake the Shrimp Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray and bake for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.
