Crispy fried shrimp recipe

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice)

For the breading:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For frying:

• Vegetable oil (canola or peanut oil works well)

Instructions

1. Prep the Shrimp:
   • Rinse and pat dry the shrimp with paper towels.
   • In a bowl, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
   • Add buttermilk and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 1 hour).
2. Prepare the Breading:
   • In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • Pour about 2 inches of oil into a heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer.
   • Heat to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
4. Coat and Fry:
   • Remove shrimp from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
   • Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.
   • Carefully place a few shrimp at a time in the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Serve:
   • Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce (cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or spicy mayo).

Let me know if you’d like a gluten-free or air-fried version!