Fried shrimp is one of the most popular seafood dishes around the world, loved for its crispy, golden coating and tender, juicy inside. Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, fried shrimp is always a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home using simple ingredients and a few expert frying techniques.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through an authentic fried shrimp recipe, covering everything from the perfect batter to expert frying tips and delicious dipping sauce pairings. Follow along to create restaurant-quality fried shrimp right in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Fried Shrimp Recipe
✔ Crispy & Crunchy – Achieve the perfect golden-brown texture.
✔ Juicy & Flavorful – The shrimp stays tender inside.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ No Special Equipment Needed – Just a frying pan and basic ingredients.
✔ Versatile Dish – Serve as an appetizer, main course, or party snack.
Ingredients for the Best Fried Shrimp
For the Crispy Coating:
- 250g self-rising flour – Ensures a light, airy crunch.
- 1 tbsp kosher salt – Enhances the flavor.
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning – Adds a classic seafood touch.
- ½ tsp black pepper – Provides a mild spice.
For the Wet Batter:
- 4 cups yogurt – Creates a sticky base for the flour to adhere.
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil – Enough for deep frying.
- 1 kg medium shrimp – Peeled and deveined.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Mix
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together:
✅ Self-rising flour
✅ Kosher salt
✅ Old Bay seasoning
✅ Black pepper - Set this aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Coating
- In another small bowl, add yogurt.
- This will help the flour stick and create a thick, crunchy crust.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- Pour vegetable oil into a cast iron skillet or deep frying pan.
- Heat over medium-high until the temperature reaches 375°F (190°C).
- Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor oil temperature.
Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp completely dry using a paper towel.
- Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- Next, dip into the yogurt, covering the entire shrimp.
- Finally, dip back into the flour mixture for a double-coating.
Step 5: Shake Off Excess Flour
- After each coating, gently shake off excess flour.
- This prevents clumping and ensures even frying.
Step 6: Fry the Shrimp
- Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil.
- Fry in small batches for 2-3 minutes, flipping once.
- The shrimp should turn golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 7: Keep the Shrimp Warm
- Sprinkle with extra salt to taste.
- Place fried shrimp in an oven at 200°F (93°C) to keep warm while cooking the rest.
How to Serve Fried Shrimp
Dipping Sauce Ideas:
🔥 Classic Cocktail Sauce – Ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice.
🔥 Spicy Sriracha Mayo – Sriracha mixed with mayonnaise and lime.
🔥 Garlic Butter Dip – Melted butter infused with garlic and parsley.
🔥 Honey Mustard Sauce – A sweet and tangy alternative.
Side Dish Pairings:
🥗 Coleslaw – A crunchy, refreshing side.
🍟 French Fries – A classic seafood pairing.
🌽 Grilled Corn on the Cob – Adds a smoky sweetness.
🥑 Avocado Salad – Creamy and fresh.
Tips for the Perfect Fried Shrimp
✔ Pat shrimp dry before coating – This helps the batter stick.
✔ Use fresh oil – Old oil can affect the flavor.
✔ Maintain oil temperature at 375°F – Prevents soggy shrimp.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in small batches for even cooking.
✔ Double-coat for extra crispiness – Adds more crunch!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them very dry before coating.
2. Can I bake or air-fry instead of deep-frying?
Absolutely!
- Oven: Bake at 425°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.
3. How do I store and reheat fried shrimp?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to keep it crispy.
4. What is the best oil for frying shrimp?
- Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil – These have high smoke points and won’t alter the taste.
5. Can I use buttermilk instead of yogurt?
Yes! Buttermilk works great as a wet batter, adding a mild tangy flavor.
Conclusion
Making crispy fried shrimp at home is easier than you think! With simple ingredients, a few frying tips, and the right seasonings, you can enjoy restaurant-style fried shrimp anytime.
Serve it with your favorite dipping sauces, a squeeze of fresh lemon, and a delicious side, and you’ll have a seafood feast that everyone will love.
Try this easy and fail-proof fried shrimp recipe today, and enjoy the perfect balance of crunch and juiciness in every bite!