These golden crispy fried shrimp are perfect for a tasty snack or a fun dinner! With a crunchy coating and juicy shrimp inside, they’re a real treat.
Making these is like a seafood party at home! 🥳 I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon and some dipping sauce for extra flavor. It’s just too good to resist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for a satisfying bite! If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works fine. Just make sure to thaw them the day before or give them a cold water rinse to defrost quickly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a fantastic crunch, but if you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs will work too. For an extra twist, try crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers.
Coconut: Shredded coconut adds a unique flavor and extra crunch! If you’re not a fan or are allergic, just leave it out. The shrimp will still taste fantastic without it.
Vegetable Oil: Any high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil is perfect for frying. Olive oil isn’t advised as it has a lower heat tolerance and can change flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch When Frying Shrimp?
Achieving a crispy and golden coating is all about the breading and frying process. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Ensure the shrimp are dry before you start breading. Moisture can prevent the coating from sticking.
- Coat completely in the flour mix first, as it helps the egg stick. Make sure to shake off any excess flour.
- Press the shrimp gently into the panko mixture so it sticks well. This is key for that crunchy texture!
- Keep the oil at the right temperature. If too hot, the outside burns too quickly; too cool, and the shrimp will absorb oil and taste greasy.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Fry the shrimp in batches to maintain the oil temperature and get an even cook.
Following these tips will ensure your fried shrimp come out crispy and delicious every time!
Golden Crispy Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (optional for extra crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious, crispy fried shrimp!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp in cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. It’s important they are dry to help the coating stick later on.
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
Get three shallow bowls ready for breading the shrimp. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until they’re well mixed. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the shredded coconut, if you’re using it.
3. Bread the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and first dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Shake off any extra flour. Then, dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat the shrimp in the panko-coconut mix, pressing gently so that it sticks well.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan or fryer, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom about 2 inches deep. Aim for a temperature of 350°F (175°C). You can check if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it bubbles and browns, you’re good to go!
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully place the breaded shrimp into the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Arrange your golden crispy shrimp on a serving plate, and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. Don’t forget the lemon wedges for a zesty touch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy fried shrimp immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces, like sweet chili sauce or cocktail sauce. Delicious!
Now sit back, enjoy your crunchy, golden, and scrumptious fried shrimp! 🦐✨
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Ensure they are well-drained and patted dry before breading.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but for a similar crunch, you can use crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers. Just remember that using different types may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Fried Shrimp?
Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a healthier version, consider baking the shrimp instead of frying. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until crispy and cooked through, flipping halfway for even cooking.