By Michele With a delightful crispiness on the exterior and a succulent tenderness within, Southern Fried Shrimp is the perfect solution for all your seafood cravings. Whether it’s a cherished choice for family gatherings or a highlight for special occasions, this dish represents the epitome of culinary enjoyment!
INGREDIENTS
TO START:
- raw shrimp – peeled and deveined.
- vegetable oil – to fry your shrimp.
- lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, etc. – condiments for your shrimp, as desired!
FOR THE WET MIXTURE:
- oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt – these seasonings create all the base flavor that coats your shrimp.
- milk – well, you need something to make the wet mixture wet, after all!
FOR THE DRY MIXTURE:
- all-purpose flour – necessary for any frying!
- oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper – you might be wondering why we’re coating your shrimp with the same mixture again. The answer? More flavor, inside and out!
EQUIPMENT
- deep fryer or large skillet – this is where you’ll make your southern fried shrimp!
- large bowl – to combine all your wet ingredients.
- medium bowl – to combine your dry ingredients.
HOW TO MAKE IT:
Warm up the oil: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a spacious skillet until it reaches a temperature of 375°F.
Immerse the shrimp in the wet blend: Combine the shrimp with the wet mixture ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring thorough mixing. Allow the mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes.
Cover the shrimp in the dry blend: In a medium-sized bowl, merge all the dry mixture ingredients. If needed, work in batches, taking the shrimp from the wet mixture and transferring them to the dry mix. Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the flour mixture.
Achieve a golden perfection by frying the shrimp until they boast a delightful brown hue. Extract the shrimp from the flour mixture and immerse them in hot oil for a span of 3-5 minutes, ensuring they reach a succulent tenderness and the batter attains a gentle golden crisp.
Upon completion, carefully drain the fried shrimp and proceed with a repetition of the process for any remaining ones. Place the shrimp onto a paper towel-lined baking sheet or platter to absorb any excess oil. If needed, carry out the process once more for the remaining shrimp.
To savor the optimal flavor and texture, serve promptly. Pair the Southern Fried Shrimp with your preferred condiments for a culinary experience that’s nothing short of delightful.