Deep Fried Shrimp

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Crispy deep-fried shrimp with a light batter, perfect as an appetizer or main dish for seafood lovers seeking quick, flavorful, and crunchy bites.

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Ingredients

  • 24 medium shrimp, shelled
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup milk

Instructions

  1. Heat oil over steady high heat in a deep skillet.
  2. Mix flour, baking powder, egg, and milk to form a batter.
  3. Beat well until the mixture runs smoothly from a spoon.
  4. Dip individual shrimp into the batter, ensuring they are coated evenly.
  5. Drop the coated shrimp into hot oil carefully.
  6. Cook until outside is golden brown and shrimp are cooked through.
  7. Remove from oil and drain excess oil before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter coating, consider using panko breadcrumbs in place of some flour. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the batter. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture; a test shrimp should sizzle upon contact. For a twist, try pairing with a spicy dipping sauce for added zest.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy shrimp with a side of coleslaw and a zesty cocktail sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with Ann'S Crab Cheese Spread for a delightful appetizer spread. Consider offering a selection of sauces such as tartar or a spicy remoulade to cater to different tastes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover deep-fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Deep Fried Shrimp contains roughly 2355 calories, with 46g protein, 470g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (114% of the Daily Value), protein (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2093mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).

2355 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 45.6g 91% DV
Total Fat 35.5g 46% DV
Carbs 470.3g 100% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 5.9g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2092.9mg 91% DV
Potassium 2830.8mg 60% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 354.7mcg 39% DV
Vitamin C 3.9mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 1480.9mg 100% DV
Iron 13.7mg 76% DV
Diet fit High-protein Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating with the batter. This will help the batter adhere better and keep the shrimp crispy while frying.

What type of oil is best for frying shrimp?

For frying shrimp, use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning, ensuring your shrimp cook evenly and develop a golden, crispy exterior.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are done when they turn a pinkish color and have an internal temperature of 120°F. The coating should be golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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