Louise'S Fried Shrimp
Crispy, golden fried shrimp with a crunchy cornflake coating, perfect as an appetizer or main dish for seafood lovers seeking a flavorful, satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the shrimp and dry them on paper towels, top and bottom.
- Devein the shrimp if desired.
- Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Add the slightly beaten egg, salad oil, and gradually pour in ice water, stirring until the batter has the consistency of pancake batter or thinner.
- Crush the cornflakes with your hands on a separate plate; do not use pre-made crumbs as they are too fine.
- Dip each shrimp into the batter, then roll in the crushed cornflakes to coat thoroughly.
- If necessary, crush more flakes to ensure a good coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer and cook 8 to 12 shrimp at a time for about 1 minute or until golden brown.
- Drain the fried shrimp on paper towels and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter batter, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cornstarch. Ensure the shrimp are well-dried for crispier results. If you prefer a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture. To maintain the crunchiness of the cornflake coating, serve immediately after frying or keep them warm in a low oven until all are cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried shrimp hot with a side of tartar sauce or cocktail sauce for dipping. They pair excellently with a fresh green salad or coleslaw. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside some Lemon-Garlic Boiled Shrimp or alongside a platter of Oysterette Cracker Snacks for a delightful seafood spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louise'S Fried Shrimp contains roughly 1029 calories, with 19g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1206mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
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; just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before preparing. This will help achieve the best texture and prevent excess moisture from affecting the batter.
What type of oil is best for frying?
For frying, it's best to use oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils will allow for a crispy finish without imparting strong flavors to the shrimp.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While the batter can be prepared ahead, it's best to use it fresh for the crispiest results. If you must prepare it in advance, store it in the refrigerator for no more than a few hours, and give it a good stir before using.
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).