Louisiana Fried Shrimp
Crispy Louisiana fried shrimp with a flavorful marinade, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a spicy, savory dish with a crunchy coating. Ideal for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove heads and shells from shrimp, leaving the fantail intact.
- Split shrimp down the back and remove the vein.
- Make a mixture of eggs, Carnation milk, baking powder, and vinegar.
- Marinate the shrimp in this mixture for at least 1 hour.
- Remove the shrimp from the marinade and season lightly with Creole seasoning.
- Dip the shrimp in flour to coat evenly.
- Fry the shrimp in 380°F oil for not over 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour coating. If you don’t have Carnation milk, regular milk or buttermilk can be used as a substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture. For a lighter option, try using a batter instead of flour. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried shrimp with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a side of tartar sauce or cocktail sauce for dipping. They pair nicely with fries or a light salad, such as the Redskin Salmon Salad, for a complete meal. For a more casual approach, serve them in a seafood po' boy sandwich with lettuce and tomatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louisiana Fried Shrimp contains roughly 187 calories, with 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 853mg per serving (37% 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, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure the coating adheres well. This will help achieve that desired crispy texture when frying.
What type of oil is best for frying shrimp?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil is recommended for frying shrimp due to their high smoke points. This allows for even cooking and helps to achieve a golden, crispy exterior without imparting strong flavors that could overwhelm the shrimp.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients, like the baking powder, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).