Shrimp Batter

Prep: 10 min Cook: 5 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Crispy shrimp batter is a delightful coating that brings a satisfying crunch to succulent shrimp. With a blend of flour, cornstarch, and spices, this batter is perfect for deep-frying, creating a golden-brown exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender seafood inside. Ideal for seafood lovers and appetizer enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. flour
  • 1/2 tsp. cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp. soda
  • 1/2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 beaten egg
  • 1/2 to 1 c. cold water
  • paprika

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients with a mixer until smooth.
  2. Deep-fry shrimp until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For an even crispier batter, try substituting half of the flour with cornstarch. Ensure your water is very cold to create a light texture. If you want to add flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of garlic powder or cayenne pepper for heat. For those looking for vegetarian recipes, use this batter to coat vegetables before frying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the shrimp hot with a side of tangy dipping sauce like cocktail sauce or spicy mayo. These shrimp pair beautifully with a fresh salad or crispy French fries. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a creamy side dish such as Creamy Chicken And Mushrooms to complement the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you have leftover fried shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and refrigerate. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, keeping them crispy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Shrimp Batter contains roughly 391 calories, with 7g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (14% of the Daily Value).

391 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7g 14% DV
Total Fat 4.3g 6% DV
Carbs 81.4g 30% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 239.8mg 10% DV
Potassium 381.9mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 154.9mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 68.9mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Calcium 181.4mg 14% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 sparkling water instead of cold water?

Yes, using sparkling water can add extra lightness and crispiness to the batter due to the carbonation. Just make sure it's very cold when mixing it with the other ingredients.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

To test if the oil is at the right temperature, drop a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Ideally, the temperature should be around 350°F (175°C) for frying.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

While it's best to use the batter immediately for optimal crispiness, you can make it up to an hour in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and stir gently before using to incorporate any settled ingredients.

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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