Crispy Popcorn Shrimp Recipe
This Crispy Popcorn Shrimp recipe features tender medium shrimp marinated in buttermilk, then coated with a flavorful blend of flour, cornmeal, and spices before being deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, it’s an irresistible appetizer or snack that delivers a delightful crunch and zesty taste.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Mix to ensure all shrimp are coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and add flavor.
- Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the flour and cornmeal.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot to about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature to achieve a crispy crust without burning.
- Coat the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp thoroughly in the breading mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
- Fry the Shrimp: Carefully place the breaded shrimp in batches into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes per side or until shrimp are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the crispy popcorn shrimp immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce for dipping. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For best results, maintain the oil temperature; too low oil will make shrimp greasy, too high will burn the coating.
- You can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt thinned with a bit of milk if preferred.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to desired spice level.
- Use fresh shrimp for optimal flavor and texture.
- If you want to make this gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Keywords: popcorn shrimp, crispy shrimp, fried shrimp, appetizer, seafood recipe, snack
Find it online: https://mjrecipe.com/crispy-popcorn-shrimp-recipe/