Here’s a classic Southern Fried Shrimp recipe — crispy, golden, and packed with flavor 🍤✨
🍤 Southern Fried Shrimp
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal (for authentic Southern crunch)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼–½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Shrimp
- Place shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk.
- Let soak for 10–15 minutes (adds tenderness and flavor).
2️⃣ Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix:
- Flour
- Cornmeal
- Salt
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Cayenne (if using)
3️⃣ Heat the Oil
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
- Oil should be about 2 inches deep.
4️⃣ Coat the Shrimp
- Remove shrimp from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge in flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
5️⃣ Fry
- Fry shrimp in batches (don’t overcrowd).
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Shrimp cook fast — don’t overcook or they’ll get rubbery!
🍋 Serve With
- Lemon wedges
- Cocktail sauce
- Tartar sauce
- Remoulade
- Coleslaw & fries for a full Southern plate
💡 Pro Tips
✔ Add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the buttermilk for extra flavor
✔ For ultra-crispy shrimp, double-dip (buttermilk → flour → back to buttermilk → flour)
✔ Serve immediately for best crunch
If you’d like, I can also give you a light, extra-crispy seafood-basket version like coastal restaurants make 😋
