Get ready to indulge in the ultimate seafood snack with our Popcorn Shrimp recipe! These bite-sized morsels are perfectly seasoned, coated in a crispy crust, and fried to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a fun appetizer, or just craving something deliciously crunchy, this Popcorn Shrimp will hit the spot. Easy to make and even easier to eat, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s dive into this tasty treat!
Ingredients
- 1 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce or cocktail sauce, for dipping
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the coating stick and give the shrimp a tender texture.
- Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Coat the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
- Fry the Shrimp: Working in batches, carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Enjoy: Serve the popcorn shrimp hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Prepare
The key to achieving perfectly crispy Popcorn Shrimp lies in the coating. The combination of flour and cornmeal gives the shrimp a delightful crunch, while the seasoning adds just the right amount of flavor. Be sure to keep an eye on the frying temperature to avoid burning, and don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will drop the oil temperature and result in less crispy shrimp.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a snack or appetizer.
FAQs
- Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying? Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re crispy.
- What can I serve with Popcorn Shrimp? They pair well with French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before coating.
- How do I make the shrimp extra crispy? Double-dip the shrimp in the buttermilk and flour mixture for an extra-crispy coating.