Southern Fried Crispy Shrimp (Print Version)

Crispy shrimp, marinated in buttermilk and spices, fried golden for an authentic Southern treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Marinade

01 - 2 large eggs
02 - 2 tablespoons buttermilk
03 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon Creole seasoning
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Shrimp

09 - 2 pounds extra-large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tail-on

→ Dredge

10 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
12 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
14 - 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
15 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
17 - Kosher salt, to taste

→ Frying

18 - Peanut oil or high-heat oil, for frying

# Steps:

01 - Preheat peanut oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F. Set a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet for draining.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
03 - Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Set aside while preparing the dredge.
04 - Combine flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt in a separate bowl. Mix thoroughly.
05 - Remove shrimp from marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
06 - Working in batches, carefully place coated shrimp into hot oil. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the oil.
07 - Transfer fried shrimp to the prepared wire rack. While hot, sprinkle lightly with salt.
08 - Serve shrimp immediately with preferred dipping sauce, such as cocktail sauce or remoulade.

# Notes:

01 - For maximum crispiness, fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature and even browning.