Hey there, seafood lovers! If you’ve been on the hunt for a finger-lickin’ good shrimp recipe, look no further. We’re diving into the world of crispy buttermilk fried shrimp—your new favorite indulgence. These little bites of heaven are perfect for a fancy appetizer, a fun party snack, or just a delightful treat because you deserve it. Let’s get ready to fry things up!
The Story Behind the Recipe
You’re scrolling through your feed, seeing all these foodies post their latest gourmet creations. Inspired, you decide it’s time to level up your shrimp game. After a bit of trial and error (and a few too many soggy shrimp), you stumble upon the magic that is buttermilk. That’s right—plain old buttermilk turned out to be the secret to achieving that perfect, crispy coating. This recipe was born out of a desire to create the ultimate crunchy, flavorful shrimp experience.
Who Will Love Crispy Buttermilk Fried Shrimp?
This dish is a crowd-pleaser for anyone who appreciates the crunch of perfectly fried food. From Gen Z food explorers looking for the next Instagram-worthy snack to millennials who love a good comfort food remix, this recipe is for you. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in with Netflix or hosting a backyard barbecue, crispy buttermilk fried shrimp will be a hit.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Shrimp: If you’re not into shrimp, try this recipe with chicken strips or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Buttermilk: No buttermilk? No problem! Use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Seasonings: Feel free to play around with your spice cabinet. Add a pinch of cayenne for some heat or swap out onion salt for regular salt and a dash of onion powder.
Why This Recipe Works
The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the shrimp, keeping them juicy on the inside while the seasoned flour mix provides a crisp, flavorful crust. Deep-frying at the right temperature ensures they come out golden brown and perfectly crunchy every time. It’s a tried-and-true method that delivers consistent, delicious results.
What’s In Buttermilk Fried Shrimp?
- Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and de-veined)
- Plain Buttermilk
- Ground Paprika
- Onion Salt
- Garlic Powder
- Fine Sea Salt
- Black Pepper
- Large Egg
For the Breading/Seasoned Flour:
- All-purpose Flour
- Ground Paprika
- Onion Salt
- Garlic Powder
- Fine Sea Salt
- Vegetable Oil for Deep Frying (use a high smoke point oil)
Crispy Buttermilk Fried Shrimp
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp peeled and de-veined
Shrimp Batter/Seasoning
- 1/3 cup Plain Buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp Ground Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Onion Salt Trader Joe’s brand
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 Large Egg
For the Breading/Seasoned Flour:
- 3/4 cup All-purpose Flour
- 1/4 tsp Ground Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Onion Salt Trader Joe’s
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Fine Sea Salt
- 3-4 cups Vegetable Oil for Deep Frying use a high smoke point oil
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, onion salt, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and egg. Whisk together. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, onion salt, garlic powder, and sea salt.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat the Shrimp: Remove shrimp from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, coating evenly.
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot.
- Drain and Serve: Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or my Copycat Lotus Seafood Crack Sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Q: What’s the best oil for frying shrimp?
A: Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—crispy buttermilk fried shrimp that are sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner. Don’t forget to snap a pic for the ‘Gram before you dive in! Happy frying! Make sure you pair this with one of my favorite cocktails! Also, like my Facebook page here.
