Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, batter-fried shrimp is a classic dish that never fails to satisfy. The crispy coating and tender shrimp inside make for a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a celebratory gathering. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece with this easy-to-follow recipe for Batter Fried Shrimp.
**Batter Fried Shrimp**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cold water
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lemon wedges, for serving
– Cocktail sauce, for dipping
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
2. Slowly pour in the cold water while whisking continuously until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the shrimp but not too thick that it becomes clumpy.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the shrimp completely for frying.
4. While the oil is heating, pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the batter sticks well to the shrimp.
5. Once the oil reaches 350°F (180°C), it’s time to coat the shrimp. Working in batches, dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess batter to drip off before carefully placing it into the hot oil.
6. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking and a crunchy exterior.
7. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the battering and frying process with the remaining shrimp.
8. Serve the batter-fried shrimp hot with lemon wedges on the side for a touch of freshness. Pair them with cocktail sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
9. Enjoy your homemade batter-fried shrimp as a delightful appetizer or main dish that will surely impress your family and friends. This dish is best served immediately while the shrimp are still hot and crispy.
Prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness of these batter-fried shrimp – a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Dive into a plate of these crispy delights and savor every bite!
