Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate Southern delight: Homemade Southern Fried Shrimp with a zesty cocktail sauce! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of the South right to your kitchen. With perfectly crispy shrimp and a tangy, homemade dipping sauce, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these mouthwatering shrimp are just a few steps away. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish at home!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp horseradish
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by ensuring they are completely peeled and deveined. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier coating.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper. Submerge the shrimp in this buttermilk mixture and let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- In a separate shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, remaining cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a well-seasoned breading mixture.
- Heat vegetable or peanut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for optimal frying.
- Remove shrimp from buttermilk marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp completely in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess coating.
- Carefully place coated shrimp into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning once midway.
- For the cocktail sauce, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more horseradish for extra kick if desired.
- Remove fried shrimp using a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt immediately after frying.
- Serve hot Southern fried shrimp immediately with the homemade cocktail sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the shrimp to soak in the buttermilk mixture for 10-15 minutes not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the shrimp, resulting in a juicier bite.
- Perfect Your Breading: Make sure to thoroughly coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture. This creates a deliciously crispy outer layer that enhances the overall flavor.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C). This ensures the shrimp cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color without absorbing too much oil.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to soggy shrimp instead of crispy perfection.
- Adjust the Cocktail Sauce: Personalize your cocktail sauce by adjusting the amount of horseradish to suit your taste. For a bolder flavor, add more horseradish or a splash of hot sauce.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the fried shrimp hot and fresh from the fryer alongside your homemade cocktail sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 220mg
