Southern Fried Shrimp with preparation steps:
Ingredients:
1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on (optional)
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (120g) cornmeal (yellow or white)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or milk if unavailable)
Vegetable oil for frying (e.g., canola or peanut oil)
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
Wash the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
If desired, keep the tails on for easier handling and presentation. - Set Up Your Breading Station:
In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. - Coat the Shrimp:
Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Transfer the shrimp to the flour mixture and coat evenly, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks well.
Place the coated shrimp on a tray and repeat with the rest. - Heat the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to a depth of about 2 inches.