Popcorn Shrimp Recipe

Imagine tender, juicy shrimp coated in a crispy, golden crust, bursting with savory spices. These little morsels are fried to perfection, creating a delightful contrast of textures that’s simply irresistible. Served hot with lemon wedges and tangy tartar sauce, they’re the perfect party snack or a fun weeknight treat. This recipe is so easy, you’ll be making them all the time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients, shall we? This list is short, sweet, and packed with flavor!

• Shrimp (Medium Size, Peeled and Deveined): The star of the show! Make sure they’re nice and dry for the best coating.
• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and tenderizes the shrimp. Don’t skip this step!
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the crispy coating.
• Cornmeal: Adds extra crunch and a slightly nutty flavor.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky, sweet flavor and a vibrant color.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, pungent punch.
• Onion Powder: Adds a sweet, savory depth.
• Cayenne Pepper: Adds a touch of heat. Adjust to your spice preference!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying to golden perfection.
• Lemon Wedges: Adds a bright, citrusy zing.
• Tartar Sauce: The classic dipping companion.

Variations

Want to spice things up? Here are a few fun twists:

• Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk.
• Coconut Craze: Use shredded coconut in the coating for a tropical twist.
• Herb Heaven: Add dried oregano, thyme, or parsley to the flour mixture.
• Baked Delight: Bake the shrimp instead of frying for a healthier option.

How to Make Popcorn Shrimp

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

• If needed, peel and devein the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels.
• Place the shrimp in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

• Fill a deep frying pan or pot with about 2 inches of vegetable oil.
• Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

• In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
• Remove a few shrimp at a time from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
• Toss them in the flour mixture until well coated.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Brown

• Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil, in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
• Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the popcorn shrimp hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce for dipping.

How to Serve

Appetizer Ace:

Serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties or gatherings.

Snack Attack:

Enjoy as a quick and satisfying snack anytime.

Main Course Magic:

Serve with french fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a casual meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover popcorn shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven for best results.

Freezing

Freeze cooked and cooled popcorn shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat in an air fryer or oven.

Reheating

Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, until crispy and heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

Can I use a different type of flour?

You can use gluten-free flour or a blend of flours, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp are done when they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion

There you have it! Popcorn Shrimp that’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices and make it your own. Now, go forth and make some amazing popcorn shrimp! You’ll be hooked!

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