why make this recipe
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp is a fantastic dish that brings the taste of the seaside right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering. This recipe is not only delicious but also super fun to make. Everyone loves that satisfying crunch, making it a hit among family and friends. Plus, you can customize the seasonings to suit your taste!
how to make Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (to taste)
- Oil for frying
Directions:
Start by patting the shrimp dry to remove excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and seasonings. Gradually add water until you achieve a thick batter consistency. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Dip each shrimp into the batter and carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in small batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels before serving.
how to serve Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp is best served hot and fresh. You can enjoy it plain or with a dipping sauce. Some great options for dips include cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a spicy aioli. Serve your shrimp on a platter, alongside fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
how to store Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
If you have any leftovers, let the shrimp cool completely before storing them. Place the leftover shrimp in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through. This will help restore some of the crispiness.
tips to make Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
- Make sure to dry the shrimp well before battering to ensure a crispy finish.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your taste. You can add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Avoid overcrowding the frying pot to ensure even cooking. Fry in small batches for the best results.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for consistent frying.
variation
You can turn this recipe into a spicy version by adding a dash of hot sauce to the batter or using a spicy seasoning blend. Another idea is to coat the shrimp with breadcrumbs after dipping them in batter for an extra crunchy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil or canola oil works well for frying because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Can I bake the popcorn shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange the battered shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp is a flavorful dish that brings the taste of the seaside right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for snacking or as an appetizer for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (to taste)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and seasonings.
- Gradually add water until you achieve a thick batter consistency.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each shrimp into the batter and carefully place them in the hot oil.
- Fry in small batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Notes
Serve hot with dipping sauces like cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a spicy aioli. Use fresh lemon wedges for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: popcorn shrimp, seafood appetizer, fried shrimp, crispy shrimp, quick snack