why make this recipe
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp is a fun and tasty dish that everyone loves. It’s perfect for parties, appetizers, or a quick snack. The crispy coating gives a satisfying crunch, while the tender shrimp inside adds a delightful flavor. Making this dish at home allows you to control the ingredients and create a version that suits your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seafood in a new and exciting way!
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. Crispy Popcorn Shrimp is best served hot and fresh, plain or with a dipping sauce like cocktail sauce or tartar sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, reheating in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.
how to serve Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp is best served hot. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with various dipping sauces such as cocktail sauce or tartar sauce. You can also place them on a platter with some lemon wedges for added flavor and presentation. They make a great snack at casual gatherings or as part of a meal.
how to store Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
To store leftover Crispy Popcorn Shrimp, place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best texture, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) so they become crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
tips to make Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
- Make sure to dry the shrimp well before coating them; this helps the batter stick better.
- Adjust the seasonings in the batter to suit your taste. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick.
- Fry the shrimp in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
variation
You can make variations of Crispy Popcorn Shrimp by adding spices or ingredients to the batter. Consider adding paprika for a smoky flavor, or mix in grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist. Additionally, you can use different types of seafood, such as scallops or small fish fillets, to create similar crispy bites.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
What type of oil is best for frying?
You can use oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for frying.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
While the traditional recipe calls for frying, you can bake the shrimp for a healthier option. Just coat them with the batter and spread them on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A fun and tasty dish, Crispy Popcorn Shrimp features a delightful crunch and tender shrimp, perfect for parties or as a quick snack.
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.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces like cocktail or tartar sauce.
Notes
For the best texture, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: popcorn shrimp, fried shrimp, seafood appetizer, easy snack