Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for Cajun Fried Shrimp! These shrimp are crispy, spicy, and absolutely delicious, perfect for serving as an appetizer or a main dish.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk if preferred)
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
For the Cajun Seasoned Flour:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to desired spice level)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying, enough to fill the pan about 2-3 inches deep)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, pour the buttermilk and add hot sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add the shrimp to the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are fully submerged. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes. If you have more time, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Cajun Flour Mixture:
- In a separate bowl or shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
- Once the shrimp have marinated, remove them from the buttermilk mixture and allow any excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each shrimp in the Cajun flour mixture, coating them evenly. For an extra crispy coating, you can double dip by dipping the shrimp back in the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture again.
4. Fry the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test the oil, drop in a small pinch of flour; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Working in batches, carefully lower the coated shrimp into the hot oil. Fry them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Serve the Cajun fried shrimp immediately with your favorite dipping sauce (such as ranch, cocktail sauce, or garlic butter). Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on how spicy you like your shrimp. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the shrimp with a side of coleslaw, fries, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- Air Fryer Option: For a lighter version, you can air fry the shrimp at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
These Cajun Fried Shrimp are bursting with bold flavors and have a satisfying crunch, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy!
