Cajun Fried Shrimp Recipe
If you love crispy seafood, this Cajun Fried Shrimp Recipe is perfect for you. The shrimp are crunchy outside and juicy inside. Cajun spices give them a bold and smoky flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce optional
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a bowl. Add buttermilk, egg and hot sauce. Mix gently and let them soak for ten minutes.
Prepare the Coating
- In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and black pepper. Stir everything well. This mixture will give the shrimp a crispy texture.
Coat the Shrimp
- Take one shrimp from the buttermilk mixture. Let the extra liquid drip off. Roll the shrimp in the flour mixture. Make sure it is fully coated for extra crunch.
Heat the Oil
- Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan. Heat the oil over medium heat. The oil should reach about 350°F for perfect frying results.
Fry the Shrimp
- Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil. Fry them in small batches. Cook each shrimp for about two to three minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve
- Remove the shrimp using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place them on paper towels to remove extra oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat the shrimp dry before soaking in buttermilk.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying.
- Keep the oil temperature around 350°F for crispiness.
- Add extra Cajun seasoning if you like stronger flavor.
- Serve the shrimp immediately for the best crunch.