Easy Popcorn Shrimp
A delightful dish featuring crispy and succulent shrimp, perfect for snacks or gatherings.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 lb small raw shrimp, peeled and deveined Tender and delicate, ensuring each bite is packed with ocean-fresh flavor.
- 1 cup buttermilk Creamy and tangy, perfect for tenderizing and coating the shrimp.
- 1 tsp hot sauce Just enough to add a subtle kick.
Coating Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour The base coating for that crispy exterior.
- 0.33 cup cornstarch Providing extra crunch and a light texture.
- 0.5 cup fine cornmeal For a delightful crunch and slight nuttiness.
- 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs The secret ingredient for an irresistibly crisp finish.
- 1.5 tsp paprika For a pop of color and a hint of warmth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder To enhance the savory flavor profile.
- 1 tsp onion powder Adding depth to the delicious coating.
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper Delivering a touch of heat to tantalize your taste buds.
- 0.5 tsp baking powder Ensuring the batter is light and airy.
- 1.25 tsp kosher salt, divided To enhance all the flavors.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper Adding to the seasoning mix.
Frying
- 3 cups vegetable oil The perfect medium for achieving golden-brown perfection.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the shrimp to the mixture and let them marinate for 15-20 minutes.
Coating
- In a separate dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, 1 tsp salt, black pepper, and baking powder.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge each marinated shrimp in the coating mixture, shaking off excess.
- Fry batches of shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite spices to the coating mixture. To keep shrimp crispy, you can keep them warm in a low oven while finishing frying the rest. For a healthier option, bake coated shrimp instead of frying.