Popcorn shrimp are a delicious and fun dish that’s perfect for snacking or serving at parties. These small, crispy shrimp are easy to make and full of flavor. With a crunchy coating and juicy interior, they are sure to be a hit with everyone!
Why Make This Recipe
Making popcorn shrimp at home allows you to enjoy this tasty treat whenever you want. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to fit your taste. It’s also a quick recipe, so you can whip it up without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, homemade popcorn shrimp are always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound small or medium shrimp, deveined and peeled
- Vegetable oil for frying (don’t use olive oil; for frying, you need an oil with a higher smoke point)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 whole egg
- ¼ cup milk
Directions:
- Pour oil into a deep saucepan or pot, heating it to 350°F. For the best results, use an instant-read thermometer. The oil should come up about 3 to 4 inches from the bottom of the pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the egg and milk together and set aside.
- Take half of the prepared flour mixture and pour it into a resealable bag.
- Add the shrimp to the bag and shake until they are well coated with the flour mixture.
- Remove the shrimp from the bag and dredge them in the egg mixture. Then coat the shrimp with the remaining flour mixture in the bowl.
- Fry about 5 to 6 shrimp at a time in the heated oil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the oil and set them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Continue the process with the rest of the shrimp.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Serve Popcorn Shrimp
Popcorn shrimp are best served hot and crispy. You can place them in a bowl and serve with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, cocktail sauce, or a tangy ranch dip. They also make a great addition to salads or tacos!
How to Store Popcorn Shrimp
If you have leftovers, let the popcorn shrimp cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Tips to Make Popcorn Shrimp
- For extra crunch, double-dip the shrimp: coat in flour, then egg, and then flour again before frying.
- Experiment with different seasonings for unique flavors.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp, or they may become soggy instead of crispy.
Variation
You can try adding some spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to the flour mixture for added flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, consider baking the shrimp instead of frying them.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before using.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done frying?
A: The shrimp are done when they are golden brown and float to the surface of the oil. It usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to serve popcorn shrimp fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and coating ahead of time. Just fry them right before serving for the best texture.
Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound small or medium shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt to taste salt
- Pepper to taste pepper
- 1 whole egg
- ¼ cup milk
For Frying
- Vegetable oil as needed vegetable oil for frying Do not use olive oil; need an oil with a higher smoke point.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pour oil into a deep saucepan or pot, heating it to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the egg and milk together and set aside.
- Take half of the prepared flour mixture and pour it into a resealable bag.
- Add the shrimp to the bag and shake until they are well coated with the flour mixture.
- Remove the shrimp from the bag and dredge them in the egg mixture. Then coat the shrimp with the remaining flour mixture in the bowl.
Cooking
- Fry about 5 to 6 shrimp at a time in the heated oil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the oil and set them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Continue the process with the rest of the shrimp.
Serving
- Garnish with parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
