Introduction

Crispy, golden fried shrimp make a perfect appetizer or main dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. This recipe features a tender shrimp soaked in a tangy sour cream marinade and coated with a seasoned panko breadcrumb crust for extra crunch. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful meal.

A close-up view of many golden-brown fried shrimp with a crispy texture, sprinkled with small green herb pieces, filling most of a white plate. In the lower part, a small bright yellow lemon wedge is partly visible. To the left, there is a white bowl filled with thick red dipping sauce, likely cocktail sauce, sitting on a white marbled surface. The shrimp have curved shapes and a crunchy coating that looks delicious and fresh. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Instructions

Step 1: Set cooling racks over a baking sheet to drain excess oil from the shrimp after frying. This helps keep them crispy on all sides.

Step 2: If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry. Remove shells and veins if desired; tails can be left on for presentation.

Step 3: In a wide container, mix sour cream and milk until it resembles buttermilk (you can also use 1 cup buttermilk). Add shrimp and spoon some marinade over them. Let soak at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 4: In another wide container, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Mix well.

Step 5: Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing excess to drip off so the coating stays light and crisp. Coat shrimp thoroughly in the breading mixture, making sure no wet spots remain. Set aside.

Step 6: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350-375°F. To test, drop a small piece of breading in the oil; it should rise and sizzle immediately.

Step 7: Fry shrimp in batches for 3-4 minutes each, until golden brown. Maintain oil temperature to ensure even cooking and prevent sogginess.

Step 8: Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon or spider strainer and place on cooling racks to drain. Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.

Step 9: Serve immediately with vegetable fried rice and your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry.

Adjust the cayenne seasoning to control the spiciness according to your preference.

Try swapping sour cream and milk with plain buttermilk for a tangier marinade.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Serve with cocktail sauce, spicy mayo, or sweet chili sauce for dipping variety.

FAQs

Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

You can marinate and bread the shrimp a few hours ahead, but it’s best to fry them fresh just before serving to retain crispiness.

What oil is best for frying shrimp?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils allow for proper frying temperature without imparting strong flavors.