Crispy Popcorn Shrimp is a tasty bite-sized treat that’s perfect for snacking. These little shrimp are coated in a crunchy batter that gives them a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Who doesn’t love a good munch? I always make extra because they disappear fast! Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce, and you’re set for a fun snack time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best for popcorn shrimp. If you want to save time, frozen shrimp are a great option; just ensure they’re thawed properly. For a different protein, try using chicken pieces instead!
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option or gluten-free flour if needed. The flour helps the breading stick, creating that perfect crispiness.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give shrimps an extra crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but they won’t be quite as crispy. You might also try crushed cornflakes for a fun twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Adding Parmesan to the breadcrumbs gives a lovely, cheesy flavor. If you’re not a fan of cheese, feel free to leave it out or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk is key for tender shrimp. If you don’t have any on hand, you can make your own by mixing milk with a little vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes!
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Stay Crunchy?
The secret to perfect crunchy popcorn shrimp lies in the frying technique. Here are some steps to keep in mind:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the shrimp. You can test this with a piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 60 seconds.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry in small batches to maintain the temperature of the oil.
- Let the cooked shrimp rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This keeps them crispy, rather than soggy.
With these tips, your crispy popcorn shrimp will turn out golden and crunchy, making them perfect for any snack or appetizer platter!
How to Make Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
For Frying and Serving:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Cocktail sauce or spicy ketchup, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and around 10 minutes for frying, making a total time of about 30 minutes. Quick and easy, you’ll have a tasty appetizer in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. This will be your seasoned flour mixture to add flavor to the shrimp.
2. Mixing Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well mixed. This creamy mixture will help the breading stick to the shrimp.
3. Prepare the Panko Coating:
In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese if you want that cheesy goodness. This will give your shrimp an extra crunchy texture and delicious flavor.
4. Dry the Shrimp:
Pat each shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better!
5. Dredging the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Lastly, roll the shrimp in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick well.
6. Heating the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 60 seconds.
7. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in small batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil.
8. Draining Excess Oil:
Place the fried shrimp on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This keeps them crispy and not greasy!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of cocktail sauce or spicy ketchup for dipping.
Enjoy your crunchy, golden popcorn shrimp while they’re hot for the best taste and texture!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the frozen shrimp are completely thawed before you start. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for a quicker option. Pat dry to remove moisture before breading.
How Do I Keep the Shrimp Crispy?
To maintain that delightful crunch, ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and always place cooked shrimp on paper towels to absorb excess oil, preventing sogginess.
Can I Make the Breading Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixtures in advance and store them in airtight containers. Just keep them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use them. The shrimp should be breaded right before frying for the best texture.
What Should I Serve with Popcorn Shrimp?
These shrimp are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw. Also, a dipping sauce like cocktail sauce, spicy ketchup, or garlic aioli adds extra flavor and zest!
