Popcorn Shrimp
Popcorn Shrimp - Golden, crunchy little bites of shrimp heaven — marinated in buttermilk, coated in a spiced flour-cornmeal mix, and fried to irresistible perfection. Snack attack? Handled.
Servings: 4
Calories: 231kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp medium size, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- salt and pepper to taste
- vegetable oil for frying
- lemon wedges for serving
- tartar sauce for serving
Instructions
- If the shrimp are not already, peel and devein them. Make sure they are dry by patting them down with paper towels.
- Place the shrimp in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Fill a deep frying pan or pot with about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C).
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Remove a few shrimp at a time from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Toss them in the flour mixture until they are well coated.
- Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook the shrimp in batches if necessary. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the popcorn shrimp hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce for dipping.
Video
Notes
- Dry the shrimp well before marinating to help the coating stick.
- Buttermilk substitute: Stir 1 tablespoon of vinegar into 1 cup of milk and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and maintain oil temperature.
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne or toss in a pinch of Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for extra kick.
- Baking option: Bake coated shrimp at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air fryer option: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 231kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 65mg | Potassium: 199mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 397IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 2mg
