Fried Butter Shrimp is a crispy and irresistible treat that will leave you craving more. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a golden, crunchy batter and a rich buttery flavor that makes every bite a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging for yourself, Fried Butter Shrimp is a fantastic addition to any meal.
If you’ve never tasted Fried Butter Shrimp, you’re in for an astonishing experience. The satisfying crunch of the batter combined with the juicy, tender shrimp creates a delightful contrast that your taste buds will adore. It’s a dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers and one that can please any crowd. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it has become a favorite among many.
In this article, you will find out why this recipe is so beloved, the easy preparation and cooking times, a detailed ingredients list, step-by-step instructions, and tips on how to serve this delightful dish. Let’s dive into the world of Fried Butter Shrimp and discover what makes it such an exceptional treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fried Butter Shrimp is not just another seafood dish; it’s a flavor-packed adventure! Here are some reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this amazing recipe:
1. Irresistible Crunch: The crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch that complements the tender shrimp.
2. Rich Flavor: The buttery flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a delightful experience.
3. Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
4. Versatile: Enjoy Fried Butter Shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a seafood platter.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining guests or cooking for family, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
6. Leftover Potential: If you have any leftovers, they can easily be reheated and still taste delicious!
These elements combine to make Fried Butter Shrimp a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, crispy seafood. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, you’ll find success with this incredible recipe.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating Fried Butter Shrimp can be done in a snap. Here’s an overview of the preparation and cooking times you should expect:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
– Total Time: 25-30 minutes
This quick timeframe allows you to serve an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for those busy weekdays or weekend dinner parties!
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
– ½ cup unsalted butter (for frying)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Fried Butter Shrimp is straightforward. Follow these steps for delicious results:
1. Prepare Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk. Place the breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
3. Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, then dip into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat with the breadcrumbs.
4. Heat Butter: In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s hot and foamy.
5. Fry Shrimp: Working in batches, carefully add the coated shrimp to the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess butter.
7. Repeat: Continue frying the remaining shrimp, adding more butter to the pan as necessary.
8. Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for extra flavor.
By following these steps, you’ll have a plateful of Fried Butter Shrimp that’s both beautiful and delicious.
How to Serve
Serving Fried Butter Shrimp can elevate your dining experience. Consider these tips for the best presentation:
1. Plating: Arrange the shrimp on a large platter for communal sharing or serve in individual bowls for a more formal setting.
2. Dipping Sauces: Offer various dipping sauces such as cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.
3. Sides: Pair the fried shrimp with coleslaw, a green salad, or crispy fries for a rounded meal.
4. Garnish: Use chopped parsley and lemon wedges for garnish, which adds a pop of color and freshness.
5. Temperature: Ensure the shrimp is served hot for the best taste and texture.
By taking these simple steps, you can impress your guests with a restaurant-quality presentation and flavor. Your Fried Butter Shrimp will not only be a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
In conclusion, Fried Butter Shrimp is a dish that will undoubtedly impress anyone who tries it. With its irresistible crunch and rich buttery flavor, you will want to make it again and again. Enjoy this phenomenal treat today!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp. If using frozen, thaw them properly and pat them dry before cooking.
– Temperature Matters: Ensure the butter is hot before adding the shrimp. This will help achieve that golden crunchy texture.
– Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature, resulting in soggy coating.
– Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra delightful crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
– Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to add a personal twist to the flavor profile.
Recipe Variation
You can easily customize Fried Butter Shrimp to keep things exciting. Here are some variations you might want to try:
1. Spicy Fried Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the buttermilk for a spicy kick.
2. Herb-Infused Shrimp: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro into the breadcrumb coating for added flavor.
3. Coconut Crust: Substitute half of the breadcrumbs with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
4. Lemon Pepper Shrimp: Add lemon zest to the flour mixture for a zesty finish.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Fried Butter Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They should last up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven until hot and crispy.
Special Equipment
Although it’s simple to prepare Fried Butter Shrimp, a few tools can enhance your cooking experience:
– Large Frying Pan: A deep skillet or frying pan is ideal for frying. Choose one that allows for even heat distribution.
– Slotted Spoon: This will help you easily remove the shrimp from the hot butter without retaining excess grease.
– Baking Sheet: Use it to set fried shrimp on paper towels for draining and crisping up.
– Thermometer (optional): An instant-read thermometer can help monitor the oil temperature for perfect frying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and dry them well prior to breading.
What can I serve with Fried Butter Shrimp?
They pair beautifully with a variety of sides, like coleslaw, rice, or even crispy tacos.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 425°F, brushing with butter for a healthier option.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Look for a golden-brown color on both sides. The shrimp should be opaque and no longer translucent inside.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love fried shrimp, especially with an array of fun dipping sauces.
Conclusion
Fried Butter Shrimp is a fantastic dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors and crispy textures. It’s perfect for seafood aficionados and casual diners alike. With its mouthwatering crunch and satisfying taste, this dish will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether for a family meal or entertaining guests, Fried Butter Shrimp will delight everyone at your table. Enjoy making this crispy treat!
Fried Butter Shrimp: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
– ½ cup unsalted butter (for frying)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Creating Fried Butter Shrimp is straightforward. Follow these steps for delicious results:
1. Prepare Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk. Place the breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
3. Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, then dip into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat with the breadcrumbs.
4. Heat Butter: In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s hot and foamy.
5. Fry Shrimp: Working in batches, carefully add the coated shrimp to the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess butter.
7. Repeat: Continue frying the remaining shrimp, adding more butter to the pan as necessary.
8. Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for extra flavor.
By following these steps, you’ll have a plateful of Fried Butter Shrimp that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 25g