Beer Batter Fried Shrimp is a fun and crispy treat! Plump shrimp are coated in a light, bubbly beer batter and fried until golden brown. Perfect for a snack or a main dish!
I love how the batter puffs up, making each bite crunchy and tasty. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a winner! It’s shrimp-tastic! 🦐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe as they hold up well when fried. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen ones are a great alternative. Just remember to thaw them properly before cooking!
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just ensure it has a similar texture for the batter to adhere well.
Beer: Using lager or pale ale gives the batter a nice flavor. If you want a non-alcoholic option, use sparkling water or soda. It still provides that bubbly texture in the coating.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or peanut oil works well for frying. Just avoid olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and can impart a strong flavor.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Batter for Frying?
The key to a great beer batter is in the mixing process and the temperature. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the dry ingredients first for even distribution. Slowly add the beer and stir until just combined. Don’t worry about lumps; they help with the texture!
- Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F/175°C). This is crucial—too cool, and the batter will soak up oil; too hot, and it will burn.
- Dredging the shrimp in flour before dipping them in the batter helps it stick better and creates a crispy finish.
These tips will help make your fried shrimp perfectly crisp and delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
Beer Batter Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dredging
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold beer (lager or pale ale works well)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for frying. You will have crispy, delicious Beer Batter Fried Shrimp within about 30-35 minutes—perfect for a quick meal or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and gently patting them dry with a paper towel. Keeping the tails on adds a nice touch and makes them easier to handle while eating.
2. Make the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Slowly add the cold beer, stirring gently until the mix is smooth, resembling a thick pancake batter. Don’t worry if it’s a little lumpy; it will still turn out great.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for best results; this ensures your shrimp will be crispy and not greasy.
4. Dredge the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and lightly coat it with extra flour. This helps the batter stick better. Shake off any excess flour before you dip them into the batter.
5. Dip the Shrimp:
Now, dip each floured shrimp into the beer batter until fully coated. It’s okay if there’s extra batter, just make sure they’re well covered!
6. Fry the Shrimp:
Cautiously place the battered shrimp into the hot oil, working in small batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and Cool:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps them stay crispy.
8. Make the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until smooth.
9. Serve:
To serve, pile the crispy fried shrimp on a plate, sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color, and don’t forget the dipping sauce on the side!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Beer Batter Fried Shrimp! Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a solo treat! 🎉
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the frozen shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry before using. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Beer?
If you prefer not to use beer, sparkling water or club soda works well as a non-alcoholic substitution. The carbonation will help create a light, crispy batter!
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Can I Prepare the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before using, as it may thicken slightly while sitting. However, for the best results, make it fresh!