Crispy popcorn shrimp is a fun finger food that’s full of flavor! These little shrimp are coated in a crunchy batter and fried to golden perfection, making them simply irresistible.
I love serving these shrimp with a zesty dipping sauce; it adds a nice kick! Plus, they’re great for parties or just a cozy night in—who doesn’t love a good shrimp snack? 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Small shrimp are perfect for popcorn shrimp. If you’re in a bind, you can also use larger shrimp, just cut them down to size. For a more budget-friendly option, consider using frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice, crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they won’t be quite as crunchy. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a unique twist!
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a nice kick, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer milder flavors. Alternatively, you can replace it with a dash of hot sauce in the egg wash for a different kind of heat.
Eggs: If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
How Do I Fry the Perfect Popcorn Shrimp?
Frying shrimp can seem tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll master it! First, ensure your oil is heated properly; this makes a huge difference in crispiness. Use a thermometer to get your oil to 350°F (175°C).
- The shrimp should be golden brown after 2-3 minutes. Be mindful not to overload the pan; this can lower the oil temperature and make your shrimp soggy.
- After frying, place shrimp on paper towels to catch excess oil—this helps keep them crispy.
- Always serve the shrimp hot for the best texture. Pair it with lemon wedges to brighten up the flavors!
Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb small shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Cocktail sauce or marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 15 minutes to fry the shrimp. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to have these crispy delights ready to serve. Quick, fun, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water. After rinsing, use some paper towels to pat them dry. This step is important for ensuring the coating sticks well!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. This blend will give your shrimp a tasty kick!
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well mixed. This will help the breading stick to the shrimp.
4. Set Up for Breading:
Place the panko breadcrumbs in another shallow dish. You’re all set to coat those little shrimp!
5. Coat the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and first dip it into the seasoned flour. Shake off any extra flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently for a nice, even coating.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.
7. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully add a few shrimp to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry them for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. If needed, flip the shrimp halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
8. Drain the Shrimp:
Once the shrimp are cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help soak up excess oil and keep them crispy.
9. Repeat the Process:
Continue frying the remaining shrimp until all are beautifully golden and ready to enjoy!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your crispy popcorn shrimp with some fresh chopped parsley, and serve them hot with lemon wedges and dipping sauce like cocktail sauce or marinara. Dig in and savor every crunchy bite!
Enjoy your crispy popcorn shrimp hot and crunchy! 🍤
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw them first. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker results. Pat them dry before coating to ensure crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and coat them ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator and fry them just before serving for that perfect crunch!
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some crunch.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you can’t find panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but they won’t be as crispy. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers can provide a nice crunchy texture too!