Cajun Fried Shrimp: Crispy, Spicy, and Irresistible
If you’re craving bold flavors, crispy texture, and a kick of Cajun spice, this Cajun Fried Shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. The perfect balance of crunch and juiciness, these shrimp are seasoned to perfection and fried until golden brown. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or tucked into a po’ boy sandwich, this dish is a true Southern favorite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Crispy and Crunchy: The perfect golden-brown crust that stays crisp.
✔️ Packed with Cajun Flavor: A delicious blend of spices enhances every bite.
✔️ Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔️ Versatile: Serve with dipping sauces, in tacos, or over a salad.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Shrimp:
12 large raw shrimp (prawns), peeled but tails on – The star of the dish, tender and juicy with a sweet, delicate flavor.
½ cup vegetable oil – Essential for frying, ensuring even crispiness.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the breading, giving the shrimp a light and crispy texture.
½ teaspoon fresh lemon zest – Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness to balance the heat.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds depth and warmth.
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning – The key to bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the color and adds a subtle smokiness.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts savory, garlicky goodness.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adjust to your spice preference for an extra kick.
½ cup buttermilk – Helps the flour coating stick while adding a slight tang.
1 egg – Binds the breading to the shrimp for a perfect crust.
For Serving:
Lemon wedges – A squeeze of lemon enhances the flavors.
Remoulade sauce or tartar sauce – The perfect creamy, tangy complement.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Shrimp
1. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Dredge in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to adhere.
3. Set the coated shrimp on a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes—this helps the coating stick.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully place shrimp in the hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
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Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Fried Shrimp
✔️ Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before frying.
✔️ Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy coating, dip shrimp in the buttermilk mixture and flour twice.
✔️ Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 350°F—too hot, and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too low, and the shrimp get greasy.
✔️ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches for even cooking and the crispiest results.
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Serving Suggestions
⭐ Classic Po’ Boy Sandwich: Serve on a toasted baguette with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and remoulade sauce.
⭐ Over Rice or Grits: A Southern favorite, perfect for soaking up flavors.
⭐ With Fries or Coleslaw: A classic seafood platter combination.
⭐ Taco Night: Serve in warm tortillas with slaw and a drizzle of Cajun mayo.
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Final Thoughts
This Cajun Fried Shrimp recipe is simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. The crispy coating, juicy shrimp, and bold Cajun spices make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a game-day
snack, or a weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Try this recipe today, and let us know how it turned out!