Classic Crispy Fried Shrimp

Directions

1. Heat 1/2 inch of canola oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Line a plate with paper towels and set aside.
2. In a cake pan or pie plate, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, salt, and pepper to make the egg wash.
3. In another cake pan, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne to make the batter.
4. Dip shrimp into the egg wash, then coat completely in the flour-cornmeal mixture. Place coated shrimp on a clean plate. Repeat with remaining shrimp.
5. Fry shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook about 3 minutes per batch until crispy and golden brown. Drain on the prepared paper towel-lined plate.
6. For the dipping sauce, mix mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce in a bowl. Serve alongside the shrimp.

Recipe Details

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap cayenne for smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
• Use panko breadcrumbs in place of cornmeal for extra crunch.
• Serve with cocktail sauce or tartar sauce instead of sweet chili mayo.

Serving Suggestions