Name: Buttermilk Fried Shrimp
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Vegetable oil for frying; 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp (about 36), peeled, deveined; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cornmeal; Rémoulade Sauce (optional), to serve

Buttermilk fried shrimp on a sheet tray with a strainer next to it.

Photo by Chelsea Kyle, Food Styling by Anna Stockwell

This classic New Orleans-style shrimp is dipped in buttermilk then coated in cornmeal before frying for a flavorful crunchy exterior.

Recipe information

Yield
Serves 4

Ingredients

2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Vegetable oil for frying

1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp (about 36), peeled, deveined

1 cup buttermilk

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup cornmeal

Rémoulade Sauce (optional), to serve

Preparation

Step 1
Whisk salt, cayenne, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and onion powder in a small bowl to blend.
Step 2
Attach a deep-fry thermometer to side of a heavy wide pot. Add enough oil to measure 2". Heat over medium heat to 350°F.
Step 3
Meanwhile, place shrimp and 2 tablespoons spice mix in a medium bowl and toss to coat. Pour buttermilk into another medium bowl. Whisk flour and cornmeal in another medium bowl.
Step 4
Dip seasoned shrimp briefly in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture. Working in batches, fry shrimp, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and just cooked through, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
Step 5
Serve shrimp with rémoulade sauce.

TagsCajun & Creole Southern American Shrimp Shellfish Seafood Buttermilk Dairy Cornmeal Flour Paprika Herbs & Spices Main Starter Dinner Nut Free Fry Bon Appétit

Recipe notes

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