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Cajun Fried Shrimp

Cajun Fried Shrimp: Crispy, Spicy Bliss You Must Try!

Cajun Fried Shrimp is a Southern gem that creates lively celebrations with a perfectly seasoned crust and zesty flavor.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Substitute with plain yogurt if needed.
  • 2 large Eggs A flax egg works for a vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Hot Sauce Adjust based on your heat preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard Dijon can replace it for a sharper flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Feel free to use store-bought or homemade mix.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust quantities to suit your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
For the Frying
  • 1 pound Raw Shrimp (peeled and deveined with tails on) Large or jumbo shrimp work best for frying.
  • 1 cup Cornmeal Gluten-free alternatives include fine ground cornmeal.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
  • as needed Canola or Vegetable Oil Used for frying; peanut oil can add extra flavor.
For the Dipping Sauce
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • 1 tablespoon Horseradish Adjust to taste for spice levels.
  • 1 tablespoon Ketchup Use sugar-free ketchup for a healthier version.
  • 1 tablespoon Pickle Juice Add more if you love that tang!
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Taste and adjust as desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne Taste and adjust as desired.

Equipment

  • Medium Bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • Deep Frying Pan or Dutch Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Fried Shrimp
  1. Whisk together mayonnaise, horseradish, ketchup, pickle juice, paprika, salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne in a medium bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Whisk together buttermilk, eggs, hot sauce, mustard, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add the raw shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  3. Combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and additional Cajun seasoning in another bowl. Mix well for an even distribution of spices.
  4. Heat canola or vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  5. Dip each marinated shrimp in the seasoned breading and fry in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn them for even cooking.
  6. Remove the shrimp from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Serve hot with the spicy dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 4shrimpCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, marinate the shrimp, and avoid overcrowding the frying pan.

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