Crispy Fried Shrimp

These crispy fried shrimp are golden, crunchy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Shërbehen më së miri me një salcë të freskët dhe një fetë limoni, duke krijuar një kombinim perfekt shijeje. Kjo recetë është e thjeshtë, e shpejtë dhe ideale për një pjatë të parë, snack, ose si pjesë e një vakti të plotë.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, deveined, shells removed but tails left on

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

For the Batter

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

• 1 cup cold sparkling water (or regular cold water)

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

For Serving

• Lemon wedges

• Dipping sauce of your choice (tartar sauce, spicy mayo, aioli, etc.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

2. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

3. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and parsley.

2. Add the cold sparkling water gradually and whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thick.

3. The batter should coat the shrimp easily without dripping too much.

Tip: Use very cold water to get an extra-crispy texture.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

1. Add enough oil to a deep pan to cover the shrimp.

2. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).

3. Test the oil by dipping the end of a shrimp in the batter—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

1. Dip each shrimp into the batter, letting any excess drip off.

2. Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil, a few at a time.

3. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.

4. Remove the shrimp and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb extra oil.

Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the crispy shrimp hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
They pair perfectly with tartar sauce, spicy mayo, or a creamy herb dip.