Ultimate Fried Shrimp

My father-in-law is a huge fan of fried shrimp. The last time he came to visit we decided to dust off the deep fryer and make some fried shrimp. We started with some fresh shrimp, dredged them in egg wash and coated them with seasoned panko bread crumbs. The results were fantastic!  The best fried shrimp ever!

Ultimate Fried Shrimp

The key to fried shrimp is having the right sized shrimp.  We have found that a size 24 shrimp, basically 24 shrimp to a pound, is the perfect size for making fried shrimp.  They are not too large and not too small. Basically the Goldilocks of shrimp.

Prepping the Shrimp

Peel the shrimp leaving on the tail.  Remove the vein and then butterfly the shrimp.  This not only makes the shrimp look pretty, it allows for more surface area for the breading to attach to.  Basically more crunchy goodness!

The Dredging Station

Before we get to making the fried shrimp, we have to set up our dredging station.  This includes one bowl for seasoned flour, one bowl for seasoned egg mixture and one bowl for seasoned panko bread crumbs.  If you notice, the key to the ultimate fried shrimp is to season each and every ingredient.

Seasoned flour

To make the seasoned flour, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper.

Seasoned Egg Wash

Mix 2 eggs with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper and 2 tbs milk.  Whisk until blended.

Seasoned Panko Bread Crumbs

Mix 1 cup panko bread crumbs with 1/2 tsp seasoned salt.

Breading the Shrimp

Dip the peeled and butterflied shrimp into the flour.  Make sure to knock off the excess flour.

Dip the floured shrimp into the egg wash.

Coat with the shrimp with the perfectly seasoned panko bread crumbs.

Frying the shrimp

Fry the shrimp in preheated 375 degree oil for 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove the shrimp and allow the grease to drain.  Then serve with your favorite dipping sauce/ cocktail sauce.