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Crispy Cajun Shrimp

Crispy Cajun Shrimp
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Crispy Cajun Shrimp offers a bold, spicy flavor combined with a satisfying crunchy texture and juicy shrimp inside. Ready in under 30 minutes, this quick and easy recipe uses a vibrant Cajun spice blend and a crispy coating, perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or snack that impresses every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • Fresh or thawed medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1 lb)

Cajun Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond/rice flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Wet Mixture

  • 1 cup buttermilk or 2 beaten eggs

Frying

  • About 2 inches of neutral oil (vegetable or canola) for frying

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Spicy aioli drizzle

Instructions

  1. Prep the Shrimp: Begin by peeling and deveining your shrimp if needed. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the coating stick better and prevent sogginess.
  2. Mix the Cajun Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine flour with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Dip the Shrimp: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk or beaten eggs. Dip each shrimp into the wet mixture, coating thoroughly, then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture until fully covered.
  4. Fry to Perfection: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels.
  5. Serve Warm: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or garnishes, such as fresh lemon wedges or chopped parsley, to enjoy the full crispy texture and spicy flavor.

Notes

  • Patting the shrimp dry before coating ensures better adhesion and crispiness.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F using a thermometer to prevent greasy shrimp.
  • Fry in small batches to cook shrimp evenly and retain crispiness.
  • Allow coated shrimp to rest a few minutes before frying to help the coating set.
  • Use fresh Cajun seasoning for more intense flavors compared to old or pre-ground blends.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crispy Cajun Shrimp, Cajun shrimp recipe, spicy shrimp, fried shrimp, quick shrimp appetizer, gluten-free shrimp

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/crispy-cajun-shrimp/