Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Shrimp and coating
Frying oil
Accompaniments (choose fries or fruit)
Finishing
Method
Prep shrimp and coating
Prepare shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. If not already done, peel and devein, leaving tails on for a nicer presentation. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing coating.
Make dry mix
In a shallow bowl combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine.
Make wet mix
In a separate shallow bowl whisk the 2 eggs with 2 tablespoons milk until smooth.
Place the breadcrumbs or panko in a third shallow bowl. If you prefer a finer crust, pulse panko once in a food processor to break large flakes.
Frying
Heat oil
Pour about 3–4 cups of neutral oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, leaving at least 2 inches of headspace. Attach a thermometer and heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small pinch of flour — it should sizzle and brown slowly.
Coat shrimp
Working in batches of 6–8 shrimp (do not overcrowd), dredge each shrimp first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg wash, then press into the breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly. Place coated shrimp on a tray and repeat with remaining shrimp.
Fry shrimp
Carefully lower a few coated shrimp into the hot oil using tongs or a spider. Fry 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning once. Internal shrimp should be opaque and firm. Do not overcook. Remove with a slotted spoon to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to paper towels to drain. Season lightly with salt while hot. Maintain oil temperature between 325–350°F by adjusting heat; allow oil to return to temperature between batches.
Accompaniments and finishing
Cook fries (if chosen)
If serving fries, cook according to package instructions or your preferred method (oven-baked: toss fries with 1 tablespoon oil and a pinch of salt, bake at 425°F/220°C for 20–30 minutes until golden, flipping halfway). Keep warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) while finishing shrimp.