Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Place in a bowl and toss with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Let sit 10 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the breading. Dry shrimp again lightly so coating adheres.

Breading Station

Set up three bowls

In bowl 1 combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne and optional cornmeal; whisk to combine. In bowl 2 whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. In bowl 3 place the panko breadcrumbs.

Coat the shrimp

Working in batches, dredge each shrimp first in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess; then dip into the egg mixture allowing excess to drip back into the bowl; then press into the panko breadcrumbs to fully coat. Place coated shrimp on a wire rack and let rest 5–10 minutes so the coating adheres. Repeat until all shrimp are coated.

Frying

Heat oil

Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to a depth of about 1.5 inches (roughly 3–4 cups depending on pan). Attach a thermometer and heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small piece of bread; it should brown in about 60 seconds.

Fry shrimp

Fry shrimp in small batches (do not overcrowd) for 2 to 3 minutes per batch, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature ~145°F or opaque and firm). Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer shrimp to a paper towel-lined tray or wire rack set over a sheet pan to drain. Maintain oil temperature between 340–360°F by adjusting heat.

Season and rest

While still hot, sprinkle the fried shrimp lightly with 1/2 tsp finishing salt and chopped parsley if using. Let rest 1–2 minutes before serving so the coating firms up slightly.

Dipping Sauce (optional)

Make sauce

Whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp hot sauce, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp paprika and 1/8 tsp salt in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning or heat as desired. Chill until ready to serve.

Serve

Serve the fried shrimp immediately with lemon wedges and the dipping sauce on the side. Fried shrimp are best enjoyed hot and crisp.