Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe: Golden, Crunchy, and Packed with Flavor

Looking for the perfect fried shrimp recipe that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor? This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know—from prepping the shrimp to mastering the double-fry technique that keeps them crunchy long after frying.

Plus, we’ll explore the health benefits of shrimp and pro cooking tips that make this dish restaurant-quality, right from your kitchen.

Why Shrimp is a Great Choice

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why shrimp is a popular choice for a quick, protein-rich meal:

High in Protein: Shrimp contains over 20g of protein per 100g serving.
Low in Calories and Fat: Ideal for low-carb or weight-loss diets.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Good for heart and brain health.
Packed with Nutrients: Zinc, selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine.
Quick to Cook: Takes just a few minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

1 lb (about 500g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 eggs
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon cooking wine (optional)
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. Prepare and Marinate the Shrimp

Peel and devein the shrimp, then rinse under cold water and pat dry.
In a bowl, combine the shrimp with:
- minced garlic
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp cooking wine (optional, or use a squeeze of lemon juice)
- a pinch of salt and ground black pepper
Mix well, cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes.

Pro Tip: Marinating not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the shrimp.

2. Make the Batter

In a separate bowl:

Beat 2 eggs
Add 3 tablespoons of flour
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper
Whisk until smooth and free of lumps

The batter should be thick enough to coat the shrimp but not too heavy.

3. First Fry: Seal in the Juices

Heat oil in a deep pan to around 340°F (170°C).
Dip each marinated shrimp into the batter and gently drop into the hot oil.
Fry until lightly golden, about 2–3 minutes.
Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

4. Second Fry: The Secret to Extra Crunch

Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Return the shrimp to the hot oil and fry for another 1–2 minutes until deeply golden and extra crispy.

Why double fry?
Double frying ensures the outer crust stays crispy even after cooling. The first fry cooks the shrimp; the second crisps the batter.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your fried shrimp hot with:

Tartar sauce or garlic aioli
Fresh lemon wedges
Side salad or French fries
Steamed rice and vegetables for a balanced meal

Additional Tips

Use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes in the batter for an extra-crispy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—this drops the oil temperature and makes the shrimp soggy.
Use neutral oils like canola or sunflower oil that can handle high heat without burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

Can I bake instead of frying?
You can, but it won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is oyster sauce necessary?
It adds depth, but you can skip it or substitute with soy sauce and a pinch of sugar.

Final Thoughts

This crispy fried shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, it’s guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and can be customized with your favorite sauces and sides. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy