Beer Batter Fried Shrimp are crispy and tasty! The light, golden batter makes each bite a little party in your mouth. They’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
When I make these, I can’t help but steal a few shrimps before they hit the plate—oops! 🦐 The great thing is, they’re easy to whip up, so I can enjoy them anytime. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here! If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp work just as well—just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. If you’re allergic to shrimp, try using fish like cod or even cauliflower for a vegetarian alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the way to go for a light, crispy batter. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, use a blend of gluten-free flour or cornstarch. Both can create a nice texture just like regular flour.
Beer: Any light beer like lager or pilsner adds flavor to the batter. Don’t drink alcohol? Use sparkling water or soda instead. This gives you a similar carbonation effect for a nice crispy finish!
Dipping Sauces: Feel free to customize your sauces! I love a mix of mayonnaise with lime juice for something zesty. You can also swap spicy mayo for ranch dressing or honey mustard for a different flavor twist!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Batter Consistency?
The key to a great beer batter is getting the right thickness. You want it to coat the shrimp well without being too runny or too thick. A nice flow that coats the back of a spoon is ideal.
- Start by whisking together the dry ingredients first. This ensures everything is well mixed before adding the liquid.
- Pour in the beer gradually, and keep whisking until smooth. If it feels too thick, add a splash more beer or water.
- If your batter is too thin, sprinkle in a bit more flour until you reach the desired consistency.
Remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t be afraid to adjust as you go based on what looks and feels right. Happy cooking!
Beer Batter Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails can be left on)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold beer (lager or pilsner works well)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For Dipping Sauces (Optional):
- Spicy mayo (mayonnaise mixed with a little sriracha or chili sauce)
- Sweet chili sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook. Don’t forget to account for a little while to enjoy and savor your tasty fried shrimp!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to remove any surface residue. Once rinsed, carefully pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key to ensuring your batter sticks well. After drying, set the shrimp aside.
2. Make the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well incorporated. Gradually pour in the cold beer while continuously whisking until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still flow easily—just right for frying!
3. Dredge the Shrimp:
Take the remaining 1/4 cup of flour and place it in a shallow dish. Lightly coat each shrimp in the flour, shaking off any excess. This will create a great base for the batter to adhere to during frying!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a large, heavy skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to fully submerge the shrimp. Aim for a temperature of 350°F (175°C). It’s important to check the temperature to achieve that crispy finish!
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Dip each floured shrimp into the beer batter, ensuring they’re completely covered, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you can fry in batches if needed. Fry the shrimp until they become golden brown and crispy, usually about 2-3 minutes. Remember to turn them once to ensure even cooking!
6. Drain and Serve:
Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the fried shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining shrimp until all are cooked.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your hot, crispy Beer Batter Fried Shrimp garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. Don’t forget to set out some delicious dipping sauces like spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce for a flavor kick!
Now you’re all set to enjoy these flavorful shrimp. They make a fantastic appetizer or a delightful addition to any meal. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or for a quicker method, submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure the batter sticks well.
What Beer Should I Use for the Batter?
A light beer such as lager or pilsner works best for this recipe, as it adds flavor and helps create a crispy texture. Don’t drink alcohol? You can substitute with sparkling water or soda for a similar effect!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispiness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
What Dipping Sauces Work Well with Fried Shrimp?
Some popular options include spicy mayo (mixing mayonnaise with sriracha or chili sauce), sweet chili sauce, or even classic cocktail sauce. Feel free to get creative with different sauces like tartar sauce or garlic aioli to suit your taste!
