G.I. Batter-Fried Shrimp: A Crispy, Golden Shrimp Recipe with Military-Style Precision
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday. One of the highlights of these meals was my grandmother’s G.I. Batter-Fried Shrimp. This recipe is not just about the food; it’s a celebration of family, memories, and the joy of cooking with precision. The crispy, golden shrimp, perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, always brought smiles to our faces. Today, I want to share this cherished recipe with you, so you can create your own delicious memories.
G.I. Batter-Fried Shrimp
A crispy, golden shrimp recipe crafted with military-style precision, featuring a flavorful batter that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 25 min
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the batter adheres properly.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until the batter is smooth and slightly thick.
- In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 calories
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 20g
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Facebook PinterestWhy This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this G.I. Batter-Fried Shrimp recipe stands out from the rest:
- Military-Style Precision: Just like a well-executed mission, this recipe requires attention to detail. Each step is crucial to achieving that perfect crunch and flavor.
- Flavorful Batter: The batter is a blend of spices and ingredients that not only coats the shrimp but also enhances their natural sweetness. The combination of flour, cornstarch, and seasonings creates a light yet crispy texture.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Versatile Dish: While shrimp is the star, this batter can be used for other proteins or vegetables, allowing for endless variations and creativity in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential to ensure the batter adheres properly.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until the batter is smooth and slightly thick.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Fry the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Chill the Batter: For an even crispier texture, chill the batter in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before using it.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the batter for a unique twist. Consider adding lemon zest or dill for a fresh flavor.
- Use a Thermometer: If you have one, use a cooking thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) for frying.
- Try Different Proteins: This batter works wonderfully with chicken tenders, fish fillets, or even vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- Homemade tartar sauce or cocktail sauce
- Crispy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
- Steamed rice or garlic bread to soak up the flavors
- A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before battering.
What if I don’t have cornstarch? You can substitute it with an equal amount of flour, but the texture may be slightly different.
Can I bake these instead of frying? While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This G.I. Batter-Fried Shrimp recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect with family and friends over delicious food. The crispy texture and flavorful batter make it a crowd-pleaser, while the simplicity of the recipe allows anyone to recreate it with ease. I love this dish because it brings back fond memories of laughter and togetherness, and I believe it will do the same for you.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this G.I. Batter-Fried Shrimp recipe and share your experience! Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, I’d love to hear your thoughts and any suggestions you might have. Happy cooking!
G.I. Batter-Fried Shrimp: A Crispy, Golden Shrimp Recipe with Military-Style Precision
Ingredients
- Homemade tartar sauce or cocktail sauce
- Crispy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
- Steamed rice or garlic bread to soak up the flavors
- A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential to ensure the batter adheres properly.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until the batter is smooth and slightly thick.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Fry the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
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