Cajun Popcorn Shrimp
Crispy, spicy, and irresistibly bite-sized, Cajun Popcorn Shrimp is the ultimate appetizer or snack that’s bursting with bold flavors. These tender shrimp are marinated in tangy buttermilk infused with Cajun seasoning, then coated in a perfectly seasoned mixture of flour and cornmeal for a golden, crunchy crust. Deep-fried until irresistibly crispy, each piece packs the smoky heat of paprika, garlic, and pepper, balanced with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for game day, casual gatherings, or even a quick weeknight indulgence. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in no time!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups oil for frying
- 4 pieces lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
Step 1
In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Add the shrimp to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Step 2
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornmeal, the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3
Heat the oil for frying in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is correct.
Step 4
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat the shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating adheres well.
Step 5
Shake off any excess flour mixture and place the shrimp on a plate or baking sheet while you finish coating all of them.
Step 6
Fry the shrimp in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7
Remove the shrimp using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 8
Serve the Cajun Popcorn Shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1952.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 9590.9 |
| Total Fat 962.1g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 141.2g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g | |
| Cholesterol 886.0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 7458.3mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 200.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 17.5g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 16.1g | |
| Protein 137.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 126.9IU | 0% |
| Calcium 520.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 11.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2026.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories