Southern Fried Shrimp

Ingredients:!

• For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Frying:
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Shrimp
   Place the cleaned shrimp in a bowl.
   Pour in the buttermilk and optional hot sauce.
   Toss to coat and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Coating
   In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
3. Coat the Shrimp
   Remove shrimp from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
   Toss each shrimp in the dry coating mixture until fully covered.
4. Heat the Oil
   Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot (about 1–2 inches deep).
   Heat to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Shrimp
   Fry shrimp in small batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
   Remove and place on a paper towel–lined plate.
6. Serve
   Enjoy immediately with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or your favorite dip.