Osteen’s Fried Shrimp : This recipe delivers perfectly crisp, golden shrimp that are irresistibly juicy on the inside. Each bite is a harmony of light, flaky batter and fresh-from-the-sea flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers.
History of Osteen’s Fried Shrimp
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s worth noting the origins of this beloved dish. Osteen’s Restaurant, located in St. Augustine, Florida, has been serving up their famous fried shrimp for over 50 years.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Fried Shrimp
- Buttermilk bath: The buttermilk isn’t just for flavor—it also helps tenderize the shrimp and ensures that the breading adheres well. Don’t skip this step!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying too many shrimp at once will drop the temperature of the oil, leading to soggy shrimp instead of crispy ones. Work in batches if necessary.
- Oil temperature matters: The oil should be around 350°F. Too low, and your shrimp will absorb too much oil; too high, and they’ll burn before cooking through. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a little batter in the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Variations on Osteen’s Fried Shrimp
While the classic recipe is unbeatable, here are a few ways to mix things up and create your own twist:
Southern-Style Fried Shrimp: Replace the paprika with smoked paprika and add a dash of garlic powder for a more Southern flavor profile.
Spicy Fried Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk soak or flour mixture to give your shrimp a spicy kick.
Coconut Shrimp: Mix sweetened shredded coconut into the breading for a tropical variation. Serve with a tangy mango or pineapple dipping sauce.
How to Serve Osteen’s Fried Shrimp
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Here are some ideas on how to serve your homemade Osteen’s Fried Shrimp:
- With a Classic Southern Side: Pair the shrimp with coleslaw, hush puppies, or French fries for a traditional seafood platter.
- In a Shrimp Po’ Boy: Serve the shrimp on a toasted hoagie roll with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of remoulade sauce for a delicious sandwich.
- As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp with a dipping sauce, such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a tangy aioli.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious), here’s how to store and reheat them:
To reheat: To retain their crispy texture, reheat the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the shrimp soggy.
To store: Place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Be sure to let the shrimp cool completely before freezing, and store them in a single layer to prevent sticking.
Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
For the best results, use fresh, large shrimp, ideally from the Gulf of Mexico or the East Coast. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp can work well too—just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before soaking in the buttermilk.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or even try using rice flour, which adds a delightful crunch. Ensure your cornmeal is also gluten-free.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
While traditional Osteen’s shrimp is fried for maximum crispiness, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F, lightly spray the shrimp with oil, and bake on a wire rack for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Osteen's Fried Shrimp
Osteen's Fried Shrimp : This recipe delivers perfectly crisp, golden shrimp that are irresistibly juicy on the inside. Each bite is a harmony of light, flaky batter and fresh-from-the-sea flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 tbsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 cups flour
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp salt
Instructions
- Clean, peel, and devein your shrimp to get them ready for coating.
- In one bowl, mix your flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and hot sauce for a zesty marinade.
- Dip the shrimp in the egg mixture, then dredge in the seasoned flour for a crispy coating.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches until they’re golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain the shrimp on paper towels and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 587Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 573mgSodium 5684mgCarbohydrates 55gFiber 3gSugar 1gProtein 62g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Osteen’s Fried Shrimp is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of Southern tradition. The crunchy exterior, juicy shrimp, and bold seasoning make this dish a standout. Whether you’re replicating the recipe at home for the first time or putting your own twist on it, Osteen’s Fried Shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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