Popcorn shrimp is a favorite appetizer or snack that combines tender, juicy shrimp with a light and crispy coating. Perfect for parties, game day snacks, or even as a light dinner, these bite-sized seafood treats are quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
What Is Popcorn Shrimp?
Popcorn shrimp is a dish made from small shrimp (usually less than 40 per pound) that are breaded and fried until golden brown. The term “popcorn” comes from their small, bite-sized appearance—perfect for popping into your mouth one after another. It’s a dish often served with dipping sauces like cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or spicy remoulade.
The Perfect Shrimp for Popcorn Shrimp
The key to making the best popcorn shrimp starts with choosing the right shrimp. Look for small shrimp, usually labeled as “extra small” or “baby shrimp” in the seafood section. Here’s a quick guide to selecting your shrimp:
- Size: Small shrimp, typically between 61-70 shrimp per pound, work best.
- Frozen or Fresh: Either fresh or frozen shrimp can work, but if using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before breading.
- Peeled and Deveined: Opt for shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save time in preparation.
Quick Tip: Avoid Overcooking
Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking them can result in a tough, rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them while frying, and as soon as they turn golden brown, they’re ready to go!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Popcorn Shrimp
- Use Panko for Extra Crunch: For a crunchier texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. The airy texture of panko gives the shrimp an irresistible crispiness.
- Spice it Up: If you like your food with a kick, don’t be afraid to add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even chili flakes to your breading mixture.
- Fry in Small Batches: Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature of the oil, leading to soggy shrimp. Frying in small batches ensures they turn out perfectly crispy every time.
- Test Oil Temperature: If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it. If it sizzles and browns within 60 seconds, the oil is ready.
Variations on Popcorn Shrimp
While the classic recipe is a fan favorite, there are plenty of variations to explore:
Air-Fryer Popcorn Shrimp: If you’re looking for a healthier option, air-frying is a great alternative. Coat the shrimp as usual, then air fry them at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.
Baked Popcorn Shrimp: For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded shrimp in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Coconut Popcorn Shrimp: Add a tropical twist by mixing shredded coconut into the breadcrumb mixture. This adds a slightly sweet flavor and extra crunch to your shrimp.
How to Serve Popcorn Shrimp
Popcorns is incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with a variety of dipping sauces and sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.
- As a Topping: Add popcorns to tacos, salads, or pasta for a fun and flavorful protein boost.
- On a Platter: Serve on a large platter with lemon wedges, alongside other appetizers like calamari, fried zucchini, or mozzarella sticks.
- With Sides: Pair with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, or a light green salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Popcorn Shrimp
If you have leftovers (although they tend to disappear quickly!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerating: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked and cooled shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for popcorn shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works just as well as fresh shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before breading.
Q: Can I bake popcorn shrimp instead of frying?
A: Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
Q: How do I keep popcorn shrimp crispy for longer?
A: To keep the shrimp crispy, place them on a wire rack after frying instead of directly on a plate. This prevents them from getting soggy due to trapped moisture.
Q: Can I use larger shrimp?
A: You can, but keep in mind that the charm of popcorn shrimp lies in their bite-sized nature. Larger shrimp might require more cooking time and won’t have the same “popcorn” feel.
Popcorn Shrimp
Popcorn shrimp is a favorite appetizer or snack that combines tender, juicy shrimp with a light and crispy coating. Perfect for parties, game day snacks, or even as a light dinner, these bite-sized seafood treats are quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons salt (plus more for serving)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, salt, paprika, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Coat the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry, toss them in a large bowl with 1/4 cup of the flour mixture until they're evenly coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat 3-4 inches of oil to 375°F.
- Make the Egg Wash: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Bread the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the milk mixture, then dredge it in the remaining seasoned flour.
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry 8-10 shrimp at a time in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
- Drain & Serve: Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining shrimp. Finish by sprinkling with fresh parsley and a touch of salt. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 335Total Fat 7gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 287mgSodium 2158mgCarbohydrates 33gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 32g
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.
Conclusion
Popcorn shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re frying them up for a party or serving them as a quick weeknight meal, this easy recipe is sure to satisfy. With endless variations and dipping sauces, you can customize popcorn shrimp to your heart’s content. Follow these tips and tricks, and you’ll have golden, crispy shrimp that everyone will love.
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