Beer Batter Fried Shrimp is a fun and tasty dish! It features juicy shrimp coated in a crispy beer batter that gives it a golden crunch. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Honestly, what’s better than crispy shrimp? I love enjoying them with a squeeze of lemon or dipping them in my favorite sauce. It’s a great way to impress friends at dinner. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works just as well—just thaw them first! For a different flavor, try using scallops or white fish fillets instead.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a light, crispy batter. If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. I sometimes use cornstarch for even crispier results!
Beer: Lager or pale ale give a nice flavor, but any light beer will work. If you want to avoid alcohol, club soda is a great alternative for the batter, helping it stay light and fluffy.
Dipping Sauce: Feel free to customize the sauce! You can add garlic powder for a kick or use yogurt instead of mayo for a tangy twist. Don’t forget fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor!
How Do I Fry Shrimp Without It Getting Greasy?
The key to crispy, non-greasy fried shrimp is the oil temperature. If the oil is too cold, the batter absorbs more grease. Here’s how to keep it just right:
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be around 350°F (175°C).
- Fry in small batches to avoid temperature drops. Overcrowding the pot leads to soggy shrimp.
- Let the shrimp drain on paper towels after frying; this removes excess oil and keeps them crispy.
With these tips, your shrimp will be golden and crunchy—just how fried food should be! Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Make Beer Batter Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on preferred)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dredging
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold beer (lager or pale ale recommended)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to fry, making it a quick and easy option for a tasty meal. Enjoy it fresh and hot for the best experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by rinsing your shrimp under cool water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle a light pinch of salt and pepper over the shrimp to season them lightly.
2. Make the Batter:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually pour in the cold beer, whisking continuously until the mixture forms a smooth batter. It should be slightly thick but still pourable for coating the shrimp.
3. Preheat the Oil:
In a deep pot or fryer, heat approximately 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer helps ensure the oil reaches the right temperature for frying.
4. Dredge the Shrimp:
Coat each shrimp lightly in some plain flour, shaking off any excess. This helps the batter stick better, leading to a perfect crunch!
5. Batter and Fry:
Dip each floured shrimp into the beer batter, letting any extra drip back into the bowl. Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil, frying them in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each shrimp until they turn golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
6. Drain the Shrimp:
Using a slotted spoon, carefully lift the fried shrimp out of the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil, keeping the shrimp crispy.
7. Make the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, lemon juice, and chopped chives until everything is well combined. This creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements the crispy shrimp!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your crispy beer-battered shrimp, garnishing with lemon wedges and a side of dipping sauce. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavor with every bite!
Now, grab a delicious cold drink and enjoy your meal with friends or family for a delightful feast! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Beer for the Batter?
Yes, you can use any light beer you prefer! Lagers and pale ales work best, but if you want a unique flavor, consider using wheat beer or even a hard soda for a twist. Just make sure it’s cold for the best batter consistency!
How Do I Keep the Fried Shrimp Crispy After Cooking?
To keep the shrimp crispy, avoid stacking them on top of each other after frying. Instead, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet or a platter lined with paper towels. Serve them immediately for the best texture, or keep them in a warm oven (set to about 200°F) until ready to eat.
Can I Make the Dipping Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dipping sauce a day ahead. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving!
What Should I Do If the Batter Is Too Thick?
If you find that the batter is too thick to coat the shrimp properly, you can add a little more cold beer, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to stick but still pourable!
