Deep Frying Frozen Shrimp: The Ultimate How-To Guide

Crispy deep fried shrimp is a delicious appetizer or main dish that can be enjoyed year round. While fresh shrimp works great, many home cooks opt for the convenience of frozen shrimp. However, deep frying straight from frozen can lead to subpar results. Follow this guide to learn if and how you can successfully deep fry previously frozen shrimp.

Can You Deep Fry Frozen Shrimp?

The short answer is yes you can absolutely deep fry shrimp directly from the freezer. However, there are a few caveats to keep in mind

• Frozen shrimp contains ice crystals that can cause hot oil to splatter dangerously when added. Always thaw first.

• Breading and batter won’t adhere properly to icy frozen shrimp, Thawing allows coatings to stick better

• The center of frozen shrimp may still be icy cold even if outer layer is thawed This leads to uneven cooking

• Dense block of frozen shrimp takes longer to cook through, risking burnt exterior and raw interior.

So for best results, always make sure to fully thaw frozen shrimp before frying.

Thawing Frozen Shrimp for Frying

Here are some quick and easy methods to safely thaw frozen shrimp:

• Cold water – Place frozen shrimp in a colander or bowl in the sink. Run a steady stream of cold tap water over the shrimp until completely thawed. This takes about 10-15 minutes depending on amount.

• Refrigerator – Put frozen shrimp in a bowl and leave overnight in the fridge. Ensure shrimp is kept 40°F or below.

• Microwave – Microwave frozen shrimp on defrost setting in 30 second bursts. Check often to avoid cooking.

Once thawed, pat shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels. Any excess moisture will prevent the breading from crisping up properly during frying.

How to Bread and Fry Thawed Shrimp

Breading adds that signature crunch and flavor to fried shrimp. Follow this easy procedure:

• Season flour – Mix flour with salt, pepper and spices like cayenne, paprika or Old Bay.

• Coat in flour – Dredge thawed shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.

• Dip in egg wash – Beat a few eggs with some water or milk for the wash.

• Press into breadcrumbs – Panko makes an extra crispy coating.

• Fry in hot oil – 350-375°F for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

• Drain on paper towels – Remove excess grease for crispiest texture.

Helpful Tips for Frying Success

Here are some handy tips for guaranteed perfect results:

• Use medium or large size shrimp with shell removed

• Chill shrimp in freezer 10-15 minutes before breading to help coating stick better

• Allow breaded shrimp to rest in fridge for 10 minutes before frying

• Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature – don’t overcrowd

• Use thermometer to regulate oil temperature – too low and shrimp will be soggy

• Work very quickly and fry immediately after breading

• Turn shrimp frequently while frying for even browning

• Drain fried shrimp on a rack or paper towels to remove excess oil

• Season hot shrimp right out of the fryer with salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning

Best Oil for Frying Frozen Shrimp

Choosing the right oil for deep frying shrimp is key to achieving optimal flavor and texture:

• Peanut oil – High smoke point of 450°F. Neutral flavor best complements shrimp.

• Vegetable oil – Affordable option with smoke point around 400°F.

• Canola oil – Mild flavor. High 400°F smoke point. Withstands frying heat.

• Corn oil – Also has 400°F smoke point. Inexpensive. Good stability.

Avoid olive oil as it can burn at high frying temperatures and impart heavy flavor.

Serving Up Crispy Fried Shrimp

Golden fried shrimp fresh out of the fryer calls for some delicious accompaniments:

• Dipping sauces – Cocktail, tartar, remoulade, sriracha mayo, sweet chili.

• Fresh lemon wedges – Bright, tart juice cuts through the crispy richness.

• Crunchy coleslaw – Cool, creamy cabbage slaw.

• French fries – The classic fried pair.

• Hushpuppies – Crispy deep fried cornmeal fritters.

• Mac and cheese – Ooey, cheesy comfort.

• Potato salad – Chunky potatoes in creamy mayo dressing.

For a lighter meal, serve fried shrimp over a fresh garden salad. Top with diced avocado and citrus vinaigrette rather than heavy creamy dressings.

Is Deep Fried Shrimp Healthy?

Obviously deep fried foods come with certain nutritional tradeoffs. However, shrimp is one of the healthier seafood options that is lower in mercury contamination. Frying frozen shrimp rather than breaded, pre-fried shrimp found in the freezer aisle also gives you more control over ingredients used.

Here are some tips for lighter fried shrimp:

• Use whole grain flour and panko for coating – extra fiber and nutrients

• Try baking or air frying instead of deep frying – lower calorie cooking methods

• Spritz shrimp with olive oil spray before air frying for crispness without deep frying

• Partner with fresh veggie sides like roasted broccoli or grilled asparagus

• Use heart-healthy olive, avocado or walnut oil for frying instead of traditional vegetable oil

• Watch portion sizes – stick to 4-6 pieces as a serving

• Substitute Greek yogurt for mayo or sour cream in dipping sauces

Enjoying deep fried shrimp occasionally as part of an overall healthy diet is perfectly fine. Just be mindful of how it’s prepared and what you pair it with.

So go ahead and deep fry that frozen shrimp with confidence! Thaw it first, use a flavorful high heat oil, bread it crispy, fry it hot and fast, then drain it well. Served up with zesty dipping sauces and fresh sides, pub-style fried shrimp can be a breeze to make at home.