How to Fry Shrimp in the Shell

Start with high-quality raw shrimp for the best flavor.

Fried shrimp is commonly served as an appetizer or a main course, especially in the Southern United States, where it is often served with French fries, potato salad or coleslaw. Fried shrimp is popular in many places, and especially so in coastal towns where fresh shrimp is abundant. While there are numerous variations on fried shrimp, there is a basic method that can be dressed up with fresh herbs and spices if desired.

Things You'll Need

• Sharp knife
• Shrimp, shell on
• Paper towels
• 3 small mixing bowls
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tbsp. cornstarch
• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 cup sea salt
• 1/4 cup freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
• Large sauté pan or wok
• Plate
• Large serving platter
• Freshly chopped parsley (optional)
• Cocktail sauce (optional)
• Drawn butter (optional)

Instructions

1. Remove the head or eyes and tentacles from the shrimp, if desired, with a sharp knife.

2. Make a cut down the center of the shrimp and eviscerate the shrimp by removing the intestinal tract with a sharp knife, which can alter the flavor of the shrimp, giving it a slightly dirty taste. Rinse the shrimp with cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel.

3. Set up three mixing bowls side by side near the stove. Combine 1/2 cup flour and 1 tbsp. cornstarch in the first bowl, 3 beaten egg whites in the second and 1/4 cup sea salt and 1/4 cup freshly ground black pepper in the third.

4. Put 2 tbsp. vegetable oil in a large sauté pan or wok and heat it over medium-high heat until extremely hot but not smoking.

5. Dip the first shrimp in the flour mixture, followed by the egg mixture and then into the salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the oil and cook for about one minute on each side.

6. Repeat the process with the remaining shrimp. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to remove the excess oil.

7. Transfer the fried shrimp to a large serving platter and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all cooks remove the intestinal tract of the shrimp. If you are unsure which method you prefer, try cooking a few shrimp each way and eating them.

• Top the fried shrimp with freshly chopped parsley and serve with cocktail sauce or drawn butter for a classic presentation.

Resources

• foodnetwork.com: Clarified Butter