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Close-up of crispy, golden Calabash shrimp with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, set on a rustic wooden table.

Calabash Shrimp Recipe: How to Make Light and Crispy Southern-Style Fried Shrimp

This Calabash shrimp recipe creates light, crispy shrimp with a golden coating, perfect for any Southern-inspired meal. Simple yet flavorful, it’s ideal for serving with traditional sides like hush puppies and coleslaw.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, seafood, Southern
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup Cornmeal
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

  • Deep fryer or large frying pan
  • tongs
  • Wire rack
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Thaw the shrimp if frozen, then pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Make the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture until fully coated.
  4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Drain: Remove the shrimp from the oil and drain on a wire rack to keep them crispy.
  6. Serve: Serve the shrimp hot with your favorite dipping sauce and side dishes.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating mixture for a mild heat.
  • Serve with classic Southern sides like coleslaw and hush puppies for the perfect meal.