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Crispy Fried Shrimp with Spicy Dipping Sauce

This dish features whole shrimp coated in a seasoned batter, then fried until golden and crispy. The final texture is crunchy on the outside with juicy, tender shrimp inside, served alongside an addictive, quick-to-make dipping sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined tails on optional
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour flour
  • 1 egg large egg
  • 1/2 cup water cold water for batter
  • 1 teaspoon paprika paprika for flavor and color
  • 1 teaspoon salt salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper black pepper
  • 1 cup peanut oil peanut oil for frying
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise mayonnaise for sauce base
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce hot sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon honey honey

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Deep skillet or frying pan
  • Tongs or slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Measure and set aside all ingredients. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels; this helps the batter stick better.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with cold water until smooth. This will be the wet component of the batter.
  4. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy but coats the shrimp evenly.
  5. Heat the peanut oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test this by dropping a small amount of batter—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
  6. Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Carefully lower the shrimp into the hot oil, one at a time, using tongs or a slotted spoon.
  7. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they turn crispy and golden brown. You should hear a consistent bubbling sound.
  8. Remove the cooked shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat with remaining shrimp.
  9. While the shrimp is frying, prepare the spicy dipping sauce by whisking mayo, hot sauce, and honey together in a small bowl until smooth.
  10. Arrange the crispy fried shrimp on a serving platter and serve immediately with the spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Ensure oil is at the right temperature for crispy results. Do not overcrowd the pan to prevent temperature drops. Serve hot for the best texture.