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Crispy Shrimp Fritters Recipe

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3.9 from 15 reviews

Shrimp Fritters are crispy, golden-brown bites brimming with tender shrimp, green onions, and a blend of savory seasonings. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these fritters combine a light, flavorful batter with the rich taste of shrimp for a delightful, quick-to-make treat.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 Tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • ¾ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

Wet Ingredients

  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 Tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg

Main Ingredients

  • 2 (6 ounce) cans tiny shrimp, well drained (or 8 ounces finely chopped cooked shrimp)
  • ¼ cup sliced green onion (or sliced chives)

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: Pour about 4 inches of oil into a Dutch oven, a large pot, or a deep fryer. Heat the oil to 325°F, ensuring it does not get too hot to avoid burning the fritters’ exterior before cooking through.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream, vegetable oil, and egg until well blended.
  4. Create Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is smooth with no dry patches.
  5. Add Shrimp and Green Onion: Fold in the drained shrimp and sliced green onions evenly throughout the batter.
  6. Fry the Fritters: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, gently drop portions of batter into the hot oil in small batches (5-6 at a time). Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning.
  7. Drain and Keep Warm: Transfer the cooked fritters onto a paper-towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, then place them on a wire rack set over a sheet tray to keep crispy. Keep warm in a 200°F oven while frying remaining batches.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for maximum crispness and flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure oil temperature is maintained at 325°F for perfect frying; too hot oil will burn fritters.
  • Drain shrimp thoroughly to prevent batter from becoming watery.
  • Use a wire rack after frying to keep fritters crispy instead of letting them sit on paper towels.
  • The pinch of cayenne pepper is optional but adds a subtle heat.
  • These fritters are best served fresh and hot.