The key to fried shrimp is having the right sized shrimp. We have found that a size 24 shrimp, basically 24 shrimp to a pound, are the perfect size for making fried shrimp. They are not too large and not too small. Basically the Goldilocks of shrimp.
Prepping the Shrimp
Peel the shrimp leaving on the tail. Remove the vein and then butterfly the shrimp. This not only makes the shrimp look pretty, it allows for more surface area for the breading to attach to. Basically more crunchy goodness!
The Dredging Station
Before we get to making the fried shrimp, we have to set up our dredging station. This includes one bowl for seasoned flour, one bowl for seasoned egg mixture and one bowl for the bbq seasoned bread crumbs. If you notice, the key to the ultimate fried bbq shrimp is to season each and every ingredient.
To make the seasoned flour, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper.
Mix 2 eggs with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper and 2 tbs milk. Whisk until blended.
Mix 1 cup unseasoned bread crumbs with 2.5 Tbs bbq rub. You can use your favorite rub, but we really love our basic bbq rub.
Breading the Shrimp
Dip the peeled and butterflied shrimp into the flour. Make sure to knock off the excess flour.
Dip the floured shrimp into the egg wash.
Coat with the shrimp with the perfectly bbq seasoned bread crumbs.
Frying the shrimp
Fry the shrimp in preheated 375 degree oil for 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown.