Today, the savory aroma of frying shrimp wafts through the air as communities along the Gulf of Mexico celebrate National Fried Shrimp Day. This culinary event holds a special place in the hearts of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach residents, where the art of frying shrimp is a cherished tradition.

Fried shrimp is more than just a dish in this region; it's a symbol of the Gulf's rich culinary heritage. The warm, nutrient-rich waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide an abundant supply of shrimp, making it a staple in local cuisine. On National Fried Shrimp Day, this beloved seafood takes center stage, showcasing the unique flavors and cooking techniques passed down through generations.

Throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, restaurants and households alike will join in and offer their take on the perfect fried shrimp. From classic, golden-battered shrimp to recipes with a modern twist, the variety is endless. Food enthusiasts and families gather to indulge in this crispy delight, sharing stories and recipes.

If you want to participate in this annual tradition, here’s a recipe for Southern Fried Shrimp that you can try out for tonight’s dinner…

Classic Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe

Indulge in the flavors of the South with this classic Southern Fried Shrimp recipe. Crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, these shrimp are perfect for a family dinner, a social gathering, or just a comforting meal at home.

Ingredients:

• 
  1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp:

• 
  Clean the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they are thoroughly dry to ensure the coating sticks properly.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• 
  In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Prepare the Wet Mixture:

• 
  In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the buttermilk.

Cornmeal:

• 
  Place the cornmeal in a separate shallow dish.

Coating the Shrimp:

• 
  Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, then the egg-buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it well with the cornmeal.

Frying:

• 
  Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to cover the shrimp.
• Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches. Do not overcrowd the pan.
• Fry for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. The shrimp should be pink and slightly curled when done.

Drain:

• 
  Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serving:

• 
  Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce, like a classic cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a spicy rémoulade.
• Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

• 
  Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature before adding the shrimp to avoid soggy or overly greasy results.
• For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the egg-buttermilk mixture.
• Don't overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.

Enjoy your Southern Fried Shrimp with sides like coleslaw, hush puppies, or a simple salad for a complete meal that brings the taste of the South to your table!