Ah, Wild West Shrimp—a dish that transports you right to the wild, rugged terrains of flavor. The first time I tasted Wild West Shrimp at LongHorn Steakhouse, I was immediately hooked. The combination of crispiness, spice, and a hint of lemon made an unforgettable impression.
Here I am, ready to share this exciting recipe with you! Not only is it brimming with flavor, but it also allows you to bring a taste of the steakhouse into your own kitchen.
LongHorn’s Wild West Shrimp is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Let’s dig deeper into what this dish is all about and how you can create magic in your own kitchen.
What is LongHorn Steakhouse Wild West Shrimp?
In essence, Wild West Shrimp is an enthralling appetizer or main dish that features shrimp, lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection.
Each piece is seasoned with a spicy blend and coated in a buttermilk batter, then served with a zesty ranch dressing for dipping. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but its dual textures—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—create an enjoyable dining experience.
Why This Recipe Works
Wild West Shrimp has several appealing features. Here’s why:
1. Irresistible Crunch
The combination of self-rising flour and buttermilk creates a light, crispy coating that retains moisture in the shrimp. It’s a texture you won’t forget.
2. Flavor Explosion
The mix of spices—from cayenne to smoked paprika—offers a complex flavor profile. It’s spicy yet balanced, ensuring a kick without overwhelming your taste buds.
3. Quick and Easy
This recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Trust me; you won’t have to slave away for hours to achieve a restaurant-quality meal.
4. Versatile Use
Wild West Shrimp can serve as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course. Its adaptability means you can impress guests or feed your family any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- Canola or vegetable oil for frying
- 2 teaspoons ground mustard powder
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 3 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- ½ cup sliced cherry peppers
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic paste
- Ranch dressing for dipping
Now that we’re stocked up, let’s get cooking!
How To Make This LongHorn Steakhouse Wild West Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water. This removes any impurities. Dry them gently with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the batter.
Step 2: Make the Buttermilk Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic paste, and lemon juice. This will be your marinade and helps to flavor the shrimp deeply. Add in the shrimp, making sure every piece is well coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the self-rising flour with ground mustard, cracked pepper, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, chili powder, kosher salt, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and onion powder. This mixture will be the dry breading for your shrimp.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F for frying. You can use a thermometer for precision. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of batter into the oil – it should bubble immediately.
Step 5: Batter and Fry the Shrimp
Take the marinated shrimp from the buttermilk mixture and gently coat each piece in the flour mixture. Tap off any excess and place the shrimp carefully in the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid crowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil. Let them drain on paper towels. Serve hot, accompanied by ranch dressing and sliced cherry peppers on the side.
Tips & Tricks
Oil Temperature: Always check the oil temperature before frying. Too hot can burn the shrimp; too cool can lead to greasy results.
Batch Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches for the best texture.
Extra Crunch: For added crunch, double-dip the shrimp. After coating them once, dip them back into the buttermilk and coat again in the flour mixture.
Flavored Oil: Add a couple of sprigs of thyme or rosemary to the oil while it heats. This infuses your shrimp with a subtle herbaceous flavor.
Cooling Time: Let fried shrimp sit for a few minutes post-frying to maintain their crispiness.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Store any leftover Wild West Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the texture may soften upon reheating. You can reheat them in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for a few minutes to revive their crispness.
What Sides Would Complement LongHorn Steakhouse Wild West Shrimp Recipe?
1. Garlic Bread
A side of garlic bread works wonderfully with shrimp. The bread’s soft texture and buttery garlic flavor make for an indulgent pairing. Plus, you can use it to soak up extra ranch dressing!
2. Grilled Vegetables
Fresh grilled vegetables—like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus—add a colorful and nutritious element. The smokiness of the grill complements the shrimp’s spiciness nicely.
3. Fresh Garden Salad
A simple mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the shrimp. Cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion add refreshing textures.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
1. Shrimp Substitutes
If you’re out of shrimp, try chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces or tofu for a vegetarian version. They both cook similarly.
2. Buttermilk Replacement
In a pinch, mix one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
3. Spices
Got no cayenne? You can replace it with a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes for a milder heat. Likewise, chili powder can be substituted with taco seasoning for a different flavor profile.
4. Flour Swap
If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can use all-purpose flour. Just add a teaspoon of baking powder to mimic the puffiness.
Wrapping It Up
Wild West Shrimp offers a tantalizing blend of crunch and flavor. It’s straightforward to make, requires minimal effort, and can easily impress your guests.
This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about enjoying food with friends and family. Whether you’re gathering for a casual dinner or a festive occasion, Wild West Shrimp fits the bill. So gather those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into a culinary adventure that’s both rewarding and delicious. You won’t regret it!
Longhorn Steakhouse Wild West Shrimp Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Description
When enjoying LongHorn Steakhouse's Wild West Shrimp, consider pairing it with a few complementary sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. The crisp and tangy flavors of coleslaw balance the shrimp's spice, especially when made with a vinegar-based dressing for a lighter touch.
Sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting contrast with their soft texture, making them a delightful companion to the crispy shrimp.
Additionally, cilantro lime rice brings a refreshing element to the meal, with the lime's brightness perfectly complementing the shrimp's zesty spices. Together, these pairings ensure a flavorful and well-rounded dining experience that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
-
Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water. This removes any impurities. Dry them gently with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the batter.
Step 2: Make the Buttermilk Mixture
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic paste, and lemon juice. This will be your marinade and helps to flavor the shrimp deeply. Add in the shrimp, making sure every piece is well coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
-
In another bowl, mix the self-rising flour with ground mustard, cracked pepper, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, chili powder, kosher salt, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and onion powder. This mixture will be the dry breading for your shrimp.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
-
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F for frying. You can use a thermometer for precision. If you don't have one, drop a small piece of batter into the oil – it should bubble immediately.
Step 5: Batter and Fry the Shrimp
-
Take the marinated shrimp from the buttermilk mixture and gently coat each piece in the flour mixture. Tap off any excess and place the shrimp carefully in the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid crowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
-
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil. Let them drain on paper towels. Serve hot, accompanied by ranch dressing and sliced cherry peppers on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 390kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13.4g21%
- Saturated Fat 7.8g39%
- Cholesterol 24mg8%
- Sodium 832mg35%
- Total Carbohydrate 66g22%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 43g
- Protein 4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Oil Temperature: Always check the oil temperature before frying. Too hot can burn the shrimp; too cool can lead to greasy results.
- Batch Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches for the best texture.
- Extra Crunch: For added crunch, double-dip the shrimp. After coating them once, dip them back into the buttermilk and coat again in the flour mixture.
- Flavored Oil: Add a couple of sprigs of thyme or rosemary to the oil while it heats. This infuses your shrimp with a subtle herbaceous flavor.
- Cooling Time: Let fried shrimp sit for a few minutes post-frying to maintain their crispiness.
