Go Back
Beer Batter Recipe Shrimp

Beer Batter Recipe Shrimp - Freshly Ingredients

Ah, beer batter shrimp. If there's ever been a dish that speaks to the heart of casual dining, this is it! Growing up, the smell of shrimp frying in the kitchen would send us kids scrambling to the dining room. It meant one thing: mom was at it again with her famous recipe.
 The golden crunch, coupled with a bite of juicy shrimp, always left us hoping for more.
You might think, “What’s the big deal?” Well, let me tell you—this recipe isn’t just your run-of-the-mill fried shrimp. It's a crunchy delight that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. And, the best part? 
It’s incredibly easy to make! I've perfected this recipe over the years, and today, I’ll share not only the process but also insights that will make your shrimp an unforgettable dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 312
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 quart of high-smoke-point canola or vegetable oil for deep frying
  • 1 pound jumbo shrimp, deveined and deshelled
  • 1 cup fine-milled all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup silky cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 large farm-fresh egg
  • 1 bottle of chilled golden lager 12-ounce
  • Lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy finish

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
  1. Start with fresh, peeled shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying them ensures the batter sticks and helps achieve a crispy finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Oil
  1. In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, pour in the canola or vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F. A thermometer is your best friend here. If you drop a bit of batter into the oil and it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
Step 3: Make the Batter
  1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, Creole seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly mix in the beer until fully combined. Pour the egg and beer mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 4: Dip the Shrimp
  1. Once your oil is hot, take each shrimp and dip it into the batter, covering it completely. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing it gently in the oil.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
  1. Fry the shrimp in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the temperature of the oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are a beautiful golden brown and float to the top.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
  1. Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process until all shrimp are fried. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp makes a notable difference. If you're using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and dried.
  • Chill Your Beer: Cold lager allows the batter to bubble when frying, giving a better crunch.
  • Add Depth with Spices: Don’t shy away from adding your twist. Try including cayenne pepper for heat or Old Bay seasoning for a different flavor profile.
  • Keep It Moving: When frying, gently stir the shrimp for even cooking. This prevents clumping and ensures that every piece gets crispy.
  • Experiment with Dips: A squeeze of fresh lemon is great, but don’t hesitate to explore aiolis or spicy mayo to contrast the dish's flavors.