Deep South Cornmeal Fried Shrimp with Creamy Lemon Gravy Recipe

Southern seafood recipes hold a special place in my heart. The Deep South Cornmeal Fried Shrimp with Lemon Cream Gravy is a highlight of coastal comfort cooking. It turns simple ingredients into a delicious dish that shows the true taste of Southern cuisine. I found this recipe on a Southern cooking website that loves real regional flavors.

I love sharing Southern cooking recipes that bring people together. The mix of crispy, seasoned shrimp and tangy lemon cream gravy is a true masterpiece. It’s both versatile and hard to resist.

Key Takeaways

• Authentic Southern seafood recipe with crispy cornmeal coating
• Quick and easy preparation suitable for appetizers or main courses
• Perfectly balanced flavors of crispy shrimp and creamy lemon sauce
• Represents the rich culinary tradition of the Deep South
• Adaptable recipe for home cooks of all skill levels

Key Ingredients for the Dish

To make a true Southern fried seafood dish, you need the right ingredients. These should bring the Gulf Coast’s flavors to your table. I focus on quality and precision in every part of the recipe.

Shrimp Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right shrimp is key for a true Gulf Coast taste. I suggest using fresh, wild-caught Gulf shrimp for the best flavor. Here’s what to look for:

• Size: Medium to large shrimp (16-20 count)
• Freshness: Firm texture with a bright, clean smell
• Cleaning: Thoroughly peeled and deveined

Choosing the Right Cornmeal

The secret to a crispy coating is the right cornmeal. Stone-ground yellow cornmeal is the best for Southern fried seafood.

Cornmeal Type	Texture	Flavor Profile
Stone-ground Yellow	Coarse and Crispy	Rich, Authentic Southern
Fine White Cornmeal	Smooth	Mild, Delicate

Essential Spices and Seasonings

My homemade lemon cream sauce and breading need the right seasonings. Here’s what I use:

1. Kosher salt
2. Fresh ground black pepper
3. Garlic powder
4. Cayenne pepper
5. Paprika

These ingredients make a delicious Southern seafood dish. They bring the Gulf Coast’s flavors right to your plate.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making the perfect cornmeal battered shrimp needs care and love. I’ll show you how to turn simple ingredients into a tasty Southern dish. It’s sure to make your taste buds happy.

Preparing the Lemon Cream Gravy

For a great creamy shrimp gravy, start with careful steps. First, melt butter in a pan and mix in flour for a smooth roux. Then, add heavy cream, lemon juice, and a bit of salt slowly. Keep stirring until it’s smooth and sticks well to the shrimp.

Breading and Frying the Shrimp

How you bread the shrimp is key. Here’s what to do:

• Pat shrimp dry with paper towels
• Prepare two dishes: one with eggs, another with seasoned cornmeal
• Dip each shrimp in egg, then coat in cornmeal
• Shake off extra breading for a good coat

Frying needs the right temperature. Heat oil to 350°F and fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes. They should be golden and crispy.

Plating and Serving Suggestions

How you present the dish makes a big difference. Serve the crispy shrimp on fresh greens with lemon cream gravy. Add parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, appealing look.

Cooking Stage	Temperature	Time
Oil Heating	350°F	Pre-heating
Shrimp Frying	350°F	2-3 minutes

Tips for Perfecting Your Recipe

Mastering Southern seafood recipes needs focus and a love for Gulf Coast cuisine. I’ve found that making great Louisiana-style shrimp dishes is all about the details. Getting that perfect crispy outside while keeping the shrimp tender inside takes time and some tricks.

Temperature control is key when cooking this Southern classic. Use a deep-fry thermometer to keep your oil at 350 degrees. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding and keep the oil temperature steady. This way, each batch can crisp up nicely without steaming.

Variations to Try

Trying different seasonings can make your dish stand out. I like adding Cajun spice or using cornmeal mixed with ground pecans for extra crunch. Some people also add smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick that’s true to Gulf Coast flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is using shrimp that are too big or too small. Medium-sized shrimp are best for even cooking and the right amount of breading. Always dry your shrimp well before breading to get a crispy, golden crust.

Storage and Reheating Tips

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, bake at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes to get crispy again. Don’t microwave, as it will make the breading soggy and ruin the shrimp’s texture.

Meal Pairing Recommendations

I recommend serving your crispy shrimp with Southern sides like creamy coleslaw, hush puppies, or remoulade sauce. A crisp white wine or a cold beer complements these dishes perfectly, making your meal a true Gulf Coast experience.

FAQ

What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

I suggest using fresh Gulf shrimp for the best Southern taste. Choose large or jumbo shrimp. Make sure they’re cleaned and deveined before cooking. Wild-caught Gulf shrimp offer the most traditional flavor for this Deep South dish.

Can I substitute the cornmeal with another coating?

While cornmeal is traditional, you can try panko breadcrumbs or flour and cornmeal mix. But cornmeal is key for that authentic crispy texture and Southern fried shrimp taste.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming greasy when frying?

Keep the oil temperature between 350-375°F. Use a thermometer to check the heat. Fry in small batches and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.

How long can I store leftover fried shrimp?

Refrigerate leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Is this recipe spicy?

The basic recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add heat. Mix in Cajun or Creole seasoning into the cornmeal. Use cayenne pepper, hot paprika, or your favorite Southern spice blend.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Classic Southern sides like coleslaw, hush puppies, mac and cheese, or collard greens go great with fried shrimp. A tangy remoulade or lemon wedges can also add to the flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free cornmeal and replace wheat flour with gluten-free options like rice flour or cornstarch. Make sure all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free to keep the recipe true.

What type of oil is best for frying?

I recommend peanut oil or vegetable oil with a high smoke point. These oils handle high temperatures well and won’t overpower the shrimp’s taste.

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