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.

Deep South Cornmeal Fried Shrimp with Lemon Cream Gravy: Ultimate 5-Step Gulf Recipe

Name: Deep South Cornmeal Fried Shrimp with Creamy Lemon Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound medium shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined; 2 cups stone-ground yellow cornmeal; 3 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup heavy cream; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; Vegetable oil for frying; Fresh parsley for garnish; Lemon wedges for serving

Description

Authentic Deep South cornmeal fried shrimp with creamy lemon gravy brings Gulf Coast flavors to your table. This crispy Southern seafood recipe features perfectly seasoned shrimp in a golden cornmeal coating paired with tangy lemon cream sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound medium shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined

2 cups stone-ground yellow cornmeal

3 large eggs, beaten

1 cup heavy cream

¼ cup fresh lemon juice

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

Vegetable oil for frying

Fresh parsley for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper

2. Set up breading station with beaten eggs in one dish and seasoned cornmeal mixture in another

3. Heat oil to 350°F using a deep-fry thermometer

4. Dip each shrimp in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in seasoned cornmeal mixture

5. Fry shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy

6. For lemon cream gravy, melt butter in pan and whisk in flour to create smooth roux

7. Gradually add heavy cream and lemon juice, whisking constantly until thickened

8. Season gravy with salt and pepper to taste

9. Serve immediately with warm lemon cream gravy and fresh lemon wedges

Notes

Use fresh Gulf shrimp for authentic flavor

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for best results

Don’t overcrowd the fryer – work in small batches

Store leftovers refrigerated up to 2 days

Reheat in 375°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 oz
Calories: 385
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 185mg