How To Cook Butterfly Shrimp

How To Cook Butterfly Shrimp: A Delicious Seafood Treat

Looking for a delightful seafood dish that will impress your family and friends at your next gathering? Look no further than butterfly shrimp! This delectable treat is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of preparing and cooking butterfly shrimp to perfection.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 pound of fresh shrimp
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Clean the shrimp by removing the shells and deveining them. Leave the tails intact for an elegant presentation.
2. Gently butterfly the shrimp by slicing along the back, stopping just before reaching the tail. The shrimp should open up like a butterfly.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
4. Dip each butterfly shrimp into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Place the shrimp into the flour mixture and coat them evenly on both sides. Shake off any excess flour.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is filled with enough oil to fully submerge the shrimp.
7. Carefully place the butterfly shrimp into the hot oil, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
8. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
9. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
10. Repeat the frying process until all the butterfly shrimp are cooked.

Serving Suggestions:

Now that your beautifully crispy butterfly shrimp are ready, it’s time to serve them up! Here are some suggestions to make your dish even more enjoyable:

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp to enhance their flavor.
• Serve the shrimp as a main course alongside a side salad or steamed vegetables.
• Create a delicious shrimp po’boy by placing the butterfly shrimp on a crusty baguette with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce.
• Dip the shrimp in tangy cocktail sauce or a zesty aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
• Add the shrimp to a bed of rice or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.

There you have it – a simple and scrumptious recipe for cooking butterfly shrimp. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to treat yourself to a delightful seafood dish, this recipe is a winner. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some shrimp, and get ready to impress your taste buds!