- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Chop the peeled and deveined shrimp into small pieces. Set aside.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk and water. Mix well.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.
- Fold in the chopped shrimp, fresh parsley, and green onions until well combined.
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep frying pan to a depth of about 1 inch (2.5 cm). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of batter into it; the batter should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop portions of the shrimp batter into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
- Fry the fritters for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the shrimp fritters hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If the oil is too hot, the fritters will burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. If it’s too cool, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Uniform Size: Try to make each fritter the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and herbs for the best flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Fritters: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the batter for a spicier kick.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Herb Substitutes: Substitute parsley with cilantro or dill for a different herbaceous note.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces such as aioli, spicy mayo, or cocktail sauce.
- Main Course: Pair with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Snack: Enjoy as a savory snack with a cold beverage.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as the fritters may become soggy.
These Shrimp Fritters by Recettes-Variées are sure to be a hit with their crispy exterior and flavorful shrimp filling. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!