Fried Shrimp

Fried Shrimp with Lemon – a quick and savory delicacy for any occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

If you are looking for a quick and delicious recipe, fried shrimp is the perfect choice! This simple yet flavorful recipe will transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Shrimp are not only tasty but also an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, offering significant nutritional benefits. Plus, preparing them is a true pleasure!

The history of shrimp is fascinating, with a millennia-old tradition in various cultures. They have been consumed over time for their refined taste and versatility in dishes. Shrimp can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even in salads, and the combination with lemon gives them a fresh and invigorating taste.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg shrimp (preferably fresh or frozen)
- 100 g white flour
- Salt (to taste)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 lemon (for serving)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cleaning the shrimp: The first step is to ensure you have good quality shrimp. If you bought fresh shrimp, wash them well under cold running water. Remove the shell and, with a sharp knife, cut along the back of the shrimp to remove the dark line known as the intestine. This can be bitter, so it’s important to remove it for a perfect taste.

2. Salting and soaking: After cleaning the shrimp, place them in a bowl of cold water and add coarse salt. Let them soak for 10 minutes. This step will not only season them but also help eliminate impurities. After 10 minutes, drain the shrimp and place them on a kitchen towel to dry well.

3. Preparing for frying: In a deep plate, mix the flour with a little salt. Dredge each shrimp in the flour, ensuring they are well coated. This crust will help achieve a crispy and delicious texture.

4. Frying: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot (you can check this by adding a small drop of water; if it sizzles, it’s ready), place the shrimp in the pan. Fry them quickly, about one minute on each side, until they turn golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even frying.

5. Draining the oil: Once the shrimp are ready, remove them to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb excess oil. You can sprinkle a little salt if needed to enhance the flavor.

6. Serving: Fried shrimp are best served hot, drizzled with fresh lemon juice. This will enhance their flavors and add a note of freshness.

Serving suggestions and accompaniments:
For a complete meal, you can serve fried shrimp alongside a fresh salad with seasonal vegetables and a light dressing. A crispy baguette or vegetable rice are also excellent options. If you want to add more flavor, you can try a garlic mayonnaise or a yogurt sauce with dill.

Tips and variations:
- Spiced shrimp: Before dredging in flour, you can add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Herb shrimp: Another interesting option is to add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the flour for a burst of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to fully thaw and dry them well before frying.
- How long does it take to fry shrimp? Generally, shrimp fry quickly, about 1-2 minutes on each side, depending on their size.
- How can I store leftovers? If you have leftover fried shrimp, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan to bring them back to life.

Nutritional benefits:
Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, having a low calorie content (about 85 calories per 100 g). They also contain zinc, which is important for the immune system, and selenium, a powerful antioxidant.

So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron and enjoy this simple and delicious recipe for fried shrimp with lemon. Bon appétit!