Crispy Cajun Shrimp Bites
Indulge in the flavor-packed delight of Crispy Cajun Shrimp Bites! This recipe combines succulent small shrimp with a perfectly seasoned batter, featuring a blend of cayenne, garlic, and thyme. Each bite is bursting with zesty Cajun flavor, making these shrimp an irresistible appetizer or main course. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply a special treat for yourself, serve these crunchy morsels hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.
8
Servings
200
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
small shrimp
2 lbs (rinsed and drained)
eggs
2 (whisked)
dry white wine
1 cup (none)
fine cornmeal
1/2 cup (none)
all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (none)
fresh chives
1 tablespoon (chopped)
garlic
1 clove (minced)
thyme
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
oil
for deep frying (none)
Instructions
1
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to remove any impurities, then drain them well. Place the shrimp in a cool area while you prepare the batter.
2
In a small bowl, use a fork to whisk together the eggs and dry white wine. Once blended, set this mixture aside in a cool place to maintain freshness.
3
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the fine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, fresh chives, minced garlic, thyme, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
4
Gradually add the egg and wine mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to create a smooth and even batter. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest for about 1 hour at room temperature to enhance the flavors.
5
In a large frying pan or deep-fryer, heat about 2 to 3 inches of oil to a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure crispy shrimp.
6
Carefully dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing excess batter to drip off, and fry them in small batches in the hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn the shrimp occasionally to ensure they are cooked evenly and turn a lovely golden brown.
7
Once cooked, remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve these delicious shrimp bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce to enjoy the ultimate flavor experience.
Nutrition Information
10
Fat
16
Carbs
11.25
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Cajun Shrimp Bites?
Crispy Cajun Shrimp Bites are an appetizer or main course consisting of small shrimp dipped in a seasoned batter of cornmeal, flour, wine, and Cajun spices, then deep-fried until golden.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
What size shrimp should I use for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 pounds of small shrimp.
How many calories are in a serving of Cajun Shrimp Bites?
There are approximately 200 calories per serving.
What gives these shrimp their Cajun flavor?
The Cajun flavor comes from a blend of cayenne pepper, minced garlic, dried thyme, and black pepper.
Is there alcohol in the shrimp batter?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 cup of dry white wine to help create the batter.
How long should the batter rest before frying?
The batter should rest covered at room temperature for approximately 1 hour to enhance the flavors.
What is the recommended temperature for the frying oil?
The oil should be heated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the shrimp bites are crispy.
How long do the shrimp need to fry?
Shrimp should be fried in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden brown.
What type of flour and cornmeal are needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of fine cornmeal.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains 11.25 grams of protein.
Are these shrimp bites spicy?
They have a zesty kick due to the 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, though the spice level is moderate.
What herbs are included in the batter?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
How should the shrimp be prepared before battering?
The shrimp should be rinsed under cold water and drained well before being kept in a cool area.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
Each serving contains 16 grams of carbohydrates.
Should I use a deep-fryer or a pan?
Either a large frying pan or a deep-fryer can be used, as long as you have 2 to 3 inches of oil.
How do I remove excess oil from the shrimp?
Once removed from the oil with a slotted spoon, place the shrimp on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Can I serve these with a sauce?
Yes, it is recommended to serve these hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
How many eggs are required for the batter?
The recipe requires 2 whisked eggs.
What is the total number of ingredients used?
There are 12 ingredients in this recipe including the oil for frying.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for snacks or party food.
What occasions are these shrimp bites best for?
They are perfect for gatherings, game days, parties, or as a special treat.
What is the best way to mix the batter?
Whisk the wet ingredients first, then gradually add them to the dry ingredients while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth batter.
Does the recipe contain salt?
Yes, it includes 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Can I use large shrimp instead of small?
While small shrimp are specified for 'bites', you can use larger shrimp, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Are there any dietary fiber or sugar details?
The current nutritional data does not list specific values for fiber or sugar.
What should the consistency of the batter be?
The batter should be smooth and even, allowing excess to drip off easily before frying.
How do I ensure the shrimp are cooked evenly?
Turn the shrimp occasionally while they are in the hot oil to ensure even browning and cooking.
Is fresh garlic required?
The recipe calls for 1 clove of minced garlic for the best flavor.