Ingredients

• Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Yellow mustard: 2 tablespoons
• Eggs: 2 large eggs
• Slap Ya Mama Cajun Fish Fry mix: 1 cup
• Oil for frying: Enough for deep frying

Optional:

• Dipping sauces: Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or remoulade
• Lemon wedges: For serving

Equipment:

• Deep fryer or large skillet
• Cooling rack or paper towels

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Peel and devein the shrimp: If your shrimp haven’t been peeled or deveined, remove the shells and carefully devein each shrimp, ensuring they are clean and ready for coating. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to help the coating adhere better.

Step 2: Make the Mustard and Egg Mixture

1. Combine mustard and eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard and 2 large eggs until they are well combined. The mustard will add a tangy flavor that complements the spicy Cajun seasoning.
2. Coat the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the mustard and egg mixture. Stir to make sure each shrimp is fully coated with the mixture. This will help the Cajun fish fry mix stick to the shrimp during frying.

Step 3: Prepare the Fish Fry Mix

1. Set up the dredging station: In a separate bowl, pour 1 cup of Slap Ya Mama Cajun Fish Fry mix. This is where the shrimp will get their flavorful and crispy coating.
2. Dredge the shrimp: Take each shrimp from the mustard and egg mixture and dredge it in the Cajun Fish Fry mix, making sure it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess mix before frying.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat the oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to submerge the shrimp completely, so ensure the oil is at least 2-3 inches deep in the skillet or fryer.
2. Fry in batches: Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain excess oil: Once fried, use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the shrimp from the oil. Place them on a cooling rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve hot: Arrange the crispy Cajun fried shrimp on a platter and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Lemon wedges can be added for an extra burst of freshness.
2. Enjoy: These shrimp are perfect for sharing, so dig in and enjoy the flavorful, crunchy goodness!

Cooking Tips

• Choose the right shrimp: Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe. If you use smaller shrimp, adjust the frying time as they will cook faster.
• Oil temperature is key: Make sure the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cold, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the shrimp may burn before fully cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly. Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, leading to soggy shrimp.
• Make it spicier: If you prefer a spicier version, sprinkle extra Cajun seasoning on the shrimp after frying, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mustard and egg mixture.
• Alternative cooking method: If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the shrimp in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 210 mg
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Iron: 2 mg
• Calcium: 100 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another type of fish fry mix?
   • Yes, you can use any seasoned fish fry mix if you can’t find the Slap Ya Mama Cajun Fish Fry mix. However, the Cajun mix adds a unique flavor with its blend of spices, so if you use another type, consider adding extra Cajun seasoning or spices to the mix.
2. Can I make these shrimp gluten-free?
   • Yes! Look for a gluten-free fish fry mix or make your own using gluten-free flour and Cajun spices. Cornmeal is also a great gluten-free option for breading.
3. What type of oil is best for frying?
   • A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, is best for frying shrimp. These oils won’t impart any strong flavors and can handle the high heat required for frying.
4. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   • Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before dredging them in the coating. Excess moisture from frozen shrimp can cause the coating to become soggy.
5. Can I air-fry the shrimp instead of deep-frying?
   • Yes, air-frying is a great alternative! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer, and air-fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as deep-fried shrimp, but they’ll still have great texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Cajun Fried Shrimp is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering. The crispy coating, combined with the spicy and tangy mustard mixture, makes these shrimp stand out as a delicious appetizer or main course. The cooking process is simple, and in just 20 minutes, you can enjoy perfectly fried shrimp with a side of dipping sauce.

Whether you’re serving these as part of a seafood platter, with fries, or on their own as a snack, Cajun Fried Shrimp will satisfy any craving for a crunchy, savory treat. The flexibility of this recipe also allows for creative variations—try different dips, add extra spices, or pair them with a refreshing salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy the taste of the South with every bite!