Crispy Fried Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Crispy Fried Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 cup cold sparkling water (for extra crispiness)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

For Lemon Garlic Aioli:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they are fully dry to ensure they get crispy when fried.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
   • Slowly add the cold sparkling water to the flour mixture while whisking until you get a batter that’s slightly thick but still runny enough to coat the shrimp. If needed, add more sparkling water.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to cover the shrimp.
4. Fry the Shrimp:
   • Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Carefully lower the shrimp into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Prepare Lemon Garlic Aioli:
   • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle fried shrimp with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges and the lemon garlic aioli on the side.