Today’s Spotlight is on French Fried Shrimp.

French fried shrimp is shrimp that’s been deep-fried in fat. It’s also known as battered shrimp or tempura shrimp. Shrimp that has been grilled, poached, steamed, or baked are often a healthier choice. Wild-caught shrimp are generally considered the tastiest and healthiest. They’re more expensive than farmed shrimp because they’re sustainable and harder to catch.

Here are some places to find good shrimp:

• Gulf of Mexico: The nutrient-rich waters of the Gulf of Mexico give shrimp a unique flavor profile.
• Atlantic coast: The Atlantic coast produces some of the tastiest and cleanest shrimp in the world.
• Ecuador: Ecuador produces some of the best head-on shrimp in the world.
• Indonesia: Indonesia has a vast coastline that’s ideal for growing shrimp.
• Gambas de Palamós: These large, pearly red shrimp live in the Mediterranean on the Palamós coast in Catalunya. They have a delicate and sweet, almost vanilla, taste.

History

The origins of French-fried shrimp are unconfirmed, but it’s believed to have been introduced to America in the 20th century after World War II. Some say that the Portuguese in the 16th century may have been the first cooks to cover shrimp in batter and then deep fry them.

Fried shrimp may have first appeared on menus in the early 20th century. However, the breaded version didn’t become popular until after World War II. Pre-cooked frozen shrimp, plain or breaded, came on the market after the war. America’s love affair with shrimp began in 1917 when harvesting began on a large scale. Shrimp cocktail became a staple of American dining.

In Japan, fried shrimp is known as “Ebi fry”. It’s often included in Japanese bento boxes, donburi, and sushi.

 

Here’s a recipe for French fried shrimp:

1. Peel the shrimp, leaving the last section of shell and tail intact.
2. Butterfly the shrimp by cutting along the outside curve almost through.
3. Remove the vein.
4. Flatten the shrimp and set aside.
5. Combine flour, sugar, salt, egg, water, and 2 tablespoons of oil.
6. Beat until smooth.
7. Dip the shrimp into the batter.
8. Fry in deep hot oil until golden.

 

Here are some fun facts about shrimp:

• Shrimp are full of selenium, which is believed to prevent tumor growth and lower the risks of many cancers.
• Shrimp averages only 7 calories a piece.
• Shrimp have been around for millions of years and can be found in nearly every body of water all over the world.
• National Shrimp Day is celebrated on May 10.

Here are some fun facts about fried shrimp:

• Deep-frying food dates back to the ancient Egyptians.
• Ancient Greeks and Romans enjoyed shrimp.
• The American restaurant chain Red Lobster introduced a menu item called “popcorn shrimp” in 1974.
• Fried shrimp is not as healthy a pick as grilled because it contains excess calories and fat.

 

Consumption

According to Tastewise, fried shrimp is consumed 1.58 times per year on average. The market adoption for fried shrimp in restaurants is 11.33%, with an average price of $15.66. Shrimp is the most popular seafood in the United States. In 2021, Americans consumed an average of 5.9 pounds of shrimp per person, which was a 0.90-pound increase from 2020.

 

Celebrating French Fried Shrimp

National French Fried Shrimp Day is a food holiday celebrated on December 21st in the United States. It’s a day to enjoy and celebrate the delicious dish of crispy and flavorful deep-fried shrimp. Shrimp is a favorite seafood in the United States. It consumes more than any other seafood. The dish originated in Japan and is also known as tempura shrimp.

Let us know in the comments who makes your favorite French-Fried Shrimp.