We’ve always been captivated by the Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe a timeless favorite from a legendary Texas seafood spot. This dish captures the essence of Gulf Coast flavors with its crispy golden perfection that’s made it a crowd-pleaser for generations.
We’re thrilled to bring this easy-to-follow version to your kitchen offering that authentic crunch and zest without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a weeknight meal it’s sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
In our Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that capture the authentic Gulf Coast flavors and ensure a crispy, golden finish every time. Below, we list them in the order they are prepared and used, with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless home cooking.
- Shrimp: 1 pound of fresh large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – opt for wild-caught for the best texture and taste.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup – sifted to remove lumps, serving as the base for our light, crunchy coating.
- Cornmeal: ½ cup – finely ground for added crispiness and a subtle earthy flavor that enhances the seafood’s natural sweetness.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs (beaten) – used to create a sticky binder that helps the breading adhere perfectly.
- Milk: ½ cup whole milk – mixed with the eggs for a smooth batter that locks in moisture.
- Seasonings: 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – combined for a bold, spicy kick that echoes the original restaurant’s signature blend.
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground to season the shrimp before coating.
- Vegetable oil: 4 cups for frying – choose a high-smoke-point oil to achieve that irresistible golden-brown exterior without overpowering the shrimp’s delicate flavor.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe with precision and achieve that signature crispy Gulf Coast texture, we rely on essential tools that ensure safety, efficiency, and professional results. Let’s break down the key items we’ll use, organized by their role in the process.
Essential Frying Tools
- Deep fryer or large cast-iron skillet: This is crucial for maintaining even heat and oil temperature, allowing the shrimp to develop a golden, crunchy exterior without sogginess. We recommend a skillet with high sides to minimize oil splatter during frying.
- Cooking thermometer: For monitoring oil at the ideal 350-375°F, which guarantees a perfectly fried coating. Accurate temperature control is key to replicating the restaurant-quality crispness.
Preparation and Mixing Essentials
- Large mixing bowls (at least two): One for whisking eggs and milk, and another for dredging the shrimp in our flour and cornmeal blend. Opt for sturdy, non-slip bowls to handle the wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk or fork: Ideal for blending eggs and milk into a uniform batter, ensuring every shrimp gets an even, flavorful coating.
Serving and Safety Gear
- Tongs or slotted spoon: These help us safely flip and remove the shrimp from hot oil, preserving their delicate shape and preventing breakage.
- Paper towel-lined plate or wire rack: For draining excess oil post-frying, which keeps the shrimp light and not greasy—enhancing the bold, spicy kick from our seasonings.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision tools for accurately measuring ingredients like flour and cornmeal, as outlined in the previous section, to avoid inconsistencies in texture.
By gathering these tools, we set ourselves up for a seamless cooking experience that brings the authentic flavors of Kings Inn right to our kitchen.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through creating the crispy, flavorful Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe with ease and precision.
Prep
Before frying, we prepare the shrimp and batter to ensure a light, crunchy coating that captures the authentic Gulf Coast essence.
- Start with the shrimp: Rinse 1 pound of large wild-caught shrimp under cold water then pat them dry with paper towels. Peel and devein each shrimp leaving the tails intact for easy handling and a classic presentation.
- Prepare the dry mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornmeal, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika. This blend forms the base of our signature crispy coating that gives the Kings Inn Fried Shrimp its bold texture.
- Whisk the wet mixture: In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs with ½ cup milk until fully incorporated. This creates a smooth batter that helps the dry mixture adhere perfectly to the shrimp for an even, golden finish.
- Coat the shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the wet mixture ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the dry mixture. Shake off any excess to avoid a heavy coating and place the prepared shrimp on a plate. We recommend doing this in batches to maintain efficiency.
Cook
With the shrimp prepped, we move to frying for that irresistible crispy texture that defines the Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe.
- Heat the oil: Fill a deep fryer or large cast-iron skillet with 2-3 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F using a cooking thermometer. Maintaining this exact temperature ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
- Fry in batches: Carefully add 6-8 shrimp to the hot oil using tongs. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a deep golden brown. The sizzle and aroma will signal a perfectly crispy exterior with juicy, tender shrimp inside.
| Batch Size | Frying Time per Side | Oil Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 shrimp | 2-3 minutes | 350°F |
- Drain and rest: Remove the fried shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for 1-2 minutes so the coating stays crisp without becoming greasy.
Serve
Once cooked, we present the Kings Inn Fried Shrimp to highlight its vibrant flavors and textures for an enjoyable meal.
- Plate the shrimp: Arrange the fried shrimp on a serving platter garnished with fresh lemon wedges. The tangy citrus complements the spicy kick and crispy bite.
- Add sides: Serve immediately with classic accompaniments like tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a simple coleslaw to enhance the Gulf Coast vibe. We suggest portions of 4-6 shrimp per person for a satisfying dish that pairs well with rice or fries.
- Enjoy the senses: Savor the crunchy exterior and succulent interior of each shrimp, allowing the bold seasonings to deliver that signature Kings Inn taste right at your table.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe and fit it into busy schedules, we can prepare key elements ahead while preserving that signature crispy texture and bold Gulf Coast flavors. This approach ensures the shrimp remain succulent and ready for a quick fry when needed.
Preparing the Shrimp in Advance
We recommend prepping the shrimp up to 24 hours before frying to save time. Start by rinsing 1 pound of large wild-caught shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact for easy handling. Arrange the prepared shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This step keeps the shrimp fresh and firm, preventing any loss of texture that could affect the final crunch.
Making the Batter Mixtures Ahead
Our dry and wet mixtures can be assembled in advance to simplify the coating process. For the dry mixture, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornmeal, and a blend of seasonings like 1 teaspoon paprika and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper in a large mixing bowl. Transfer this to an airtight container and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For the wet mixture, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup milk in a separate bowl, then pour it into a sealed jar or container. Refrigerate the wet mixture for up to 1 day. When you’re ready to fry, simply give it a quick stir to recombine—this ensures a smooth, even coating that locks in those spicy flavors.
Frying and Storing for Later
If we want to fry the shrimp ahead, heat the oil to 350°F as outlined in our cooking instructions and fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain the fried shrimp on a wire rack to remove excess oil, then let them cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes. This method revives the crispiness without sogginess, maintaining the light, crunchy exterior and juicy interior that defines our Kings Inn favorite. Always reheat in small batches to preserve quality.
Conclusion
We’ve shared our take on the Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe to bring that authentic Gulf Coast crunch straight to your kitchen. It’s a simple way to impress family and friends with bold flavors that never disappoint.
As we wrap up our guide you’ll find this recipe becomes a go-to favorite adding a touch of seaside magic to any meal. Dive in and enjoy the crispy perfection we’ve crafted for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe?
The Kings Inn Fried Shrimp Recipe is a popular dish inspired by a famous Texas seafood restaurant, featuring fresh Gulf Coast flavors with a crispy texture. This easy-to-follow version lets you recreate it at home using wild-caught shrimp, a seasoned batter, and simple frying techniques, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
What ingredients are needed for Kings Inn Fried Shrimp?
You’ll need fresh large wild-caught shrimp, all-purpose flour, cornmeal, eggs, milk, and a blend of spices for a bold kick. Focus on precise measurements to achieve a light, crunchy coating. These high-quality ingredients ensure authentic flavors and a succulent interior.
What tools are required to make this fried shrimp recipe?
Essential tools include a deep fryer or large cast-iron skillet, a cooking thermometer for accurate oil temperature, large mixing bowls, tongs or a slotted spoon for handling, and paper towels or a wire rack for draining. These items help ensure safe, seamless preparation and a crispy finish.
How do I prepare the shrimp for frying?
Start by rinsing and drying the shrimp, then peel and devein them while keeping tails intact. Create a dry mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices, and a wet mixture of eggs and milk. Coat the shrimp in the wet mixture, then dredge in the dry mixture for an even, crunchy batter.
What is the best way to fry the shrimp?
Heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or skillet. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Use tongs for safe handling, and drain on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil, preserving crispiness and enhancing the signature Gulf Coast texture.
Can I prepare Kings Inn Fried Shrimp in advance?
Yes, prep shrimp up to 24 hours ahead by rinsing, peeling, and refrigerating them. Make the dry and wet mixtures in advance and store them. If frying early, keep in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness, making it convenient for busy schedules.
How should I serve the fried shrimp?
Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges and sides like tartar sauce or coleslaw. This enhances the crunchy exterior and juicy interior, capturing the authentic Kings Inn taste. It’s ideal for casual meals or parties, offering a delicious, restaurant-quality experience at home.