Perfect Vegan Fried Shrimp Recipe

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It was a rainy Saturday afternoon when Lauren and Cassidy found themselves reminiscing about their favorite coastal vacations. The taste of crispy fried shrimp from seaside shacks lingered in their memories. Determined to recreate that experience, they decided to try making vegan fried shrimp at home. With a bit of experimentation and laughter in the kitchen, they crafted a plant-based version that brought back those cherished memories.

Since then, this vegan fried shrimp has become a staple in their household. Lauren loves the crunchy texture, while Cassidy appreciates the flavorful seasoning. Whether it's for a cozy dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish never fails to delight.

Ingredients

Vegan shrimp 2 cups
Vegan butter 1 tablespoon
Plant-based milk (soy or oat) ½ cup
Apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour ¼ cup
Cornstarch 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Panko breadcrumbs 1 cup
Cajun seasoning (e.g., Tony Chachere’s or Old Bay) ½ teaspoon
Oil for deep frying

Instructions

Prepare the shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter.
Add the vegan shrimp and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they are lightly browned.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the batter

Set up three bowls.
In the first bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar.
Stir and let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles and thickens.
In the second bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Cajun seasoning.

Coat the shrimp

Dip each sautéed shrimp into the milk mixture, ensuring it's well-coated.
Then, dredge it in the flour mixture, followed by a quick dip back into the milk mixture.
Finally, coat it thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
Repeat this process for all shrimp.

Fry the shrimp

In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 370°F (188°C).
Carefully add a few shrimp at a time, frying them for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Use tongs to turn them if necessary.
Once cooked, remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve

Serve the vegan fried shrimp hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

This vegan fried shrimp recipe brings a delightful crunch and savory flavor that satisfies seafood cravings without compromising on plant-based principles. The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and tender vegan shrimp creates a dish that's both nostalgic and innovative.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a comfort meal, this recipe is sure to impress. It's a testament to how plant-based cooking can recreate beloved classics with compassion and creativity.