Cajun Fried Shrimp

Ingredients:

For the Crunchy Shrimp:

• 12 large raw prawns, peeled with tails left on
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun spice
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Cajun Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

Instructions:

Cajun Sauce:

1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, and Cajun seasoning. Whisk together until well blended. Set aside while preparing the shrimp.

Cajun Crunchy Shrimp:

1. In a bowl, mix together flour, salt, lemon zest, and Cajun seasoning.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg with milk.
3. Place the panko breadcrumbs on a plate.
4. Set up a breading station with the flour mixture, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs in a line.
5. Working with one shrimp at a time, dredge it in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Place the coated shrimp on a clean plate.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a cast-iron skillet until it reaches a depth of about an inch. Test the oil by sprinkling a few breadcrumbs into it – it should sizzle.
7. Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil using tongs, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
8. Fry the shrimp for about 90 seconds on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Remove the shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels.
10. Serve the Cajun fried shrimp hot with the prepared Cajun sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Cajun fried shrimp with a flavorful dipping sauce!