Buffalo Shrimp Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Creole-style seasoning
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails attached
• 4 cups oil for frying

Buffalo Sauce:

• 6 ounces hot pepper sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Directions

Step 1: In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the flour, Creole-style seasoning, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and black pepper. Seal the bag and shake to mix the ingredients well.

Step 2: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and then place them into the flour mixture inside the bag. Seal the bag again and shake thoroughly until the shrimp are evenly coated with the flour mixture.

Step 3: Spread the coated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 to 20 minutes to allow the coating to set. Set aside the flour mixture in the bag for later use.

Step 4: Meanwhile, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper until smooth and well combined. Set the sauce aside.

Step 5: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350F (175C). Once the oil is hot, remove the shrimp from the refrigerator and give them a final shake in the flour mixture. Discard any remaining flour mixture.

Step 6: Working in batches, fry the shrimp in the hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they become opaque and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shrimp to a serving bowl.

Step 7: Immediately coat the fried shrimp with the prepared buffalo sauce, tossing gently to ensure all shrimp are well coated. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	626	-
Total Fat	32g	41%
Saturated Fat	8g	38%
Cholesterol	199mg	66%
Sodium	2129mg	93%
Total Carbohydrate	54g	20%
Dietary Fiber	3g	11%
Total Sugars	2g	-
Protein	30g	60%
Vitamin C	37mg	41%
Calcium	92mg	7%
Iron	5mg	30%
Potassium	489mg	10%

Note: Nutritional values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs. If you are following a medically restricted diet, consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Origin and History of Buffalo Shrimp

Buffalo shrimp is a popular seafood variation of the well-known Buffalo wings. The dish originates from Buffalo, New York, where the first Buffalo wings were created in 1964 by Teressa Bellissimo at the Anchor Bar. The original Buffalo wings were deep-fried chicken wings coated in a spicy hot sauce and butter mixture. Over time, this iconic recipe inspired a wide array of variations, including Buffalo shrimp. This dish takes the same zesty, spicy Buffalo sauce and uses shrimp as the main protein. It's a perfect fusion of the beloved flavors of Buffalo wings and seafood, offering a spicy, crunchy bite with every serving.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

While Buffalo shrimp is widely recognized across the United States, it is particularly popular in regions with strong seafood cultures, such as the Gulf Coast. In New Orleans, for example, you may find variations of the dish that use Creole seasoning or a mix of Cajun spices to give it an extra kick. The Gulf Coast is known for its abundance of fresh shrimp, making it a natural location for the dishs widespread appeal. In other regions, cooks may opt to bake or broil the shrimp instead of deep-frying to create a lighter version of the dish.

Buffalo Shrimp vs. Buffalo Wings

Buffalo shrimp differs from Buffalo wings primarily in its choice of protein. While wings use chicken, Buffalo shrimp is made using shrimp, which offers a lighter, more delicate texture. The shrimp also cooks much faster than chicken wings, making it a great alternative for those looking for a quick and flavorful appetizer or main course. The preparation method remains largely the same: both dishes are coated in a seasoned flour mixture, fried, and then tossed in a spicy Buffalo sauce. However, due to the smaller size and quicker cooking time of shrimp, it is often considered a more versatile and easier-to-make option compared to wings.

Where Buffalo Shrimp is Commonly Served

Buffalo shrimp is often served in casual dining settings, such as sports bars, seafood restaurants, and pub-style eateries. It is a popular appetizer in these environments, served alongside other favorites like fries, celery sticks, and dipping sauces such as blue cheese or ranch dressing. You can also find it as a main course at many Southern and seafood-focused restaurants, often paired with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. Whether served as an appetizer at a game-watching party or as a main dish at a seafood restaurant, Buffalo shrimp offers a flavorful bite that appeals to both seafood lovers and fans of spicy food.

Interesting Facts About Buffalo Shrimp

• Buffalo shrimp is a great way to enjoy the spicy, tangy flavor of Buffalo wings without the mess of chicken bones!
• Buffalo shrimp is often enjoyed with a cooling side of blue cheese dressing, which helps to temper the heat of the spicy sauce.
• While traditionally fried, Buffalo shrimp can also be broiled or baked for a healthier alternative, without sacrificing too much of the flavor.
• The term Buffalo in the dish refers to the city of Buffalo, New York, rather than the animal.
• Many variations of Buffalo shrimp include different heat levels, ranging from mild to extremely spicy. You can adjust the heat by tweaking the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce used in the recipe.

FAQ about Buffalo Shrimp Recipe

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