O'Steen's Makes the Best Fried Shrimp On the Planet......

I have eaten at O'Steen's a jillion times and still marvel at the perfection of the fried shrimp. They are consistently exemplary every single time. The side dishes and specials all are definitive and dead ringer perfect. And then...........the real secret..........if you can get past the fried shrimp, try the fried chicken is to die for.

Another sure fire sign of excellence: many of the staff have been there for 25 years or more. They are as good as the food: friendly, intelligent, efficient, and proud of the food they serve. 

I do not exaggerate about O'Steens. This is the creme de la creme of its genre.

I coaxed this recipe from someone who would know how they prepare their shrimp:


O'Steen's Fried Shrimp
(Serves 2)

Ingredients:

3/4 measure of mix of fine cracker meal

1/4 measure of regular flour

1-2 eggs

Whole milk - 1/2 to 3/4 cup

1.5 pounds of large, domestic shrimp.

Bring the shrimp to room temperature. Rinse and peel. I leave the tails on when I can. 

Whisk the dry ingredients together in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together the milk and the egg(s). Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix to batter consistently, not too thick, not too thin. Add small amount of milk if needed.

Dredge the shrimp in the batter gently shaking off excess.

Slide each shrimp into the hot oil to avoid splattering. Do not overcrowd the shrimp. If cooking a lot of shrimp, be prepared to cook in small batches. 

The shrimp should bubble vigorously when hitting the oil. Flash fry until the shrimp reaches a light brown color. It will cook rapidly. Do not overcook.

Remove and place on a platter with paper towels or a paper bag. Immediately, salt and pepper. Cajun seasoning can be added though O'Steen's does not.

Serve immediately.