Butterfly Shrimp from Captain D's features succulent, hand-breaded shrimp that are crispy golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, served with a side of tangy dipping sauce for a delightful seafood experience.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Sheet pan
- Wire rack
- Slotted spoon
- Thermometer
- Plates or serving trays
- Sauce ramekin
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups plain breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Tangy dipping sauce (your choice or tartar sauce)
Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly peeled and deveined while keeping the tails on for optimal texture and presentation. Use plain breadcrumbs combined with paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to replicate the signature seasoning that gives Butterfly Shrimp from Captain D's its distinctive flavor. Maintain the proper oil temperature in your deep fryer to achieve a crispy golden brown exterior without overcooking the tender shrimp inside. Use a thermometer to monitor frying temperature and a wire rack to drain excess oil, preserving the shrimp's crunchiness. Your homemade version of Butterfly Shrimp from Captain D's will closely match the irresistible taste and texture of the restaurant's copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C); fill with vegetable oil.
- Butterfly each shrimp by slicing along the back, being careful not to cut through.
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Set up three mixing bowls:
- Bowl 1: all-purpose flour
- Bowl 2: whisk together eggs and milk
- Bowl 3: mix breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- Dredge each shrimp in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip shrimp into egg-milk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat shrimp in seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Arrange breaded shrimp on a sheet pan lined with wire rack.
- Working in batches, carefully lower shrimp into preheated oil using tongs or slotted spoon.
- Fry shrimp for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove shrimp and drain on wire rack or paper towels.
- Serve hot on plates or trays with lemon wedges and a ramekin of tangy dipping sauce.
Substitution
Butterfly Shrimp from Captain D's copycat menu offers a crispy, golden coating that locks in tender shrimp flavor for an authentic seafood experience. If you don't have plain breadcrumbs, panko or crushed crackers work as great substitutes to maintain crunchiness. When frying, monitor the oil temperature with a thermometer to ensure even cooking and prevent sogginess. You can use your favorite dipping sauce if tangy options aren't available, tailoring the flavor to your preference. Keep cooked shrimp warm on a wire rack over a sheet pan to avoid soggy bottoms before serving.
Tips
Maintaining the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil, so use a thermometer to monitor consistently. Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before breading to help the coating adhere properly and prevent sogginess. When breading, press the seasoned breadcrumbs gently onto the shrimp to create an even layer that stays intact during frying. Let your finished butterfly shrimp drain on a wire rack rather than paper towels to keep them crispy and avoid steaming.
Nutritions
Butterfly Shrimp from Captain D's delivers a protein-rich meal with approximately 20 grams of protein per 4-ounce serving, supporting muscle repair and growth. The breading, made with all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs, adds carbohydrates and fiber, while the frying process contributes to its calorie and fat content, primarily from vegetable oil. Spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance flavor without adding significant sodium or calories. Your choice of dipping sauce may affect the overall nutritional profile, so opt for lighter options like tangy sauces over heavier tartar sauces for a healthier seafood experience.
Storage
Store leftover Butterfly Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain their crispiness and freshness for up to 2 days. Avoid stacking the shrimp to prevent sogginess, and reheat them in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore their golden crunch. Your shrimp will retain optimal texture and flavor when properly stored and reheated using these methods.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for plain breadcrumbs to achieve an even crispier texture on your butterfly shrimp. For a healthier twist, try baking the breaded shrimp at 400degF (200degC) for 12-15 minutes instead of deep frying, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture can introduce a subtle spicy kick that complements the shrimp's natural sweetness. Experiment with swapping the tangy dipping sauce for a garlic aioli or a zesty sriracha mayo for variety in flavor profiles.
Allergies
Butterfly Shrimp from Captain D's contains shellfish, a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The breading includes wheat-based all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs, both sources of gluten that may trigger allergies or intolerances. Your allergen precautions should also consider eggs and milk present in the batter mixture, as these ingredients can provoke allergic responses in some people.
Why this recipe?
Captain D's Butterfly Shrimp menu is popular for its crispy, golden-brown coating paired with tender, juicy shrimp that deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. The perfectly seasoned batter enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, providing a balance of flavor that seafood lovers crave. Many appreciate the consistent quality and portion size, making it an excellent value for a quick, flavorful meal. You can recreate this favorite at home for a fraction of the cost, ensuring fresh ingredients and customizable seasoning tailored to your taste.