Shrimp Basket from Shoney's features golden, crispy fried shrimp served with crunchy French fries and tangy cocktail sauce, delivering a satisfying combination of savory seafood and crispy sides.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Baking sheet (for draining)
- Paper towels or wire rack
- Serving trays or plates
- Sauce dish/cup
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Dash hot sauce (optional)
Ensure your shrimp are fully peeled and deveined for the best texture and taste. Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs to achieve a crispier coating when frying. Maintain vegetable oil temperature around 350degF for perfectly golden shrimp and fries. Fresh russet potatoes are ideal for making crispy French fries with a tender interior. Your Shrimp Basket from Shoney's copycat menu will deliver the same satisfying combination of crispy shrimp, fries, and tangy cocktail sauce as the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Peel and cut russet potatoes into fries; soak in cold water for 30 minutes.
- Preheat deep fryer oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Prepare three bowls: flour mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne (if using); beaten eggs; breadcrumbs or panko.
- Dredge shrimp in seasoned flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Drain and dry potato fries thoroughly.
- Fry potatoes in batches until golden and crisp, 3–4 minutes per batch; drain on paper towels or wire rack.
- Fry breaded shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and cooked through; drain on paper towels or wire rack.
- In a bowl, mix ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce for cocktail sauce.
- Arrange fried shrimp and fries in serving trays or plates.
- Serve with cocktail sauce in a sauce dish/cup.
Substitution
Shrimp Basket from Shoney's copycat menu replicates the classic golden, crispy fried shrimp served with crunchy French fries and tangy cocktail sauce. If you don't have a deep fryer, a heavy-bottomed pot with enough oil to submerge the shrimp can work for frying. Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs can be substituted if needed. For the cocktail sauce, adjust the horseradish and hot sauce levels to suit your spice preference. Using a wire rack instead of paper towels allows excess oil to drain while keeping the shrimp crispier.
Tips
Make sure to pat shrimp completely dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well and fries evenly. Fry potato fries in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve crispness without sogginess. Use a thermometer to keep the oil temperature steady at 350degF (175degC) during frying for perfect golden results. You can prepare the cocktail sauce ahead and adjust ingredients to your taste for a personalized tangy dip.
Nutritions
Shrimp Basket from Shoney's offers a flavorful combination rich in protein from the shrimp, essential for muscle repair and growth. The dish also provides carbohydrates from the French fries, supplying energy, while the coating and frying process add calories from fats. The cocktail sauce contributes minimal calories but enhances flavor with vitamin C from lemon juice and potential digestive benefits from horseradish. Your meal balances protein and carbs but should be consumed in moderation due to its fried preparation and sodium content.
Storage
Store leftover fried shrimp and fries in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Keep your container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness and safety. Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) to restore crispiness without compromising texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips to add extra crunch to your shrimp basket. Swap russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-rich alternative to French fries. Consider baking the shrimp and fries at 425degF (220degC) for 20-25 minutes to reduce oil usage while still achieving crispiness. For a twist on the cocktail sauce, mix in Dijon mustard or a dash of smoked paprika to enhance its flavor profile.
Allergies
Shrimp Basket from Shoney's contains shellfish, which is a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The fried coating includes wheat flour and breadcrumbs, both of which contain gluten that may affect those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Your safety is important, so always check for potential cross-contamination or ingredient substitutions if you have food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Shrimp Basket's menu at Shoney's features crispy, golden-fried shrimp renowned for their crunchy texture and flavorful seasoning, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers. The generous portions paired with classic sides like fries and coleslaw offer a satisfying and well-rounded meal at an affordable price point. You can replicate this beloved dish at home with basic ingredients and a crispy coating technique, allowing you to enjoy the delicious taste and quality without dining out. Creating this copycat recipe ensures fresh, customizable shrimp meals tailored to your preferences, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.