East Meets West Popcorn Shrimp Salad Recipes

POPCORN SHRIMP SALAD

Steps:

• Make the dressing: Whisk the mayonnaise, cornichons and their liquid, mustard, hot sauce, and salt and pepper to taste in a bowl.
• Prepare the salad: Halve the shrimp lengthwise. Whisk the egg and 2 tablespoons water in a medium bowl. In another bowl, whisk the flour, Cajun seasoning and 2 teaspoons salt.
• Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350 degrees. (A piece of shrimp will sizzle on contact.) Dip each shrimp in the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture. Working in batches, fry the shrimp until crisp and golden, turning once, about 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper-towel-lined plate; season with salt.
• Toss the romaine, tomato, onion and bell pepper with the dressing in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Divide the salad among plates and scatter the shrimp on top.

ALMOST-FAMOUS POPCORN SHRIMP

Steps:

• Mix 3 cups ice water, the granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Add the shrimp and set aside 15 minutes, then drain well and pat dry. Dry the bowl; return the shrimp to the bowl and toss with 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning.
• Whisk the flour, cornstarch, confectioners' sugar, the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning and the beer in a large bowl to make a smooth batter. Add the shrimp, pepperoncini and roasted peppers and stir until evenly coated.
• Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350 degrees F. Working in batches, remove the shrimp, pepperoncini and roasted peppers from the batter with a slotted spoon, transfer to the hot oil and fry until golden, about 3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels; season with salt. Serve with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce and/or tartar sauce.