Dot and Etta's Shrimp Batter Recipe

Unlock the savory magic of Dot & Etta's Shrimp Batter Recipe! Recreate the iconic Detroit delight with our step-by-step guide. 🍤🔥 #ShrimpBatter

Dot and Etta's Shrimp Batter

• Publisher: Crisp Recipe
• Cuisine: American
• Category: Main Course
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 250 calories

Dot & Etta's Shrimp Batter recipe, as inspired by the iconic shrimp huts of metro Detroit, is a delicious and crispy batter that encapsulates the legacy of Dot & Etta's. For nearly six decades, this family-run chain delighted seafood enthusiasts with their signature deep-fried shrimp, creating a reputation for having the best fried shrimp in the city.

To recreate this beloved recipe, begin by preparing a simple yet flavorful batter. Combine all-purpose flour with a touch of baking powder, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and just a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. The secret ingredient, as revealed in the press release, is the use of cold sparkling water, which adds a unique crispiness to the batter.

After whisking the batter to a smooth consistency, dip large, peeled, and deveined shrimp into it, ensuring they are coated generously. These shrimp represent the heart of Dot & Etta's tradition.

The next step involves frying the shrimp to perfection, just as Dot & Etta's did for decades. Heat up vegetable oil to the right temperature, usually around 350°F (175°C), and carefully immerse the battered shrimp into it. Fry them in batches, allowing each piece to turn golden brown and achieve that irresistible crispiness that patrons fondly remember.

Finally, serve the Dot & Etta's-inspired fried shrimp with classic accompaniments like cocktail sauce or tartar sauce. This recipe is a nostalgic tribute to the beloved shrimp huts and their culinary heritage, bringing back the taste of Dot & Etta's famed fried shrimp to your table. Enjoy a delightful piece of Detroit's seafood history!

Read on to discover step-by-step how-to with tips and recommendations for you.

Recipe

Dive into the irresistible world of Dot & Etta's Fried Shrimp! Discover the secret recipe behind Detroit's legendary seafood sensation.🍤🔥 #FriedShrimp #SeafoodDelight

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness)
• 1 cup cold sparkling water (or beer for a different flavor profile)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Method Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, just as Dot & Etta's did.
2. Gradually add the cold sparkling water (or beer) to the dry ingredients while whisking to create a smooth batter. The secret here is using cold sparkling water for that extra crispiness.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C), following the tradition of frying.
4. Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, just like Dot & Etta's did in their huts.
5. Carefully place the battered shrimp into the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Fry in batches to ensure they cook evenly, emulating the quality they offered at their multiple locations.
6. Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy, just as Dot & Etta's aimed for.
7. Remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
8. Serve your Dot & Etta's-inspired fried shrimp with a classic cocktail sauce or tartar sauce to capture the nostalgia of their iconic dish.

This recipe should bring back the flavors of Dot & Etta's legendary fried shrimp, allowing you to savor a taste of their history. Enjoy!

Recipe Video

Dot and Etta's Shrimp Batter

This is a video about Dot and Etta's Shrimp Batter.

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Recipe Tags: Dot and Etta's Shrimp Batter, Dot and Etta's Shrimp Batter Recipe, Recipe

Servings

To serve Dot & Etta's Fried Shrimp Batter, you can create a delicious and visually appealing presentation. Here's how:

1. Plating: Use a clean and spacious plate or platter to showcase your crispy fried shrimp. Arrange them neatly in a single layer to highlight their golden-brown color and crunchy texture.
2. Garnish: Consider adding a touch of fresh garnish for both flavor and presentation. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the shrimp for a burst of color and a hint of herbaceousness.
3. Dipping Sauces: Provide small bowls or ramekins filled with classic dipping sauces on the side. Popular choices include cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or even a simple squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy kick. These sauces complement the shrimp's flavors and add a dipping element to the meal.
4. Side Dish: Serve Dot & Etta's Inspired Fried Shrimp with your favorite side dish to complete the meal. Coleslaw, french fries, or a fresh garden salad make excellent accompaniments. These sides balance the richness of the fried shrimp.
5. Lemon Wedges: Place a few lemon wedges on the plate or in a separate dish. This allows diners to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their shrimp for a zesty, tangy twist.
6. Family-Style: If you're serving a larger group or want to create a family-style dining experience, you can present the shrimp in a large serving platter in the center of the table, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
7. Paper Towels: Don't forget to provide paper towels or napkins. Fried shrimp can be a bit messy but oh-so-delicious, and having a way to clean fingers is essential.

Tips

1. Fresh Shrimp: Start with high-quality, fresh shrimp. Look for large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. The freshness of the seafood will greatly impact the final flavor.
2. Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on the oil temperature while frying. Use a thermometer to ensure it stays around 350°F (175°C). Fluctuations in temperature can affect the shrimp's texture and crispiness.
3. Dry Shrimp: Before dipping the shrimp in the batter, make sure they are dry. Excess moisture can cause the batter to become soggy. Pat the shrimp with paper towels if needed.
4. Batter Consistency: Aim for a batter that's not too thick or too thin. It should coat the back of a spoon but still have some viscosity. Adjust the amount of sparkling water or beer as needed to achieve the right consistency.
5. Work in Batches: Fry the shrimp in batches rather than overcrowding the frying pan. This ensures that each shrimp cooks evenly and maintains its crispiness.
6. Draining Excess Oil: After frying, place the shrimp on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step helps keep the shrimp crispy and prevents them from becoming greasy.
7. Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you prefer a spicier shrimp, add more cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with other spices or herbs to customize the flavor.
8. Dipping Sauces: Explore different dipping sauces to accompany the shrimp. In addition to cocktail sauce and tartar sauce, consider options like aioli, remoulade, or sweet chili sauce for variety.
9. Serving Fresh: Fried shrimp is at its best when served immediately. Try to serve it hot and crispy for the ultimate dining experience.
10. Safety: Ultimately, be cautious when working with hot oil. Use a deep fryer or a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, and never leave it unattended. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and have a lid for the pot in case of oil flare-ups.

Ingredient Substitutes

Should you need to make ingredient substitutions for the Dot & Etta's Inspired Fried Shrimp recipe? I have some potential options you can consider below here:

1. Shrimp Size: While large shrimp are typically used, you can use smaller shrimp if that's what you have on hand. Just adjust the frying time accordingly as smaller shrimp will cook faster.
2. All-Purpose Flour: If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour. Almond flour or rice flour can also work as substitutes.
3. Baking Powder: Baking powder adds some leavening to the batter. You can substitute it with baking soda, but use only a fraction of the amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) since it's more potent.
4. Cold Sparkling Water: If you prefer not to use sparkling water or beer, you can use cold regular water as a substitute. However, the effervescence of sparkling water or beer contributes to the batter's light and airy texture.
5. Vegetable Oil: Peanut oil or canola oil are common substitutes for frying. Use an oil with a high smoke point to prevent it from breaking down at the frying temperature.
6. Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you want a milder flavor, reduce the amount of paprika and cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with other seasonings like Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, or lemon pepper.
7. Dipping Sauces: The choice of dipping sauce is highly customizable. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can prepare a yogurt-based sauce or a vinaigrette instead of traditional cocktail or tartar sauce.
8. Side Dish: The side dish is flexible too. Instead of traditional coleslaw or french fries, consider serving the shrimp with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even rice for a different twist.

Remarks

Inspired by Detroit's culinary legacy, this Dot & Etta's Shrimp Batter Recipe pays tribute to a seafood sensation. Savor the nostalgia, one crispy bite at a time. Your taste buds will thank you for this delectable journey into tradition!