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Fried Seafood Platter recipe

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Introduction

Dive into the ultimate seafood indulgence with this Fried Seafood Platter. Featuring a delightful mix of crispy shrimp, fish fillets, calamari rings, and scallops, this dish is a seafood lover’s dream. Paired with classic tartar and cocktail sauces, it’s perfect for family dinners, game-day feasts, or any occasion that calls for a comforting, shareable treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing

This platter offers a variety of seafood options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Perfectly Crispy Coating

The buttermilk marinade ensures a tender interior, while the seasoned coating provides a golden, crunchy crust.

Simple Yet Sophisticated

Easily elevate any meal with this restaurant-quality dish made right at home.

Ingredients

For the Seafood

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb fish fillets (cod, haddock, or catfish), cut into portions
  • 12 oz calamari rings
  • 12 oz sea scallops
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil

For Serving

  • Tartar sauce
  • Cocktail sauce
  • Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

  1. Rinse and dry: Rinse the shrimp, fish fillets, calamari rings, and scallops under cold water. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Marinate: Place the seafood in a large bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

  1. Mix the coating: In a shallow dish, combine:
    • 1 cup flour
    • 1 cup cornmeal
    • 2 tsp garlic powder
    • 2 tsp paprika
    • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (if desired)
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Step 3: Heat the Oil

  1. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the seafood. Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.

Step 4: Fry the Seafood

  1. Coat the seafood: Remove each piece of seafood from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
  2. Fry in batches: Carefully place the coated seafood into the hot oil, cooking in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy:
    • Shrimp: 2–3 minutes
    • Fish fillets: 4–5 minutes
    • Calamari: 1–2 minutes
    • Scallops: 2–3 minutes
  3. Drain: Remove the fried seafood with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Assemble the platter: Arrange the fried seafood on a large serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges.
  2. Serve with sauces: Accompany the seafood with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and additional lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Fried Seafood Platter with:

  • Coleslaw: Adds a fresh, tangy crunch.
  • French Fries: A classic side to complete the meal.
  • Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, perfect for soaking up any leftover flavors.

Pro Tips

Get the Oil Temperature Right

Maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C) for perfectly crispy seafood. Too low, and the coating will absorb oil; too high, and it will burn.

Avoid Overcrowding

Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and prevents the oil temperature from dropping.

Customize the Spice

Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, work best.

How do I keep the seafood crispy?

Drain the seafood on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Can I bake or air-fry this recipe?

While traditional frying yields the crispiest results, you can bake or air-fry for a lighter option. Spray the coated seafood with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) until golden and cooked through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover seafood in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Fried Seafood Platter combines a variety of seafood textures and flavors in a crispy, golden coating. Paired with classic dipping sauces and garnished with fresh lemon, it’s the perfect way to bring a restaurant-quality dish to your home table. Ideal for parties, family meals, or any seafood celebration!

Conclusion

Indulge in the ultimate Fried Seafood Platter—a crispy, flavorful feast that’s perfect for sharing. With its variety of seafood options and golden coating, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for any occasion. Gather your friends and family, serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy a truly memorable meal!

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