Buttermilk Fried Prawns
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
- Audio Version
This high-protein dish featuring buttermilk fried prawns offers a delicious balance of succulent seafood and a crisp, spiced coating. The prawns are marinated in a bespoke blend of aromatic herbs and spices, including paprika and cayenne, before being dipped in tangy buttermilk. A final dredging in flour and cornmeal ensures a satisfying crunch that rivals any professional seafood shack, providing a wonderful contrast to the tender meat inside.
Perfect as a substantial starter or a main course, these golden prawns are a fantastic addition to your weekend menu. Serve them as part of a casual sharing platter or piled high with a side of fresh lemon wedges and a cooling rémoulade sauce. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers a sophisticated punch of flavour that is sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
In this article:
Video picks
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Buttermilk Fried Prawns
2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoons onion powder
Vegetable oil for frying
675g medium prawns (about 36), peeled, deveined
240ml buttermilk
350ml plain flour
240ml cornmeal
Rémoulade Sauce (optional), to serve
How to make Buttermilk Fried Prawns
Back to contentsWhisk salt, cayenne, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and onion powder in a small bowl to blend.
Attach a deep-fry thermometer to side of a heavy wide pot. Add enough oil to measure 2". Heat over medium heat to 177°C.
Meanwhile, place prawns and 2 tablespoons spice mix in a medium bowl and toss to coat. Pour buttermilk into another medium bowl. Whisk flour and cornmeal in another medium bowl.
Dip seasoned prawns briefly in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture. Working in batches, fry prawns, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and just cooked through, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
Serve prawns with rémoulade sauce.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
28 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.