Cajun Fried Shrimp

Step 1: First butterfly and devein the shrimp. (That is, make a deep slit down the back of each shrimp, all the way from the large end to the tail, cutting to but not through the inside curve of the shrimp, thenrRemove the dark line that runs along the length of the shrimp. Toss the butterflied, deveined shrimp in a large bowl.)

Step 2: In another large bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, mustard if desired, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Pour the mixture over the shrimp, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour.

Step 3: In a shallow dish, combine 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and the fish-fry mix, cornmeal, or self-rising flour. Dredge the shrimp in the mixture and shake off any excess.

Step 4: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on 2 baking sheets.

Step 5: Pour enough oil into a Dutch oven or other deep-sided pot to reach a depth of 3 inches. Heat the oil to 325°F (163°C). Place wire cooling racks over paper towels or spread some brown paper grocery bags on your counter.

Step 6: Fry the shrimp in small batches, being careful not to crowd the pot, flipping once, until golden brown, about 1 1/2 minutes on each side.

Step 7: Transfer the shrimp to the wire racks or the brown paper bags to drain for a few brief moments.

Step 8: Serve hot.