National French Fried Shrimp Day celebrates one of America’s most beloved seafood dishes – crispy, golden-brown shrimp coated in a delicious batter and deep-fried to perfection.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: December 21st annually
- Tagged as: Food Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #FrenchFriedShrimpDay
- When was it founded?: 2000
- Who founded it?: Originated in Salt Lake City, Utah
History
French fried shrimp, despite its name, didn’t originate in France. The practice of coating shrimp in batter and frying them dates back to 16th-century Portuguese cuisine. The dish gained popularity in American cuisine, particularly in Southern states, becoming a staple at seafood restaurants nationwide.
Timeline
- 1700s: French explorers discover shrimping in Louisiana marshes
- 1800s: Mobile, Alabama establishes itself as a premier seafood location
- 1900s: Shrimp becomes widely available across America
- 2000: First National French Fried Shrimp Day celebration
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Dec | 21 |
| 2025 | Dec | 21 |
| 2026 | Dec | 21 |
| 2027 | Dec | 21 |
| 2028 | Dec | 21 |
Observed
The day is celebrated by enjoying French fried shrimp at restaurants or preparing them at home. Many seafood establishments offer special deals and promotions on this day.
Fun Facts About Shrimp
- Americans consume over 1.4 billion pounds of shrimp annually
- Shrimp can live up to 20 years in captivity
- They’re high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein
- Japan is the world’s largest consumer of shrimp per capita
Quiz
- What date is National French Fried Shrimp Day?
- Where did French fried shrimp originate?
- How many pounds of shrimp does America consume annually?
-(Answers: December 21st, Portugal, 1.4 billion pounds)
FAQs
Q: How long should shrimp be fried?
A: 2-3 minutes until golden brown
Q: How do you keep fried shrimp crispy?
A: Place on a cooling rack over a baking sheet
Importance of French Fried Shrimp Day
This celebration highlights America’s love for seafood while bringing people together over a shared appreciation for this crispy delicacy. It also promotes awareness about sustainable fishing practices and seafood consumption.
Related
- National Shrimp Day (May 10)
- National Shrimp Scampi Day (April 29)
- National Seafood Month (October)
- National Fish and Chips Day
- National Tempura Day