There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp hitting your palate, especially when it’s infused with the exciting flavors of salt and pepper. I first fell in love with Salt and Pepper Shrimp on a cozy evening with friends, where laughter filled the air and the scent of spices wafted from the kitchen. This Cantonese staple is not just a dish; it’s an experience that transports you to bustling streets filled with delicious aromas.
What I adore most is its seamless ability to impress—whether you’re throwing a lavish dinner party or simply treating yourself to a flavorful weeknight meal. In under an hour, you can create a dish that marries crispy textures with a delightful kick. You’ll find that once you master this recipe, it becomes a go-to favorite—perfect for impressing guests or for indulging in a comforting homemade meal. Let’s dive into the exotic world of flavors that this Salt and Pepper Shrimp offers!
Why is Salt and Pepper Shrimp so irresistible?
Irresistible Crunch: The light, crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy shrimp that will make your taste buds dance.
Flavors that Pop: Infused with aromatic garlic and a perfect balance of saltiness and spice, this dish is a flavor explosion in every bite.
Fast and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s a quick solution for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
Versatile Delight: Customize with different peppers or serve it alongside your favorite sides, making it suitable for any occasion.
Audience-Captivating: Impress family and friends with a restaurant-quality experience right at home, ensuring everyone at the table will be coming back for more!
Salt and Pepper Shrimp Ingredients
• To prepare this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients for your Salt and Pepper Shrimp.
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp (shells on and deveined) – Choose fresh ones for the best flavor and texture.
- Potato Starch or Cornstarch – Use cornstarch for a wonderfully light and crispy coating.
- Oil (for frying) – Employ vegetable or canola oil for a neutral flavor during frying.
For the Seasoning Mix
- Whole Peppercorns – Roast and grind to unlock their aromatic, spicy flavor.
- Sea Salt – Enhances the shrimp’s taste; sea salt offers a superior texture.
For Sautéing
- Garlic (finely chopped) – Fresh garlic lends an enticing aromatic depth and flavor.
- Long Hot Green or Red Pepper – This will add heat and vibrant color to your dish; feel free to substitute with jalapeños for a milder option.
With this combination of ingredients, your Salt and Pepper Shrimp will be an unforgettable culinary experience that’s sure to become a favorite!
How to Make Salt and Pepper Shrimp
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Prepare the Salt and Pepper Mixture: Start by roasting whole peppercorns in a pot over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, until fragrant. Allow to cool, then grind to a fine powder. Roast the sea salt until slightly yellow, then mix with the ground peppercorns for a lovely seasoning blend.
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Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the large shrimp thoroughly and use a paper towel to dry them completely; dryness is key for that crispy texture! Dredge the shrimp in potato starch or cornstarch, ensuring they are well coated.
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Fry the Shrimp: In a cast iron skillet, heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry the shrimp in batches, giving each a quick 30 seconds on each side until they’re perfectly crispy. Drain the fried shrimp on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
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Stir-Fry Garlic and Peppers: In a wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped garlic until it’s golden brown and aromatic. Carefully remove any excess oil, then toss in the sliced hot peppers, stir-frying just briefly for a splash of flavor and color.
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Combine: Add the fried shrimp back into the wok. Toss them with the garlic and peppers, sprinkling in an extra dusting of your salt and pepper mixture to taste. Stir-fry for a minute to combine, then serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions for added brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it sealed to retain as much crispiness as possible.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheating: To restore the crispy texture, reheat shrimp in a hot skillet or air fryer for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Fresh Enjoyment: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so try to prepare only what you can consume for optimal flavor and texture!
Expert Tips for Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Dry Shrimp Well: Ensure shrimp are very dry before dredging them; moisture will lead to a soggy texture instead of that delightful crispiness.
Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 375°F (190°C). Too low will make them greasy, and too high will burn them quickly.
Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing each shrimp to cook evenly and maintain that irresistible crunch.
Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spice level by using more or less pepper; experiment until you find the perfect balance that suits your palate!
Gently Toss: When combining shrimp with garlic and peppers, toss gently to avoid breaking the crispy coating of the shrimp. This ensures every bite stays deliciously crunchy!
Serving Fresh: For the best experience, serve Salt and Pepper Shrimp immediately after cooking. They taste best when hot and fresh, with that crispy texture intact.
Make Ahead Options
These Salt and Pepper Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the seasoning mixture and coat the shrimp in potato starch or cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance for a quicker cooking experience. Simply roast and grind the peppercorns, then store the blend in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Keep the coated shrimp in the refrigerator, layered between parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to cook, heat your oil and fry the shrimp directly from the fridge; just a quick 30 seconds per side will yield that irresistible crispiness. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Salt and Pepper Shrimp with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
Salt and Pepper Shrimp Variations
Everyone deserves a personalized twist on this delicious dish, so feel free to get creative!
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Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with large scallops for a tender, sweet alternative that still absorbs flavor beautifully.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use crispy tofu in place of shrimp for a plant-based option that’s equally satisfying and deliciously seasoned.
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Different Spice Levels: For a milder dish, substitute hot peppers with sweet bell peppers, offering a burst of color without the heat.
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Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in chopped cilantro or basil at the end for a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the flavors.
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Crunchy Toasted Nuts: Stir in crushed peanuts or cashews just before serving for an extra layer of crunch and richness.
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Sichuan Spin: Experiment with adding Sichuan peppercorns for their unique fragrance and floral taste, creating a memorable tingling sensation.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the finished dish for a zesty finish that elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Umami Boost: A splash of soy sauce during the stir-frying step enhances umami and adds depth to this savory dish, making it even more irresistible.
What to Serve with Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Enhance your culinary experience with delightful pairings that bring out the best in this dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice acts as a perfect base, soaking up every flavorful bite and balancing the shrimp’s heat.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots adds freshness and crunch, complementing the savory shrimp.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber slices tossed in a light vinegar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced shrimp.
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Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce: This tangy accompaniment offers a delightful contrast to the dish, balancing the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors, with acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish.
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Fortune Cookies: These sweet treats bring an element of fun to the meal, creating a light-hearted finish after enjoying the savory shrimp.
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Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing dessert that cools the palate, emphasizing the dish’s spicy notes while offering a tropical twist.
Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Salt and Pepper Shrimp, look for large shrimp that are fresh, bright in color, and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as this indicates they may not be fresh. If you’re in a pinch, large scallops can also be a delicious alternative!
What’s the best way to store leftover Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
For those delightful leftovers, store Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to seal it tightly to help retain the crispiness. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a hot skillet or air fryer to revitalize the texture—microwaving can often lead to sogginess, so it’s best to avoid that method!
Can I freeze cooked Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it directly in the freezer until frozen solid (about 1 to 2 hours). Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my shrimp doesn’t turn out crispy?
If your shrimp aren’t achieving that desired crispiness, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure that the shrimp are completely dry before dredging them in potato starch or cornstarch—moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Secondly, make sure your oil is at the right temperature (375°F or 190°C). If it’s too low, the shrimp will absorb oil and become greasy; too hot, and they might burn without cooking through. Always fry in small batches to give each shrimp plenty of space!
Is it safe for pets to eat Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
While Salt and Pepper Shrimp can be a delicious dish for humans, it’s best not to share this with your pets. The added salt and spices could potentially upset their stomach. If your furry friend tends to beg for a taste, feel free to set aside a few unseasoned shrimp before adding the spices; just make sure it’s a small, occasional treat.
Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp for Your Flavor Adventure
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Salt and Pepper Mixture by roasting whole peppercorns in a pot over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, until fragrant. Allow to cool, then grind to a fine powder. Roast sea salt until slightly yellow, then mix with the ground peppercorns.
- Prepare the Shrimp by rinsing large shrimp thoroughly and drying them completely with a paper towel. Dredge the shrimp in potato starch or cornstarch, ensuring they are well coated.
- Fry the Shrimp in a cast iron skillet. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry the shrimp in batches for 30 seconds on each side until crispy. Drain on a paper towel.
- Stir-Fry Garlic and Peppers in a wok over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of oil. Sauté chopped garlic until golden brown. Remove excess oil and add sliced hot peppers, stir-frying briefly.
- Combine the fried shrimp back into the wok, toss with garlic and peppers, and sprinkle with an extra dusting of salt and pepper mixture. Stir-fry for a minute, then serve immediately.