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Welcome to another delicious and easy-to-follow recipe! Today, we are bringing you an irresistible Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp recipe that’s perfect for an appetizer, dinner, or even a snack. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or looking for something quick to satisfy your cravings, this crispy shrimp dish will not disappoint. Get ready to enjoy a bite of crispy, juicy shrimp seasoned to perfection with salt and pepper!

Introduction

Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a popular Chinese dish that brings together simplicity and bold flavors. It’s loved for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. This dish is often enjoyed as an appetizer, but it’s versatile enough to be served as a main course alongside rice or noodles. The combination of salt and pepper adds a savory, slightly spicy kick that will keep you coming back for more. If you love crispy shrimp dishes, this recipe is a must-try!

Looking to impress guests with something special? This Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe is a crowd-pleaser and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Explore more delicious Chinese-inspired recipes on Optimal Recipes!

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Ingredients for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Here’s what you need to make Salt and Pepper Shrimp:

• 18-20 large Shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied
• 1 cup Cornstarch
• 1 long Thai Red Chili, finely chopped
• 2 dried Red Chilies, roughly chopped
• 2 Green Onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil + Oil for frying
• Coriander, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Marinade:

• 1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Chinese Cooking Wine
• 1 Egg, whisked

Salt and Pepper Mix:

• 1 tbsp Sichuan Peppercorns
• 1 tbsp Black Peppercorns
• 1 tbsp Sea Salt

Optional substitutions:

• For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• For those sensitive to spice, reduce or eliminate the Thai red chili and dried chilies.

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How to Make Salt and Pepper Shrimp – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Salt and Pepper Mix

In a frying pan, toast the Sichuan Peppercorns and Black Peppercorns on medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Use a mortar and pestle to grind them into a fine powder. Mix in the Sea Salt and set the blend aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Slice the back of the shrimp to butterfly them. In a bowl, combine the Light Soy Sauce, Chinese Cooking Wine, and Whisked Egg. Add the shrimp to the marinade and set aside for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

In a large bowl, add the Cornstarch. Drain the shrimp and toss them in the cornstarch to coat. Shake off excess starch.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

In a wok or deep frying pan, heat enough oil for the shrimp to float. Test the oil’s temperature by inserting a wooden chopstick—when bubbles form, it’s ready. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels or a wire rack.

Step 5: Stir-fry the Aromatics

In a clean wok, heat 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil over medium-high heat. Add the Garlic, Thai Red Chili, Dried Chilies, and Green Onions. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the crispy shrimp and sprinkle a generous amount of the Salt and Pepper Mix over the shrimp.

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Helpful Tips for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Make sure the oil is hot before frying to get the crispiest shrimp.
• Adjust the amount of Salt and Pepper Mix based on your preference. If you like it spicier, add more black pepper or even red chili flakes!

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Cooking Tips for the Best Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Tip 1: Butterfly the shrimp – This helps them cook more evenly and makes them more tender.
• Tip 2: Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure crispy results.
• Tip 3: Keep the heat consistent – High heat is essential for crispy frying. Use a thermometer to maintain a steady temperature.

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Serving Suggestions for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

This crispy shrimp pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles. If you’re serving this as an appetizer, consider pairing it with a light dipping sauce like soy sauce with lime juice or a sweet chili sauce. For a refreshing side, a cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing complements the rich flavors of the shrimp.

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Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1/4 of the recipe):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 1g

This Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe is packed with protein from the shrimp and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a satisfying yet light meal option.

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Storage and Leftovers for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Storage: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat the shrimp in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp soggy.

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4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the shrimp thoroughly before marinating.

Q2: What can I substitute for Sichuan peppercorns?
A: You can use regular black pepper and add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of extra spice.

Q3: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

Q4: Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
A: While frying gives the best crispy texture, you can bake the shrimp in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes, turning once halfway through.

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2 Related Recipes for Salt and Pepper Shrimp Lovers:

1. Crispy Pepperoni Pizza Panini: For fans of crispy textures, this pizza panini will be a hit.
2. Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup: A comforting soup to pair with your crispy shrimp.

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Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this easy and flavorful Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp recipe! It’s quick to make and will impress both family and guests. Don’t forget to share your feedback or any personal variations in the comments below. Try it out, and let us know how it goes!

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