Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Discover the crispy, flavorful delight of Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp, a must-try recipe packed with bold, savory seasoning that effortlessly balances crunchy texture and aromatic spices. This iconic dish perfectly captures the essence of traditional Chinese cooking with a simple but thrilling combination of salt, pepper, and fresh shrimp, creating an irresistible treat that’ll quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy Perfection: The shrimp are coated lightly and fried to achieve an addictive crispiness that contrasts beautifully with their juicy interior.
• Savory Simplicity: Using just a handful of key seasonings ensures the shrimp’s natural flavors shine through without overwhelming the palate.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together fast, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or impressive appetizer for guests.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The salt and pepper blend adds just the right amount of seasoning to keep every bite flavorful but never overpowering.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs wonderfully with many sides and can be customized based on your spice preference or available ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, essential ingredients that each play an important role in ensuring that Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp turns out deliciously crispy, aromatic, and flavorful. From fresh shrimp to fragrant spices, each element works in harmony.

• Fresh Shrimp: Preferably medium-sized and peeled with tails on for easier eating and a nice presentation.
• Potato Starch or Cornstarch: Creates a light, airy coating that crisps perfectly when fried.
• Salt and White Pepper: The classic seasoning duo that gives the dish its signature flavor punch.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the dish with a vibrant aroma and subtle warmth.
• Green Onions: Julienned or chopped, they add freshness and a pop of color.
• Dried Red Chili Peppers: Adds just a hint of heat to balance the saltiness.
• Vegetable Oil: For deep frying, a neutral oil with a high smoke point is best.

Variations for Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Feel free to put your own spin on this classic Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe. It’s wonderfully adaptable to different tastes, dietary needs, or ingredient availability, so experimenting can be both fun and rewarding.

• Spicy Kick: Add more dried chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies for those who love a bolder heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use tapioca starch or rice flour instead of potato starch to keep it gluten-free without compromising crunch.
• Garlic Lovers: Double up on garlic to intensify the fragrance and depth of flavor.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish with subtle citrus notes.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh cilantro or Thai basil to add a fresh herbal twist right before serving.

How to Make Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp, then pat them dry thoroughly. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispy finish.

Step 2: Season and Coat

Season the shrimp lightly with salt and white pepper. Then, toss them in potato starch or cornstarch until they’re evenly coated but not clumpy.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes each batch, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In a separate pan, briefly stir-fry minced garlic, dried red chilies, and chopped green onions until fragrant, making sure not to burn them.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Add the crispy shrimp back into the aromatics pan. Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly with the garlic-chili mixture and sprinkle additional salt and white pepper if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Moisture prevents the crust from crisping, so be sure to pat dry before coating.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil hot enough to fry, around 350°F (175°C), for a perfect crunch without greasiness.
• Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the shrimp crispy and prevent steaming.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground white pepper delivers the best aroma and flavor.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed just after cooking, while it’s still hot and crispy.

How to Serve Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra chopped green onions, a few fresh chili slices, or some toasted sesame seeds on top for color and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp in a bamboo steamer basket or on a bed of lettuce leaves to make it extra special and visually appealing for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the shrimp will lose some crispiness over time.

Freezing

Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is best fresh, but if necessary, freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer before transferring to a sealed bag. Use within one month for quality.

Reheating

To regain some of the crispiness, reheat shrimp in a dry skillet or oven at medium heat rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Is Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp spicy?

It usually has a mild to moderate heat level from dried chili peppers that can be adjusted to your preferences.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry completely before cooking to ensure a crispy coating.

What is the difference between Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp and other fried shrimp dishes?

This recipe highlights a simple seasoning of salt, white pepper, and aromatics rather than heavy batter or sauces, focusing on crisp texture and aromatic spicing.

Can I bake instead of fry the shrimp?

Frying gives the characteristic crispiness, but baking is possible—coat shrimp well and bake at a high temperature for best results.

What sides go best with this dish?

Steamed rice, sautéed greens, or light salads complement the bold flavors and crunchy texture perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a wonderfully simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors and textures of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite shrimp dish!

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