Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly fried shrimp, its golden crust crackling under your teeth, followed by the juicy sweetness of the seafood itself. When you add the aromatic heat of black pepper, the tingling brightness of salt, and just a hint of garlic and chili, you end up with one of those dishes that makes you stop mid-bite and smile. Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp isn’t just food, it’s a little celebration on a plate.

Behind the Recipe

This dish always takes me back to lively family dinners where the table was filled with laughter and the air buzzed with conversation. Salt and pepper shrimp was often a centerpiece, piled high on a platter, still sizzling, and impossible to resist sneaking one before everyone sat down. Its beauty lies in its simplicity, letting the shrimp shine while just the right amount of seasoning brings everything to life.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Salt and pepper shrimp has its roots in Cantonese cuisine, where deep-fried seafood seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and aromatics became a restaurant favorite. Over time, it spread across Chinese banquet tables and later became a beloved dish in takeout spots around the world. Traditionally, the shrimp are fried with the shell on to capture extra crunch and flavor, though many home cooks opt for peeled versions for easier eating.

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Why You’ll Love Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

It’s more than just delicious—it’s versatile and fun to make.

Versatile: Works as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a snack with drinks.
Budget-Friendly: A handful of shrimp and pantry staples create something restaurant-worthy.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Customizable: Adjust spice levels, add aromatics, or change the dipping sauces.
Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy, flavorful, and shareable—what’s not to love?
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the shrimp in advance so frying is quick and stress-free.
Great for Leftovers: Toss them into fried rice or salads for a second meal.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Getting that irresistible crunch and balance of flavor is all about a few small tricks.

1. Use cornstarch for coating—it creates the crispiest crust without being heavy.
2. Pat the shrimp very dry before frying to avoid sogginess.
3. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
4. Season while the shrimp are hot so the salt and pepper cling better.
5. For extra depth, toast the peppercorns lightly before grinding.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this dish easy and enjoyable, here’s what you’ll want at hand:

• Wok or Deep Frying Pan: Provides enough space for even frying.
• Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: Helps remove shrimp quickly from the hot oil.
• Mixing Bowls: For coating shrimp and mixing aromatics.
• Paper Towels: To drain excess oil and keep shrimp crisp.
• Sharp Knife: For prepping garlic, scallions, and chili.

Ingredients in Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

The magic of this recipe lies in simple ingredients working together in harmony.

1. Large Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined, the star of the dish with sweet brininess.
2. Cornstarch: 1/2 cup, coats the shrimp for an ultra-crisp texture.
3. Salt: 1 teaspoon, enhances natural sweetness of the shrimp.
4. Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, gives that signature warm bite.
5. Garlic: 3 cloves, finely minced, brings aromatic depth.
6. Red Chili: 1 small, thinly sliced, adds a gentle heat.
7. Scallions: 2 stalks, chopped, for freshness and mild onion flavor.
8. Neutral Oil: 2 cups, for frying without overpowering flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you need to swap things out, and that’s perfectly fine.

Cornstarch: Potato starch or rice flour.
Red Chili: Jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes.
Shrimp: Prawns or even small pieces of squid.
Neutral Oil: Canola or sunflower oil.

Ingredient Spotlight

Shrimp: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory salt and the warmth of black pepper, creating balance in every bite.
Black Pepper: More than just seasoning, freshly ground pepper adds citrusy, floral, and spicy notes that carry the whole dish.

Instructions for Making Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Cooking this dish is as fun as it is rewarding—here’s how you’ll bring it all together.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, toss shrimp with salt, pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Line a plate with paper towels for draining fried shrimp.
4. Assemble the Dish: Gently lower coated shrimp into the hot oil in small batches.
5. Cook to Perfection: Fry for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy, then remove with a slotted spoon.
6. Finishing Touches: In a clean pan, quickly sauté garlic, chili, and scallions, then toss the shrimp back in to coat.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate immediately and enjoy while still hot and crunchy.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

What makes this dish so irresistible is the contrast: the shrimp’s delicate, juicy interior encased in a shatteringly crisp crust. The garlic and chili add bursts of savory heat, while scallions bring freshness. The salt and pepper tie everything together with a flavor that lingers delightfully on your tongue.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A little encouragement goes a long way when frying at home.

• Keep shrimp size uniform for even cooking.
• Double-fry if you want extra crunch.
• Use freshly ground pepper for maximum aroma.

What to Avoid

To keep your shrimp perfect, here are some pitfalls to sidestep.

• Overcrowding the pan, which lowers oil temperature.
• Skipping the drying step, which leads to soggy coating.
• Overfrying, which makes shrimp rubbery.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is best served hot, but you can prep the shrimp ahead of time by cleaning and coating them with cornstarch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness.

How to Serve Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Serve these beauties as part of a family-style meal alongside steamed rice, sautéed greens, or stir-fried noodles. For a more playful presentation, pair them with a dipping sauce like chili oil, sweet soy, or a squeeze of lime.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers don’t have to be boring—turn them into something new.

• Chop and toss into fried rice.
• Add to a crisp green salad.
• Use as a filling for shrimp tacos with slaw.

Additional Tips

For even more flavor, marinate the shrimp in a touch of soy sauce before coating. To keep oil clean, strain it after frying and reuse for another batch.

Make It a Showstopper

Pile the shrimp high on a serving platter, garnish with extra scallions and chili slices, and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh pop of color. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving makes it shine like a restaurant dish.

Variations to Try

• Add Sichuan peppercorns for a numbing, citrusy twist.
• Toss with crispy fried basil leaves for a fragrant surprise.
• Try with soft shell crab for a luxurious version.
• Make it lighter by air frying instead of deep frying.

FAQ’s

Q1. Can I leave the shells on the shrimp?

Yes, leaving shells on adds crunch and flavor, though it makes them a little messier to eat.

Q2. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Absolutely, just coat lightly with oil spray and cook at 400°F for about 8 minutes.

Q3. What type of shrimp works best?

Large, fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen (thawed) shrimp work well too.

Q4. Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, simply omit or reduce the chili.

Q5. Do I need to devein shrimp for this recipe?

It’s recommended for cleaner flavor, though not mandatory.

Q6. How do I know when shrimp are done?

They turn pink, opaque, and slightly curled when cooked through.

Q7. What oil is best for frying shrimp?

Neutral oils like canola or sunflower are perfect.

Q8. Can I use prawns instead of shrimp?

Yes, prawns work beautifully with the same method.

Q9. How do I keep shrimp crispy after frying?

Place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent steam buildup.

Q10. Can I freeze cooked shrimp?

You can, but texture suffers. It’s best eaten fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Conclusion

Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is proof that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create something extraordinary. Each bite offers crunch, tenderness, and a spark of seasoning that keeps you coming back for more. Trust me, this one’s a total game-changer—and once you make it at home, you’ll see why it’s worth every bite.

Discover the simple steps to making Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp