Name: Savory Salt and Pepper Shrimp: Crispy, Delicious, Easy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Whole Peppercorns (Vary flavors with black, white, or Sichuan peppercorns.); 1 tablespoon Sea Salt (Coarse sea salt recommended for texture.); 1 pound Large Shrimp (Deveined; shells optional.); 3 tablespoons Potato Starch or Cornstarch (For crispy coating.); 1/3 cup Oil (High smoke point oil for frying.); 6 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped.); 1 piece Long Hot Green or Red Pepper (Adjust spice level as desired.)

As the sizzle of shrimp hitting hot oil fills the air, I can’t help but smile at the anticipation of a delightful meal. Today, I’m sharing my take on a classic Chinese favorite: Salt and Pepper Shrimp. This dish not only boasts a crispy, salty exterior that makes each bite irresistible, but it also offers a quick prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. With a fragrant homemade seasoning mix and succulent shrimp, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser that rivals your favorite takeout. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this deliciously easy recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Shrimp Recipe a Must-Try?

Crispiness at Its Best: The coating of potato starch or cornstarch ensures a crunchy texture that delights with every bite.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights, this recipe takes minimal time to prepare, making it a fantastic go-to for busy schedules.

Flavor Explosion: With a homemade salt and pepper mix, expect bold flavors that elevate the humble shrimp into something extraordinary.

Versatile Option: Whether paired with rice or served alone as an appetizer, this dish is adaptable for any occasion.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish that’s as easy to make at home as it is delicious. If you love quick, flavorful meals like Chicken Stuffing Casserole, you’ll adore this shrimp recipe!

Salt and Pepper Shrimp Ingredients

For the Salt and Pepper Mixture
• Whole Peppercorns – Vary your flavors by mixing black, white, or Sichuan peppercorns for a unique taste.
• Sea Salt – This enhances the shrimp’s flavor while balancing the spicy notes; opt for coarse sea salt for a better texture.

For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp (1 pound) – Use fresh or thawed shrimp, deveined for optimal taste. You can keep the shells on for added flavor if desired.
• Potato Starch or Cornstarch (3 tablespoons) – Essential for creating that perfect crispy coating; cornstarch is a popular choice for a light, crunchy texture.
• Oil (1/3 cup for frying) – Choose a high smoke point oil like vegetable or peanut oil for frying to achieve that golden crispiness.

For the Aromatics
• Garlic (6 cloves, finely chopped) – Adds a fragrant depth to the dish; fry gently to avoid burning.
• Long Hot Green or Red Pepper (1) – Offers an inviting kick of heat; adjust to your spice preference, or swap with bell peppers for a milder flavor.

Indulge your taste buds with this Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe that’s not only simple but also bursting with flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Salt and Pepper Mixture
Start by roasting 2 tablespoons of whole peppercorns over medium-low heat in a dry skillet for about 15 minutes until they become fragrant. Once roasted, grind the peppercorns into a fine powder. Next, dry roast 1 tablespoon of sea salt until it turns slightly yellow, then let it cool. Combine this with your ground pepper to create the flavorful salt and pepper mixture.

Step 2: Prep the Shrimp
Rinse 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to avoid sogginess. Dredge each shrimp in 3 tablespoons of potato starch or cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crispy texture in your Salt and Pepper Shrimp; set the coated shrimp aside for frying.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Heat 1/3 cup of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Carefully add the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and fry for about 30 seconds on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, drain the shrimp on paper towels and immediately sprinkle them with the prepared salt and pepper mixture for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Aromatics
In the same wok, remove excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Heat the oil over medium heat and add 6 finely chopped garlic cloves, sautéing until they turn golden, which should take about 1 minute. Remove the garlic and set it aside, then add 1 sliced long hot green or red pepper to the wok, stir-frying for about 1-2 minutes until tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the crispy shrimp back into the wok with the sautéed garlic and hot peppers. Toss everything together gently for about 10 seconds on high heat, ensuring the shrimp are coated in the garlic and pepper flavors. Once combined, serve your Salt and Pepper Shrimp immediately, either on its own or alongside some steaming rice, for a delightful meal.

What to Serve with Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Pair your crispy shrimp masterpiece with these delightful sides and drinks that enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Complements the dish’s saltiness and provides a fluffy base to absorb the shrimp’s savory goodness. The subtle aroma of jasmine elevates the meal experience.
Garlic Bok Choy: This stir-fried green offers a satisfying crunch and a mild bitterness, balancing the richness of the shrimp beautifully. It’s quick to prepare and adds vibrant color to your plate.
Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce: A tangy counterpart that cuts through the savory notes of the shrimp, making every bite a joy. It adds a layer of brightness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: With its refreshing crunch and slight acidity, a cucumber salad lightens the dish and keeps it simple yet elegant. Tossed with sesame oil and a splash of rice vinegar, it’s a perfect sidekick.
Coconut Milk Smoothie: For a tropical twist, serve a silky coconut smoothie alongside your meal. Its creamy texture and natural sweetness juxtapose the spiciness of the shrimp, making it a delightful pairing.
Lemonade or Iced Green Tea: These refreshing beverages cleanse the palate between bites, complementing the shrimp without overpowering its flavor. A hint of citrus in lemonade enhances the dish’s saltiness while iced tea adds a soothing element.
Mango Sticky Rice: As a sweet dessert option, this classic Thai dish wraps up your meal perfectly. The sticky rice and ripe mango contrast beautifully with the salty shrimp, leaving a satisfying taste that brightens the dining experience.

How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezer: While best eaten fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 1 month. For best results, lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Reheating: Reheat frozen shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Room Temperature: Serve your Salt and Pepper Shrimp hot, but if you have leftovers, they should not sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Expert Tips for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Drying is Key: Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly dried after rinsing to avoid a soggy texture; moisture can prevent a crispy coating.

• Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; it lowers the oil temperature and leads to uneven cooking rather than the desired crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp.

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on the frying temperature. If it’s too low, the shrimp will absorb oil; if too high, they may burn before cooking through.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground pepper and sea salt enhance flavor significantly. A lack of freshness can result in a dull seasoning blend for your shrimp.

• Avoid Excess Oil: For a “dry” finish, remove excess oil from the wok after stir-frying the aromatics; too much oil can diminish the dish’s appeal.

Salt and Pepper Shrimp Variations

Ready to put your own spin on this delightful dish? Here are some fun ideas to personalize your Salt and Pepper Shrimp!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, for a delicious meat-free twist that holds flavor beautifully.
Spice It Up: Use Thai bird’s eye peppers or jalapeños for a fiery kick that transforms the dish into a heat lover’s dream.
Smoky Flavor: Experiment with smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the seasoning mix for a tantalizing, smoky depth in every bite.
Crispy Vegetables: Toss in some thinly sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or zucchini to the stir-fry for added nutrition and vibrant color.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic to 8 or more cloves, or even roast some and sprinkle them on top for an aromatic boost.
Asian Fusion: Drizzle a bit of sesame oil before serving to add a nutty flavor that complements the shrimp and brings a wonderful finish.
Sweet Twist: Mix in a splash of honey or maple syrup in the stir-fry for a delightful sweet and savory balance that elevates the dish.
Save Leftovers: If you enjoy quick meals, try using leftover shrimp in a simple fried rice dish. Just toss the shrimp with day-old rice, veggies, and soy sauce, similar to what you would do for a stir-fried dish like Baked Mac Cheese for another yummy meal.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect version of Salt and Pepper Shrimp, or even serve it alongside a comforting chicken dish like Chicken Rice Casserole to bring even more variety to the table!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Salt and Pepper Shrimp in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can wash and coat the shrimp in potato starch or cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crispy. The salt and pepper mixture can also be made ahead—just combine the roasted and ground peppercorns with the roasted sea salt and store in a small jar. When you’re ready to cook, heat your oil and fry the shrimp as instructed for restaurant-quality results. Trust me, this simple prep will ensure your meal is just as delicious as if made fresh!

Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using large, fresh or thawed shrimp that have been deveined. Keeping the shells on can add an extra layer of flavor during frying, but peeled shrimp will give you a more tender bite.

How should I store leftover Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Store any leftover Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s important to let the shrimp cool completely before sealing them to prevent condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.

Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze the shrimp! For the best outcome, lay the cooked shrimp flat on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer the shrimp to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 1 month. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispy texture.

How can I ensure my Salt and Pepper Shrimp stays crispy when reheating?
To keep your shrimp crispy during reheating, avoid using the microwave. Instead, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Toss them occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until they’re heated through, which helps to maintain that delightful crunch.

What if my shrimp doesn’t turn out crispy?
Very! If your shrimp aren’t crispy, it may be due to excess moisture. Make sure to thoroughly dry the shrimp after rinsing, and don’t overcrowd the pan while frying, as this lowers the oil temperature. Additionally, ensuring your oil is at the right frying temperature (around 375°F) is critical for achieving that signature crispiness.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, absolutely! This Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe is gluten-free if you use cornstarch for the coating. However, if you have shellfish allergies or are cooking for someone who does, you can easily substitute shrimp with tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.