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Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

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A quick and easy crispy shrimp recipe with a bold salt and pepper flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught if possible)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp white pepper (freshly ground recommended)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup (65g) cornstarch
  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour (or rice flour for gluten-free)
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 2 fresh green chilies, sliced (adjust to heat preference)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 cups (480ml) vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying
  • Optional: fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
  2. In a small bowl, combine salt, white pepper, and black pepper. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch and all-purpose flour until well combined.
  4. Toss shrimp in the flour-cornstarch mixture until each piece is evenly coated. Shake off excess coating.
  5. Pour oil into a wok or deep frying pan and heat over medium-high until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
  6. Carefully add shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per batch until golden and crispy. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or cooling rack.
  7. Remove excess oil from pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add sliced garlic, green chilies, and green onions. Quickly stir-fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
  8. Return fried shrimp to the pan, sprinkle with the seasoning mix, and toss gently to coat evenly.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Keep shrimp dry before coating to ensure crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Use white pepper for authentic flavor. To keep shrimp crispy after frying, drain on a cooling rack and serve immediately or keep warm in a 200°F oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, salt and pepper shrimp, crispy shrimp, Chinese shrimp recipe, quick dinner, easy shrimp recipe, fried shrimp

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/crispy-chinese-salt-and-pepper-shrimp-recipe-easy-homemade-10-minute-dinner/