Description

Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a delicious, crunchy seafood dish with a perfect balance of salt, pepper, and aromatic spices. The shrimp are coated in cornstarch, fried to golden perfection, and tossed with a savory seasoning mix for an irresistible flavor. Ideal as an appetizer or main course, this dish is simple to make and sure to impress anyone at the table! 😋🍤

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, shell-on or peeled (tail-on for presentation)
½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for lighter texture)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
1 egg white (optional, for better coating)
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Seasoning:

1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground white pepper
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ teaspoon five-spice powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
For the Garnish & Stir-Fry:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
1 green onion, chopped
½ teaspoon sesame oil (for extra flavor)
Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

If using shell-on shrimp, leave the shell intact for added crispiness or peel and devein if preferred.
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

In a bowl, mix cornstarch, baking powder, salt, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat an egg white (if using).
Toss the shrimp in the egg white, then coat them evenly in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off excess coating.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 375°F (190°C).
Carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd.
Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel.

Step 4: Make the Seasoning & Stir-Fry

In a dry pan, toast the salt, white pepper, and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds to enhance their aroma.
Add sesame oil, minced garlic, and sliced chili. Stir-fry for 20 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add the fried shrimp to the pan and toss quickly with the seasoning mix.
Stir in the chopped green onions and mix well.
Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: Americans

Nutrition

Calories: 280 kcal
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g

Keywords: Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe