Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the perfect crunch of fried shrimp with a bold and zesty seasoning. This popular Chinese restaurant favorite is incredibly easy to make at home, delivering a burst of flavors with every bite. Whether you're looking for an impressive appetizer or a tasty main course, this dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 200 g)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, deveined and shells left on
- 1/2 cup (60 g) cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 fresh red chilies, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, white pepper, black pepper, and Chinese five-spice powder.
- Coat the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in the seasoned cornstarch mixture until they are well coated.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels.
- Stir-Fry the Aromatics: In a separate large pan or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced red chilies, and green onions. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine and Serve: Add the fried shrimp to the pan with the aromatics. Toss everything together to evenly coat the shrimp. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Dry Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to ensure the shrimp cook evenly and become crispy without absorbing too much oil.
- Flavor Variations: For extra flavor, you can add a dash of soy sauce or sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use peeled shrimp?
- Yes, you can use peeled shrimp if preferred, but the shells help to protect the shrimp and retain moisture, enhancing the texture and flavor.
What if I don't have Chinese five-spice powder?
- The five-spice powder is optional. You can omit it or substitute it with a pinch of ground ginger and star anise.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven to maintain crispiness.
Savor the irresistible flavors of Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp, a dish that effortlessly marries simplicity with sophistication. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, this recipe is a true testament to the beauty of minimal ingredients and bold seasoning. Add this to your culinary repertoire, and watch it become a favorite for any occasion.