Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe: Quick, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

If you’re a fan of seafood, then you’re in for a treat with this Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe. This dish is a true testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a vibrant, crunchy, and utterly delicious meal. Perfectly fried shrimp, seasoned with salt, black pepper, and a medley of other spices, make for a crispy, flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for more.

Whether you’re looking to serve it as an appetizer or as part of a main course, Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is versatile, easy to prepare, and undeniably tasty. The shrimp are coated with cornstarch to achieve that irresistible crispness, and they’re tossed with sautéed garlic, green onions, and optional chili for an extra punch of flavor. A drizzle of soy sauce can take it to the next level, adding a savory richness that complements the shrimp perfectly.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp, offer tips on how to achieve the crispiest shrimp, and explore some possible variations and sides that go perfectly with this dish. We’ll also dive deep into the health benefits of shrimp and why they make such a great addition to your diet.

So, let’s get cooking and learn how to make this Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp that will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why Choose Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

Shrimp is one of the most popular types of seafood, and for a good reason. It’s quick to cook, versatile in flavor, and packed with nutrients. The best part? Shrimp can take on a variety of seasonings and cooking methods, making it suitable for all kinds of dishes. The combination of crispy, golden shrimp with a burst of flavor from salt, pepper, and garlic creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.

Here are some reasons why Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a must-try:

Quick and Easy to Make

One of the standout qualities of this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and a simple process, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen.

Perfectly Crispy Texture

The use of cornstarch in the coating ensures that the shrimp come out incredibly crispy. Unlike regular breadcrumbs or flour, cornstarch gives a lighter, crunchier texture that’s not too heavy. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy shrimp inside, creating the perfect bite.

Flavorful and Customizable

The seasoning blend for Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is simple but full of flavor. The salt and pepper bring out the natural taste of the shrimp, while the addition of garlic powder, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes adds layers of depth. You can adjust the level of heat with the red pepper flakes or chili for a milder or spicier version depending on your preference.

Healthy and Nutritious

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in fat, and rich in important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and iodine. It’s also quick to cook, so you retain more of the nutrients compared to longer cooking methods. When paired with a light soy sauce drizzle and fresh green onions, this dish makes for a healthy meal or snack that you can enjoy guilt-free.

Ingredients for Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

To make Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp, you don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients. This recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it easy to prepare without requiring a trip to the specialty store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp (shell-on, deveined) – The shrimp should be large and fresh for the best results. The shell adds to the crispy texture, so keep it on for extra crunch.
• ½ cup cornstarch – This is the key to getting that crispy exterior. Cornstarch coats the shrimp evenly and helps them fry up crisp and golden.
• 1 tsp salt – Salt enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp and brings out the savory qualities of the other seasonings.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Black pepper adds a mild, earthy heat to the dish.
• ½ tsp white pepper – White pepper has a slightly different flavor than black pepper, offering a gentler spice. It’s often used in Asian cuisine for its subtler, less pungent heat.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – Garlic powder imparts a savory, aromatic quality to the shrimp without the need for fresh garlic.
• ½ tsp paprika – Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a rich red color to the shrimp.
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who like it spicy, red pepper flakes can provide a nice kick.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying) – Vegetable oil is ideal for frying because of its high smoke point, ensuring your shrimp fry without burning.
• 3 garlic cloves (minced) – Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that perfectly complements the fried shrimp.
• 1 small red chili (sliced, optional) – A red chili will give an extra level of spice and heat, adding depth to the flavor.
• 2 green onions (chopped) – Green onions offer freshness and a mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the shrimp.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor) – Soy sauce is optional but can be used for an added layer of umami, making the dish even more savory.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! The process is simple and easy to follow, so let’s dive into the details of how to make Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. It’s important to dry the shrimp thoroughly before coating them, as excess moisture can prevent the cornstarch from adhering properly. Keeping the shells on adds an extra layer of crunch and flavor during frying, so don’t remove them.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

In a shallow bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture until evenly combined.

Toss the shrimp in this dry mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess coating before frying to avoid clumps.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a small bit of cornstarch into the oil – if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully place the shrimp in the pan. Fry the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Once cooked, remove the shrimp and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, remove any excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the minced garlic, sliced red chili (if using), and chopped green onions. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and the chili softens slightly.

Step 5: Final Toss & Serve

Add the crispy shrimp back into the pan and toss them with the garlic, chili, and green onion mixture. If desired, drizzle with soy sauce for added flavor and umami.

Serve the Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp immediately with steamed rice or as an appetizer. Garnish with extra green onions and enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!

Tips for Perfect Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

To ensure your Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

1. Dry the Shrimp Well: Moisture is the enemy of crispy shrimp. Make sure your shrimp are as dry as possible before coating them in the cornstarch mixture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures that each shrimp gets evenly cooked and crispy.
3. Use High Heat: To get that crispy texture, make sure the oil is hot before adding the shrimp. Medium-high heat works best for frying shrimp.
4. Customize the Heat: If you like more spice, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or sliced chili to the dish. You can also adjust the amount of black and white pepper to suit your taste.
5. Soy Sauce for Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, a small drizzle of soy sauce after the shrimp are cooked will give the dish a savory umami finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry thoroughly.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp fresh, you can prep the shrimp and dry ingredients in advance. Fry them just before serving for the best crispiness.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use a hotter variety of chili pepper, like Thai bird’s eye chili or jalapeño.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free cornstarch or flour substitute in place of regular cornstarch.

5. What can I serve with Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a light salad. You can also serve it as a side dish or appetizer to complement a larger meal.

Conclusion

Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is an irresistible dish that combines the perfect crunch with bold, savory flavors. With its quick preparation, delicious seasoning, and healthy profile, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite for seafood lovers. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

So, next time you’re craving something crispy and flavorful, give this Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe a try. With just a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor.

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