Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is a beloved Chinese classic known for its golden, crunchy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. Marinated in a simple mix of soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, and egg, then fried to perfection and tossed in a homemade salt and pepper blend, this dish packs bold, addicting flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Shrimp & Marinade:

18–20 large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied (tails on)
1 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine
1 egg, whisked

Coating & Frying:

1 cup cornstarch
Vegetable oil (for deep frying + 1 tbsp for stir-frying)

Salt & Pepper Mix:

1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
1 tbsp black peppercorns
1 tbsp sea salt

Aromatics & Garnish:

1 Thai red chili, finely chopped
2 dried red chilies, roughly chopped
2 green onions, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Directions

Make the Salt & Pepper Mix: Toast Sichuan and black peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Grind into powder and mix with sea salt. Set aside.
Marinate the Shrimp: Butterfly the shrimp and place in a bowl. Add soy sauce, cooking wine, and whisked egg. Mix and marinate for 10–15 minutes.
Coat the Shrimp: Place cornstarch in a large bowl. Add marinated shrimp with a bit of marinade and toss to coat. Shake off excess starch.
Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a wok on high heat. Test readiness with a chopstick—small bubbles should appear. Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Assemble the Dish: In a clean wok, heat 1 tbsp oil. Stir-fry garlic, Thai chili, dried chilies, and green onions for 1 minute. Add shrimp and toss with generous salt and pepper mix.
Serve: Transfer to a plate, garnish with coriander and lime wedges. Squeeze lime over shrimp before eating for extra brightness.

Nutrients (Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~300
Protein: ~25g
Fat: ~16g
Carbohydrates: ~15g
Sodium: ~600mg
Fiber: ~1g

A Classic Dish with Regional Roots

While variations of salt and pepper dishes can be found across Chinese cuisine, Salt and Pepper Shrimp (or Salt and Pepper Prawns) is particularly popular in Cantonese and Sichuan cooking. The combination of bold spices and simple frying technique results in a dish that’s both humble and extravagant. In Chinese cooking, shrimp is often seen as a festive food, commonly served at celebrations for its bright color and auspicious symbolism. The technique of coating in cornstarch and flash-frying produces an exceptionally crispy crust that shatters with each bite, while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s no surprise this dish has become a go-to favorite both in restaurants and home kitchens.

The Role of the Marinade

The marinade used in Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is deceptively simple but essential for flavor. Soy sauce and Chinese cooking wine add umami and depth, while the egg binds the marinade to the shrimp and helps the cornstarch stick evenly during coating. This quick marinade ensures the shrimp are seasoned from the inside out, creating a rich and flavorful bite even before the final toss in spices. Marinating the shrimp for just 10 to 15 minutes enhances their taste without breaking down the texture, making them perfect for frying.

Cornstarch for the Ultimate Crunch

A key element of this recipe is the use of cornstarch as the sole coating for the shrimp. Unlike heavier batters or flour coatings, cornstarch creates a light, crisp shell that allows the natural flavor of the shrimp to shine through. When fried at high heat, it gives the shrimp a delicate, golden finish that doesn’t feel greasy or dense. The shrimp stay crunchy even after being tossed with aromatics and seasoning, offering a satisfying texture contrast with every bite. This technique is common in many Asian fried dishes and is ideal for creating that restaurant-style crispiness at home.

Mastering the Salt and Pepper Mix

The salt and pepper blend is the heart and soul of this dish. It’s not just about seasoning—it’s about layering flavor. The mix starts by toasting Sichuan and black peppercorns to bring out their oils and aromatic complexity. Grinding them into a powder and combining them with sea salt creates a punchy seasoning that elevates the shrimp to another level. Sichuan peppercorns in particular bring a signature numbing spice, adding a tingling sensation that pairs perfectly with the heat of the chilies and the savory shrimp. It’s a balance of spice, warmth, and saltiness that creates an explosion of flavor in every mouthful.

Aromatics That Make It Sing

Once the shrimp are fried, they’re quickly tossed with a mix of garlic, green onions, Thai red chilies, and dried red chilies. This stir-fry step infuses the dish with bold aromatics and a touch of heat. Garlic adds richness and depth, while the chilies bring sharp spice and color. The green onions add freshness and a slight sweetness that balances the other ingredients. This final toss not only enhances the flavor but ensures that every shrimp is coated in a medley of spices and herbs. It’s a fast step that transforms the fried shrimp into a layered and aromatic dish that stimulates all the senses.

Bright, Fresh Finishing Touches

Though the base flavors of this dish are bold and savory, the finishing garnishes are what bring freshness and visual appeal. Chopped coriander, or cilantro, adds a herbaceous, slightly citrusy note that brightens up the richness of the fried shrimp. Lime wedges served on the side offer a burst of acidity that cuts through the salt and spice, enhancing the overall flavor and balancing the dish. A squeeze of lime over the top before serving lifts the whole plate, giving it that fresh, zesty kick that makes you go back for more.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp isn’t just a restaurant favorite—it’s a flexible recipe that fits almost any dining situation. It can be served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a flavorful party finger food, or a bold main course paired with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles. It’s perfect for sharing and often disappears as quickly as it’s plated. The beautiful presentation, sizzling aroma, and bold flavor profile make it a dish that impresses guests without requiring overly complex preparation.

A Dish That Invites Creativity

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp becomes a canvas for creativity. You can adjust the heat by adding more Thai chilies or include bell peppers for a colorful, milder variation. For a twist, try tossing the shrimp with a hint of five-spice powder or a splash of rice vinegar for acidity. You can also substitute shrimp with squid, chicken, tofu, or cauliflower for equally satisfying results. The base technique of marinating, coating, frying, and tossing with a bold spice blend works across a range of proteins and vegetables, giving you plenty of room to explore and make it your own.

Nutritionally Balanced Indulgence

Despite being a fried dish, Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp can be a balanced choice when enjoyed in moderation. Shrimp is a lean source of high-quality protein and is low in calories and saturated fat. The use of cornstarch keeps the coating light, and the aromatics provide added nutrients and antioxidants. Cooking at high heat allows the shrimp to cook quickly and absorb less oil, especially when drained properly after frying. Paired with a fresh salad or simple steamed greens, this dish fits comfortably into a balanced meal while still feeling indulgent.

Conclusion

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is the kind of recipe that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something memorable. It’s bold, crispy, and packed with addictive flavor, thanks to a perfectly balanced seasoning blend and an easy frying method that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. From the flavorful marinade to the aromatic stir-fry finish, every layer adds something special to the dish. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quick weeknight indulgence, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Once you take that first crunchy, spicy, juicy bite, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite across cultures—and why you’ll want to make it again and again.

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