Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe for Flavor Lovers

Salt and pepper shrimp is like a jazz concert for your taste buds, each bite bursting with flavor and fun. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, all seasoned with just the right amount of salt and pepper—it’s a taste explosion that dances on your palate. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. You might find yourself reminiscing about summer nights filled with laughter and good cheer, where this dish takes center stage, bringing everyone together.

Now, let me take you back to that one memorable summer BBQ where I decided to impress friends with my culinary skills (or lack thereof). As I stood over the grill, flipping shrimp like a pro—okay, maybe it was more like juggling—I could feel the excitement in the air. The aroma of sizzling shrimp wafted through the yard, pulling everyone closer like moths to a flame. Trust me; once you try making salt and pepper shrimp at home, you’ll never look at shrimp the same way again!

Ingredients for salt and pepper shrimp

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp; they cook quickly and offer a juicy bite. Make sure they’re deveined for easy eating.
• Salt: Use kosher salt for seasoning; it enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp without overpowering them.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a robust kick that complements the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will give a fragrant aroma that elevates the dish to another level.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions not only add color but also bring a mild onion flavor that balances the heat.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a burst of freshness that brightens up every bite.

For frying:

• Cooking Oil: Use vegetable or peanut oil for deep frying; they have high smoke points perfect for achieving crispy perfection.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make salt and pepper shrimp

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by cleaning your fresh shrimp under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels; this ensures they’ll get crispy when you fry them.

Step 2: Seasoning Time

In a bowl, toss your cleaned shrimp with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper—don’t be shy! Let them marinate while you prepare the frying station.

Step 3: Heat Things Up

In a large frying pan or wok, heat about an inch of cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small piece of bread—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!

Step 4: Fry Away

Carefully place your seasoned shrimp into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about two minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Garlic Goodness

Once cooked, remove the shrimp from oil and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not burnt—about 30 seconds.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the crispy shrimp to the pan along with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Toss everything together quickly so flavors meld beautifully.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

Enjoy your homemade salt and pepper shrimp as an appetizer or serve over rice as a delightful main course! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To get those shrimp perfectly crispy, start by heating your oil until it shimmers like a disco ball. Sear the shrimp in batches, ensuring they have space to dance around the pan. While they cook, prep your garlic and scallions for a flavor-packed finish.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Toss in some red chili flakes for a spicy kick or add a splash of lime juice for brightness. You can also swap out the shrimp for chicken or tofu if you’re looking for variations that still deliver on flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salt and pepper shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to retain that crispy texture instead of using the microwave, which may turn them rubbery.

Sometimes I think back to that dinner party where everyone devoured my salt and pepper shrimp within minutes. The laughter mixed with crunching sounds was music to my ears! It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for salt and pepper shrimp?

To prepare salt and pepper shrimp, you’ll need fresh shrimp, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic, green onions, and chili peppers. These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of the shrimp. You can also add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame oil for extra depth. Remember to choose high-quality shrimp for the best results.

How do I make salt and pepper shrimp crispy?

To achieve crispy salt and pepper shrimp, ensure you coat the shrimp evenly with cornstarch before frying. Heat your oil to the right temperature—around 350°F is ideal—to ensure a quick fry that locks in moisture while creating a crunchy exterior. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for salt and pepper shrimp. However, it’s crucial to thaw them properly before cooking. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water until fully defrosted. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before coating with cornstarch. This step ensures they fry up crispy instead of steaming during cooking.

What can I serve with salt and pepper shrimp?

Salt and pepper shrimp pairs well with several side dishes. Consider serving it over steamed rice or alongside a fresh salad for contrast. You could also serve it with noodles tossed in soy sauce or a simple vegetable stir-fry. For an authentic touch, serve it with dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy sauce mixed with vinegar.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for salt and pepper shrimp

Salt and pepper shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together simplicity and flavor. By selecting fresh ingredients and following proper frying techniques, you can achieve perfectly crispy results every time. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, this recipe allows the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine through. Experiment with different spices or sides to make this dish your own, ensuring it becomes a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

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Salt and Pepper Shrimp

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Savor the delightful crunch of salt and pepper shrimp, where perfectly crispy shrimp meets fresh garlic and vibrant herbs for an irresistible experience.

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Ingredients

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For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound fresh large shrimp, deveined
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Frying:

• 1 cup vegetable or peanut oil

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Instructions

1. 1. Prep the Shrimp
2. – Clean the shrimp under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness when frying.
3. 2. Season the Shrimp
4. – In a bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with kosher salt and black pepper. Let it marinate while you prepare for frying.
5. 3. Heat the Oil
6. – Heat about an inch of vegetable or peanut oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
7. 4. Fry the Shrimp
8. – Carefully add the seasoned shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about two minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
9. 5. Sauté Garlic
10. – Remove the cooked shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels. In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
11. 6. Combine Flavors
12. – Return the crispy shrimp to the pan along with chopped green onions and cilantro. Toss everything together quickly to combine flavors.
13. 7. Serve
14. – Serve immediately as an appetizer or over rice as a flavorful main course.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 pound (113g)
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 150mg