You're gonna love this classic Cantonese dish! Salt and pepper shrimp is super tasty, with a crunchy outside and juicy inside. It all starts with freshly caught shrimp seasoned to perfection with a blend of salt, pepper, and spices. When you fry them up, the shrimp get nice and crispy – it's an explosion of savory, salty, and slightly spicy flavors. You can serve it as an appetizer or main course, and it pairs great with rice or noodles. Sound good? Just wait till you see the detailed recipe and cooking steps – this is definitely becoming your new favorite!
Key Takeaways
- Salt and pepper shrimp is a classic Cantonese dish featuring crispy, flavorful shrimp with a perfect balance of savory, salty, and slightly spicy flavors.
- The dish originated from coastal regions of southern China, where fishermen seasoned freshly caught shrimp with salt, pepper, and spices, and it later spread across China.
- The recipe involves coating shrimp with a seasoning blend of salt and pepper, and then frying them at high temperature to create a crunchy exterior and tender interior.
- Salt and pepper shrimp can be served as an appetizer or a main course, and it is often paired with steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions, and accompanied by a dipping sauce.
- The dish is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contains healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for family dinners or gatherings.
History
Salt and pepper shrimp has a long and storied history, tracing its origins back to the coastal regions of southern China. For centuries, local fishermen would season their freshly caught shrimp with a blend of salt, pepper, and other aromatic spices, creating a delightful flavor profile that would become beloved throughout the region.
As trade and cultural exchange increased, this simple yet delicious dish spread across China and eventually made its way to kitchens around the world.
Today, salt and pepper shrimp is a staple in Chinese restaurants, showcasing the incredible versatility of this humble ingredient. Whether it’s the spicy and savory flavors of Szechuan cuisine or the subtle and delicate taste of Cantonese dishes, salt and pepper shrimp has found a place in nearly every regional cuisine in China. From street food stalls to high-end dining establishments, this dish has become a beloved favorite among locals and tourists alike. For those looking to explore the diverse world of Chinese shrimp dishes, be sure to try out our delicious Kung Pao Shrimp recipe for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, the combination of crispy, seasoned shrimp and the complex interplay of salty, peppery, and sometimes citrusy notes never fails to delight the senses.
It's a true testament to the enduring power of culinary traditions and the joy of exploring new flavors.
Recipe
Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a classic Cantonese dish that features plump, juicy shrimp coated in a crispy, flavorful seasoning. This recipe captures the perfect balance of savory, salty, and slightly spicy flavors.
The key to achieving the perfect texture is to fry the shrimp at a high temperature, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender, succulent interior. The combination of salt, pepper, and aromatic spices infuses the shrimp with an irresistible flavor that will have your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
Instructions:
In a large wok or deep-fryer, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and toss them with the cornstarch until evenly coated.
Fry the shrimp in batches for 1-2 minutes, or until they're golden and crispy. Drain the shrimp on a paper towel-lined plate.
In a small bowl, combine the salt, white pepper, and Sichuan peppercorns (if using). Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the fried shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
Garnish with the minced garlic and chopped green onions.
Serve the salt and pepper shrimp immediately, while they're hot and crispy. Enjoy this delightful dish as an appetizer or a main course, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Steps
First, you'll need to devein and shell the shrimp.
Next, mix the salt and pepper in a bowl.
Then, coat the shrimp with the seasoning mixture.
Heat up some oil in a pan, and fry the shrimp until they're crispy.
Yum, can't wait to dig in!
Step 1. Devein and Shell Shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact. This will give your dish a fancy look!
Gently use a small, sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the back of each shrimp. This will help you remove that pesky vein – you know, the dark line that runs down the back. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
Now, grab the shrimp and peel off the shells, starting from the tail and working your way up. The tails will stay on, adding a nice presentation.
Rinse the deveined, peeled shrimp under cool water to wash away any bits of shell or vein. Pat them dry with paper towels so they're ready for the next step.
With the shrimp prepared, you're one step closer to creating a delightfully crunchy and flavorful salt and pepper shrimp dish. Yum!
Step 2. Mix Salt and Pepper
With the shrimp prepped, you'll want to create a simple seasoning blend. In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. The salt and pepper will work together to bring out the natural, sweet flavor of the shrimp.
Next, sprinkle the seasoning mix all over the shrimp, making sure to get it on both sides. Gently rub the seasoning into the shrimp so it sticks nicely. Don't be afraid to use your fingers – the hands are the best tools for this job!
This step is key to ensuring the shrimp are evenly coated and ready to sizzle.
Once the shrimp are well-seasoned, you're almost ready to start cooking. Just make sure your pan is hot and your oil is ready to go. With the shrimp prepped and seasoned, you'll have a delicious batch of salt and pepper shrimp in no time!
Step 3. Coat Shrimp With Seasoning Mixture
Next, generously sprinkle the salt and pepper seasoning mixture all over the shrimp, making sure to evenly coat both sides.
You'll want to get that flavor-packed seasoning on every inch of the shrimp so they're bursting with tasty goodness in every bite. Use your fingers to gently rub the mixture into the shrimp, ensuring it sticks nicely.
Don't be shy – you want those shrimp coated nice and thick! Once they're fully coated, give the shrimp a little shake to remove any excess seasoning. This'll help it stick better when you start cooking.
Now they're ready to sizzle up in the pan! The key is getting that coating to become delightfully crispy and golden brown.
Can't you just imagine the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the kitchen? Get ready for the most irresistible salt and pepper shrimp you've ever tasted!
Step 4. Heat Oil in Pan
Now, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once it's nice and hot, add a couple tablespoons of vegetable or peanut oil. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly.
You'll want the oil to get shimmery – that's how you know it's ready for the shrimp!
Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the hot oil. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the shrimp won't brown properly. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping only once, until they're golden-brown and slightly crispy.
The shrimp should release easily from the pan when ready to flip. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Remove the cooked shrimp to a plate and repeat with any remaining shrimp. The high heat sears in the flavors and creates an amazing texture.
Get ready for some seriously tasty shrimp!
Step 5. Fry Shrimp Until Crispy
After heating the oil, carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the hot pan. Sizzle, sizzle! The shrimp will start to turn golden brown as they cook.
Gently stir and flip the shrimp with your trusty tongs to ensure they get evenly crispy on all sides. You'll know they're ready when they're a lovely shade of pink and have a satisfying crunch to them.
Keep a close eye on the shrimp, as they can go from perfectly crispy to overcooked in the blink of an eye. Once they reach the golden-brown perfection you're looking for, quickly transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. This will help maintain that irresistible crispiness.
Now, you're ready to serve up your delicious salt and pepper shrimp! Sprinkle on a bit more salt and pepper if needed, then dig in and enjoy the incredible flavors and textures. Mmm, so good!
Final Thoughts
With a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, the salt and pepper shrimp dish is a true culinary delight.
You'll find yourself reaching for more of these delectable morsels, unable to resist their irresistible combination of savory, spicy, and crispy goodness.
The key to this recipe's success lies in the perfect balance of seasonings and the careful attention to frying the shrimp until they're golden brown and utterly irresistible.
Whether you're serving it as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
The vibrant colors and satisfying textures make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
So why not give this salt and pepper shrimp a try?
With its exceptional flavor and easy-to-follow instructions, it's a recipe that's sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salt and Pepper Shrimp Suitable for Vegetarians?
No, salt and pepper shrimp is not suitable for vegetarians. As a dish containing seafood, it does not meet the dietary requirements of vegetarians, who avoid all animal-based products including fish and shellfish.
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Refrigerator?
Leftover dishes can typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. However, the actual shelf life may vary depending on the specific ingredients and how you've prepared the dish.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
You can definitely use frozen shrimp instead of fresh. Frozen shrimp will work just as well in your recipe. Just be sure to thaw it properly before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Is This Dish Spicy, and Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, this dish can be quite spicy. But you can adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less of the seasonings, like the black pepper and cayenne pepper. Just taste as you go and tweak it to your liking.
Can I Substitute the Shrimp for Other Types of Seafood?
You can absolutely substitute the shrimp for other types of seafood in this dish. Feel free to experiment with scallops, calamari, or even firm white fish to find your perfect seafood combination.
Li Wei is an authentic Chinese cooking expert specializing in regional and classic Chinese dishes. From hand-pulled noodles to delicate dim sum and traditional stir-fries, his culinary expertise showcases the variety of Chinese cuisine. Li Wei’s recipes emphasize simplicity, tradition, and rich, flavorful sauces.
