Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the briny sweetness of shrimp with a bold, savory seasoning of salt, pepper, and aromatic spices. Lightly coated and fried to golden perfection, these shrimp are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with a satisfying punch of flavor. The addition of garlic, green onions, and optional chili peppers adds a fragrant heat and color, making this dish perfect as an appetizer or light main course. Serve it with rice or a side of vegetables for a simple, delicious meal that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, shell-on and deveined
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp white pepper (optional, for extra flavor)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional, for heat)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with cornstarch, ensuring they’re lightly coated.
- Season the Shrimp: In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, and white pepper (if using). Set aside.
- Fry the Shrimp: In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, discard most of the oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the minced garlic, green onions, and sliced chili peppers (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine and Season: Return the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with the salt and pepper mixture, and toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasonings and aromatics.
- Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges.
Enjoy this flavorful Salt and Pepper Shrimp, crispy and savory with a hint of spice, perfect for any occasion!
