The moment you take a bite of Chinese salt and pepper shrimp, the world fades away. Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly seasoned with a symphony of spices that dance on your taste buds like they’ve just won the culinary lottery. The crunchiness of the coating, combined with the zesty explosion of flavor, creates a delightful experience that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish elevates any occasion.
Now picture this: you’re at a bustling dim sum restaurant, surrounded by laughter and clinking chopsticks. The aroma of garlic and sizzling shrimp fills the air as you wait impatiently for your order. That’s the magic of Chinese salt and pepper shrimp—it brings people together. It’s perfect for celebrations or simply trying to impress your mom during her surprise visit. Trust me; every bite promises an unforgettable journey of flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This tasty dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The bold flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Its vibrant colors make it a showstopper on any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or even on its own as a scrumptious appetizer.
Ingredients for Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture; peeled and deveined is ideal.
Cornstarch: This gives the shrimp that irresistible crunch when fried; don’t skip it!
Salt: A key ingredient that enhances all the flavors in the dish; opt for kosher salt if possible.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds depth and warmth to each bite.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch—minced is best.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add color and freshness; use both white and green parts.
Red Chili Peppers: These lend heat and vibrant color; adjust based on your spice preference.
Vegetable Oil: For frying; use an oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing your shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels—nobody likes soggy shrimp! Next, chop your garlic, green onions, and red chili peppers so they’re ready to go when you need them.
Step 2: Create Your Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss those beautiful shrimp into this mixture until they are evenly coated. This step will give them that crispy exterior we all crave!
Step 3: Heat Up the Oil
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom—about half an inch should do it. Let it heat until shimmering but not smoking like you just set off the fire alarm.
Step 4: Fry Those Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about two to three minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through unless you want one side overly bronzed!
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Once your shrimp are crispy perfection, remove them from the pan and drain on paper towels. In that same skillet, toss in garlic, green onions, and red chili peppers—cook until fragrant (around one minute).
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return those glorious shrimp back into the skillet with your sizzling aromatics! Stir well so everything is beautifully combined—this is where magic happens! Transfer to a serving platter immediately.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now you have made Chinese salt and pepper shrimp—a dish bursting with flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds…and thirds! Enjoy this culinary masterpiece accompanied by steamed rice or maybe some cold drinks while you bask in compliments!
You Must Know
- Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience.
- Bursting with flavor and crunch, this seafood delight transforms any dinner into a festive occasion.
- Quick to prepare and highly customizable, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ultimate Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp, start by marinating the shrimp while you prep your ingredients. Next, sear the shrimp in hot oil until crispy, and toss them with garlic, ginger, and spices for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the spices! Instead of traditional seasonings, add a dash of chili flakes for heat or substitute green onions with fresh cilantro. You can also mix in your favorite veggies for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, sauté briefly on medium heat to regain that crispy texture without overcooking the shrimp.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat down shrimp with paper towels before cooking to ensure they sear nicely instead of steaming.
- Use high smoke point oil like grapeseed or peanut for best frying results.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps maintain that delightful crunch.
To this day, I remember the first time I made Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp for friends. Their eyes lit up with each crispy bite, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special!
FAQs:
What is Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a popular dish made with fresh shrimp that are seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, and other spices. This dish often features crispy fried shrimp tossed with aromatic ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and scallions. It’s known for its bold flavors and crunchy texture, making it a favorite in many Chinese restaurants. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine through, creating a delicious meal that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course.
How do I make Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp at home?
To make Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp at home, start by cleaning and deveining fresh shrimp. Marinate them briefly with salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Heat oil in a pan until hot, then fry the shrimp until golden brown. In another pan, stir-fry garlic, ginger, and chopped scallions before adding the fried shrimp. Toss everything together with more salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot for a delightful dish that captures the essence of this beloved cuisine.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp. However, it’s essential to thaw them properly before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thawing method. Ensure they are thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture during frying. By using frozen shrimp, you can still enjoy this delicious dish even if fresh options are unavailable.
What side dishes pair well with Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice that balances the bold flavors of the shrimp. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a light salad for freshness. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing it with fried rice or noodles. These sides complement the dish while providing additional textures and flavors.
Conclusion for Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp:
In summary, Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a delectable dish that combines crispy fried shrimp with aromatic spices for an unforgettable flavor experience. Making this dish at home is straightforward; all you need are fresh or properly thawed shrimp along with basic seasonings. Pairing it with rice or vegetables enhances the meal further. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress anyone who loves bold flavors in their cooking.
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that brings together succulent shrimp coated in a crispy, flavorful shell. Infused with garlic and chili, every bite offers an exciting explosion of taste. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe guarantees irresistible crunchiness and bold flavors that will wow your guests and keep them coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 2 red chili peppers (sliced)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, sauté garlic, green onions, and chili peppers until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the fried shrimp back to the skillet, stir to combine, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 shrimp (100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, consider marinating the shrimp with soy sauce for 15 minutes before coating. - Substitute green onions with fresh cilantro for a different twist. - Adjust the number of red chili peppers based on your spice preference.
