Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

The Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp brings the perfect harmony of bold spices and succulent shrimp. Each bite offers a delightful crunch paired with the nuanced heat of Sichuan and Black Peppercorns. This dish is not only a nostalgic nod to Chinese culinary tradition but also an adaptable recipe perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a tempting appetizer, snack, or main course, these shrimp are guaranteed to captivate taste buds and elevate your dining experience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 18-20 large Shrimp, peeled and deveined, butterfly shape
  • 1 cup Cornstarch
  • 1 long fresh Thai Red Chilli, finely chopped
  • 2 long dried Red Chilies, roughly chopped
  • 2 Green Onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil + Oil for frying
  • Some Coriander for garnish
  • Lime wedges to serve

Marinade:

  • 1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Chinese Cooking Wine
  • 1 Egg, whisked

Salt and Pepper Mix:

  • 1 tbsp Sichuan Peppercorns
  • 1 tbsp Black Peppercorns
  • 1 tbsp Sea Salt

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Salt and Pepper Mix: Toast Sichuan Peppercorns and Black Peppercorns in a frying pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Grind into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. Mix with Sea Salt and set aside.
  2. Marinate the Shrimp: Slice down the back of each Shrimp into a butterfly shape. Mix with Light Soy Sauce, Chinese Cooking Wine, and whisked Egg in a bowl. Marinate for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Coat the Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss Shrimp with Cornstarch, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess starch.
  4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat enough Vegetable Oil in a wok to deep fry the Shrimp. When small bubbles rise from a chopstick, fry Shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden. Drain on a paper towel or wire rack.
  5. Assemble the Dish: In a clean wok, heat 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil. Stir-fry Garlic, Thai Red Chilli, Dried Red Chillies, and Green Onions for a minute. Add fried Shrimp and sprinkle generously with the Salt and Pepper Mix. Toss well.
  6. Serve: Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with chopped Coriander, and serve with Lime wedges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Marinate: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 270 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Exploring the Flavors of Chinese Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is a beloved dish that holds a special place in Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and irresistible crunch. Perfect as an appetizer, a quick snack, or even a main course, this dish combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with the bold and aromatic spice of Sichuan peppercorns and black pepper. The result is a perfectly balanced dish that delights the palate with every bite.

The Legacy and Origins of Salt and Pepper Shrimp

This dish traces its roots to the culinary traditions of Southern China, particularly Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines. The hallmark of this recipe lies in its seasoning—salt and pepper, elevated by the complex and slightly numbing taste of Sichuan peppercorns. Unlike many other shrimp dishes that rely on heavy sauces, Salt and Pepper Shrimp showcases the shrimp’s natural sweetness, enhanced by a dry seasoning mix.

In Chinese culture, shrimp is often associated with happiness and good fortune, making it a popular dish during celebrations and gatherings. The butterfly-cut shrimp used in this recipe not only cooks evenly but also makes for an elegant presentation, often served at banquet-style dinners or festive occasions.

The Art of Achieving Crispy Perfection

The crispy texture of the shrimp is achieved through a simple yet effective coating of cornstarch, which ensures the exterior turns golden and crunchy when fried. The light batter allows the shrimp’s natural flavors to shine without being overpowered by the crust. The use of high heat and quick frying ensures the shrimp remains tender and juicy on the inside.

Another crucial element in this recipe is the wok-frying process, which not only imparts a smoky depth of flavor but also locks in the seasoning. The final toss with garlic, chilies, and green onions adds a layer of aromatic complexity, making every bite a burst of flavor.

The Importance of Fresh, Quality Ingredients

A standout feature of this dish is the emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The shrimp should be fresh, firm, and deveined to achieve the best texture and flavor. Using Sichuan peppercorns and sea salt for the seasoning elevates the dish with a depth of aroma and taste that store-bought mixes simply can’t replicate. Freshly ground peppercorns bring out oils and fragrances that heighten the sensory experience of the dish.

The accompanying garnishes, including coriander and lime wedges, not only enhance the dish visually but also add a fresh, zesty touch to balance the richness of the fried shrimp.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is as versatile as it is flavorful. It can be served as a standalone appetizer, paired with rice or noodles for a complete meal, or even as a topping for a fresh salad for a fusion twist. The spice level can also be adjusted based on preference—adding more chilies for heat lovers or dialing it down for those who prefer milder flavors.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable to dietary preferences. It can easily be made gluten-free by substituting tamari for soy sauce, and those looking for a healthier option can explore air-frying techniques to achieve a similar crunch without deep-frying.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Dish

For home cooks aiming to replicate this dish, a few tips can make all the difference:

  • Butterfly the shrimp properly: This ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
  • Use fresh Sichuan peppercorns: Their numbing heat and citrusy undertones are essential to the flavor profile.
  • Fry in small batches: Overcrowding the wok can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.
  • Season generously: The salt and pepper mix is the star of this dish, so don’t skimp on it!

Why This Dish is a Culinary Favorite

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp resonates with food lovers for its ability to deliver intense flavor with minimal ingredients. The balance between the natural sweetness of the shrimp and the bold, spicy seasoning exemplifies the best of Chinese cooking—simple, fresh, and incredibly satisfying.

For those new to Chinese cuisine, this recipe is an excellent introduction. It’s straightforward enough for beginners while still offering the complex flavors that make Chinese dishes so renowned worldwide. Seasoned cooks will appreciate the versatility and ease with which this dish can be incorporated into a variety of meals.

Conclusion:

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is a dish that beautifully marries tradition with modern culinary appeal. Its origins in Chinese cuisine, emphasis on fresh ingredients, and the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp make it a recipe worth celebrating. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a flavorful meal, this dish is sure to impress.

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