Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Introduction

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is a sensational appetizer that brings bold flavors and satisfying crunch to every bite. The crispy coating, seasoned with a perfect balance of salt and pepper, gives these shrimp an irresistible texture. The shrimp themselves remain tender and juicy on the inside, creating a delightful contrast with the crispy exterior. The seasoning is simple yet full of flavor, with just the right amount of saltiness and a kick of pepper that elevates the dish.

This dish holds a special place for me, as I first made it for a gathering with friends, and it was an instant hit. The aroma of shrimp frying in the pan, combined with the crackling sound of the crispy coating, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The lightness of the batter and the bold seasoning make each shrimp an addictive snack, and dipping them in a tangy dipping sauce only adds to the fun.

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. The crunch and flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more. It’s best served with a side of dipping sauce—sweet chili or a simple soy-based sauce are great options. If you’re in the mood for something that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, this dish is sure to be a favorite!

Perfect for:

• A crispy, savory appetizer or snack
• A flavorful side dish to complement Asian-inspired meals
• A quick and easy meal for busy weeknights
• Seafood lovers looking for a satisfying and crunchy dish
• A flavorful addition to any party or gathering

Why You’ll Love This Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Here’s why Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is the perfect dish for your next meal:

• Crispy Texture: The shrimp are perfectly coated and fried to achieve a crispy, golden exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the tender, juicy shrimp inside.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients to make this dish. The seasoning of salt and pepper is all you need to bring out the natural flavor of the shrimp.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for a busy evening or an impromptu gathering.
• Flavorful: The combination of salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic delivers a savory, umami-packed flavor that enhances the shrimp without overpowering it.
• Versatile: Serve it as a standalone appetizer, pair it with a dipping sauce, or use it as a topping for salads or bowls.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cornstarch (or rice flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of color and mild flavor)
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For Garnish

• 2-3 fresh Thai bird’s eye chilies or red chili pepper (optional, for added spice)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: Shrimp is a versatile seafood that takes on flavor beautifully and cooks quickly. Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best texture and taste.
• Cornstarch: This is the key to achieving a crispy, light coating on the shrimp. It fries up beautifully and ensures a crunchy texture without being too heavy.
• Seasonings: The combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder creates a simple yet flavorful seasoning mix. You can customize this with more spices or herbs to suit your preferences.
• Chilies and Cilantro: These garnishes provide an extra layer of freshness and spice, which balances the richness of the fried shrimp.
• Lime: Lime wedges are served with the shrimp to add a burst of acidity, which brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preparing the shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed and patted dry with paper towels. This is important to ensure that the batter sticks to the shrimp and prevents splattering when frying. If the shrimp are already peeled and deveined, you can skip those steps.

Once the shrimp are ready, season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. This step helps to enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp before coating them in the crispy batter.

2. Make the Coating

In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir everything together until well combined.

In another shallow dish, crack the egg and beat it until smooth. This will be used to dip the shrimp before coating them in the cornstarch mixture. The egg helps the dry coating stick to the shrimp, ensuring a crisp exterior once fried.

3. Coat the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then transfer it into the cornstarch mixture. Toss the shrimp gently in the coating to ensure it is evenly covered. You can use your fingers or a fork to make sure the shrimp is fully coated in the dry mixture. Set aside the coated shrimp on a plate or tray, ready for frying.

4. Heat the Oil

Heat about 1 to 1 ½ inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the cornstarch mixture into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready for frying.

5. Fry the Shrimp

Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn golden brown and crispy. Flip the shrimp carefully using tongs or a slotted spoon to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

Once the shrimp are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the shrimp crispy and prevent them from becoming soggy.

6. Garnish and Serve

Transfer the crispy shrimp to a serving platter. For an extra burst of flavor, garnish with finely chopped cilantro and thinly sliced red chilies. Serve the shrimp with lime wedges on the side for a touch of acidity and brightness.

These shrimp are best served immediately while still hot and crispy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a tangy garlic-lime sauce, to enhance the flavor.

How to Serve for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and occasion:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the crispy shrimp on their own with a dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or a soy-based dip. This makes a perfect starter for a party or a family dinner.
• With a Side of Vegetables: Pair the shrimp with a fresh vegetable salad or stir-fried greens for a balanced and healthy meal.
• In Tacos: Use the crispy shrimp as a filling for soft corn or flour tortillas. Top with slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema for a seafood taco treat.
• On Rice: Serve the shrimp over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
• With Noodles: Toss the crispy shrimp in a bowl of noodles, such as soba or rice noodles, and add a flavorful sauce for a complete dish.

Additional Tips for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

• Use Fresh Shrimp: If possible, choose fresh shrimp over frozen ones, as they tend to have a better texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the shrimp, it’s important not to overcrowd the pan. Frying the shrimp in batches ensures that each one gets crisp and golden, rather than soggy.
• Control the Heat: Keep an eye on the oil temperature as it can fluctuate during frying. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will burn; if it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Season the Shrimp Before Coating: Lightly seasoning the shrimp with salt and pepper before dipping them in the coating enhances the flavor and ensures that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the shrimp.

Recipe Variations for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

1. Spicy Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick. You can also mix chopped fresh chilies into the batter for added heat.
2. Lemon Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cornstarch mixture and serve the shrimp with lemon wedges for a refreshing citrus twist.
3. Crispy Shrimp with Garlic: Toss the fried shrimp in a mixture of sautéed garlic, butter, and herbs for a more garlicky version of the dish.
4. Coconut Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp: Add shredded coconut to the cornstarch mixture for a tropical twist. The coconut will add both texture and flavor to the crispy shrimp.
5. Gluten-Free Salt and Pepper Shrimp: For a gluten-free option, replace the cornstarch with rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Special Equipment for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

• Large Skillet or Wok: A large skillet or wok is essential for frying the shrimp. It allows the oil to cover the shrimp evenly, ensuring they fry crisply.
• Slotted Spoon or Tongs: These tools are useful for carefully placing the shrimp in the hot oil and flipping them to cook both sides.
• Shallow Dishes: Use shallow dishes for the egg wash and the dry coating mixture. This helps to evenly coat the shrimp and makes the process more efficient.
• Paper Towels: These are needed for draining the excess oil from the shrimp after frying.

FAQ Section for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before frying. Excess moisture can cause the coating to slide off during cooking.
2. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying them?
   Baking is an option if you prefer a lower-fat version of this dish. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the shrimp on a greased baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The shrimp may not be as crispy as when fried, but they’ll still be delicious.
3. What dipping sauces go well with Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp?
   Some great dipping sauces for this dish include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with a little sesame oil, garlic-lime dipping sauce, or a tangy sriracha mayo.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Leftover crispy shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   It’s best to make Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp fresh, as the coating will lose its crispiness over time. However, you can prep the shrimp and coating ahead of time, then fry them just before serving.
6. Can I use a different type of seafood?
   Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other types of seafood, such as scallops or squid, for a variation of this dish. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of seafood you use.

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Conclusion for Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that brings together bold, savory flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. The crispy coating perfectly contrasts with the tender, juicy shrimp, while the balance of salt and pepper enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility; it’s ideal for a quick appetizer, a main dish for dinner, or a flavorful addition to salads and wraps.

The beauty of Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp lies in its ability to elevate any meal with minimal effort, delivering a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Whether served with a dipping sauce or as part of a larger spread, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. I’m excited for you to try it—don’t forget to share your shrimp creations and tag me on social media, I’d love to see how you enjoy it! Enjoy each crispy, flavorful bite!