Crispy Salt Pepper Shrimp

Master crispy salt and pepper shrimp with this authentic recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

Quick Answer: Make crispy salt and pepper shrimp by coating fresh shrimp in cornstarch, then flash-frying at 375°F for 2-3 minutes until golden. Season with a fragrant mixture of ground white pepper, sea salt, and aromatic fried garlic and chilies.

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Category: Main Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Chinese

Yield: 4 servings

Dietary: Dairy-free

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly crispy exterior with juicy, tender shrimp inside
Ready in under an hour with minimal ingredients
Restaurant-quality results at a fraction of the cost
Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
Great for special occasions or quick weeknight dinners

Quick Benefits

Crispy salt and pepper shrimp delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The cornstarch coating creates a light, crispy shell while protecting the succulent shrimp inside. Simple ingredients transform into an impressive dish.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small fresh chili pepper, sliced (optional for heat)
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss the shrimp in the mixture, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and sliced chili pepper. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the fried shrimp back into the skillet and toss them with the garlic, chili, and any leftover seasonings. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions. Serve hot.

You Must Know

Don’t skip patting the shrimp dry – moisture prevents crispiness
Maintain oil temperature between 365-375°F for optimal results
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying
Test oil temperature with a wooden chopstick – bubbles should form steadily
Shell-on shrimp can be used for extra crunch

Serving Suggestions

Steamed jasmine rice
Stir-fried vegetables
Chinese hot and sour soup
Cucumber salad
Cold Chinese beer

Creative Variations

Add Sichuan peppercorns for numbing heat
Use squid or scallops instead of shrimp
Add five-spice powder to the seasoning mix
Include fried jalapeños for extra heat

Cultural Notes

Salt and pepper shrimp is a beloved Cantonese dish commonly found in Chinese restaurants worldwide. The technique of coating seafood in cornstarch before frying is a hallmark of Cantonese cuisine, allowing the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine while creating a delicate, crispy exterior.

Pro Tips

Use fresh, not frozen shrimp for best results
Butterfly larger shrimp for even cooking
Double-coat shrimp for extra crispiness
Season immediately after frying while still hot
Use freshly ground white pepper for best flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make crispy salt and pepper shrimp without deep frying?
A: While deep frying gives the best results, you can air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway.

Q: What’s the best type of shrimp to use?
A: 16/20 count shrimp work best, but any large shrimp will do.

Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: It’s best served immediately, but you can prep ingredients ahead.

Q: Why use white pepper instead of black?
A: White pepper provides traditional flavor and doesn’t leave black specks.

Q: How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
A: Ensure shrimp are completely dry and oil is hot enough before frying.

Health Benefits

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. This preparation method requires minimal oil when done properly, and the dish is naturally low in carbohydrates. The garlic and chilies add beneficial compounds and antioxidants.

Nutrition

(Per serving, estimate) Calories: 220 • Carbs: 12g • Protein: 24g • Fat: 9g • Sodium: 890mg

Notes

Serve immediately for best texture and temperature. Leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven but won’t be as crispy as fresh.