Go Back
Recipe for Pepper and Salt Shrimp

Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

This quick and easy salt and pepper shrimp recipe delivers crispy, golden shrimp with a light kick of spice, ready in just 20 minutes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs or slotted spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Plate or tray for draining
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on optional
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper fresh cracked preferred
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper optional but recommended
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 4 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 2 small red chilies sliced (or 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes)
  • 2 green onions finely chopped
  • ½ cups Vegetable oil for frying
  • Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Shrimp
    Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick and ensures a crisp texture.
  • Coat the Shrimp
    In a bowl, toss shrimp with cornstarch until evenly coated. Shake off excess.
  • Heat the Oil
    In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. It’s ready when a tiny bit of cornstarch sizzles on contact.
  • Fry the Shrimp
    Working in batches, fry shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Sauté Aromatics
    Pour out most of the oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and chilies, stir-fry for 20–30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let the garlic burn).
  • Season and Toss
    Return the shrimp to the pan. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and white pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
  • Finish and Serve
    Remove from heat. Top with chopped green onions and serve immediately, with lime wedges on the side if you like.

Video

Notes

  • Use fresh cracked black pepper for the best flavor - it makes a big difference.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying - do it in batches so the oil stays hot.
  • No white pepper? Just use a bit more black pepper.
  • For extra crispiness, let the coated shrimp rest for 5 minutes before frying.
  • You can air fry at 400°F for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, if avoiding oil.
Keyword Salt, Shrimp