If you love bold, zingy flavors paired with crispy, succulent shrimp, then you’re going to adore this Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of simple seasonings and a light, crunchy coating that brings out the shrimp’s natural sweetness with every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick appetizer or a standout main dish, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of savory, spicy, and aromatic notes that will have you eager to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe calls for a few staple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch without any fuss. Each element is carefully chosen to add texture, taste, or that unmistakable color that makes this dish visually appealing as well as delicious.
- Large shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined with tails on for the best bite and presentation.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor perfectly.
- White pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and an authentic Chinese flavor, but black pepper works too.
- Chinese five spice powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers warm, aromatic undertones to deepen the seasoning.
- Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Ensures a light, crispy coating on every shrimp.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Serves as the frying medium to get that glorious golden crust.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with savory, fragrant flavor that wakes up the taste buds.
- Green onions (2, thinly sliced): Bring a fresh, mild oniony crunch to the mix.
- Red chili or red pepper flakes (small amount): Adds the perfect touch of heat without overwhelming the shrimp.
- Toasted sesame oil (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A nutty drizzle that finishes the dish elegantly.
- Lemon wedges: For a bright, zesty contrast that balances the richness.
How to Make Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Shrimp
First things first, pat your shrimp dry to help the coating stick better and ensure an incredible crunch. Toss the shrimp with salt, white pepper, and the optional five spice powder to layer in beautiful, authentic flavors before coating them evenly in cornstarch. This seasoning step truly sets the stage for the magic to come.
Step 2: Fry the Shrimp
Heat your vegetable oil in a skillet or wok until it’s shimmering hot—this is key for that crisp, golden finish. Add the shrimp in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for 1 to 2 minutes until irresistibly crispy and golden-brown, then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This step is where the shrimp take on their signature texture.
Step 3: Stir-Fry Aromatics
Using the same pan means you keep all that leftover flavor. If needed, add a bit more oil, then quickly stir-fry the minced garlic, sliced green onions, and chili for about 30 seconds. The aroma that fills your kitchen now is simply irresistible and will make the shrimp even more flavorful when you toss them back in.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the crispy shrimp to the pan and toss everything together for just one minute to marry the flavors perfectly. A drizzle of toasted sesame oil at the end adds an extra layer of depth and that beautiful nutty aroma. It’s the finishing touch that makes this Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe utterly unforgettable.
How to Serve Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few bright lemon wedges on the side instantly uplifts the dish by providing a fresh, tangy contrast to the crispy, seasoned shrimp. Sprinkle extra sliced green onions on top for an added pop of color and mild crunch. You can also toss lightly with some fresh cilantro for herbal brightness.
Side Dishes
This shrimp dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice to soak up all those flavorful pan juices. Alternatively, a simple stir-fried vegetable medley or a crunchy cucumber salad can balance the richness and add refreshing textures to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these shrimp in lettuce cups drizzled with a bit of chili sauce or sweet soy glaze. They also make excellent finger food at parties—arranged on a platter with dipping sauces like garlic mayo or sweet chili for a vibrant appetizer spread everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the shrimp will lose some of their initial crispness, but the flavors will remain just as delightful.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the shrimp, it’s best to do so before frying. Toss the seasoned shrimp in cornstarch as directed, spread them on a baking sheet for flash freezing, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen shrimp can last up to 1 month and be fried straight from the freezer, though freshly cooked shrimp are always best.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the shrimp in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to help regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the shrimp rubbery and soggy, which detracts from the texture that makes this Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them very dry before seasoning and coating for frying. This helps achieve the crisp texture without excess water interfering.
Is Chinese five spice necessary?
Not at all. It’s optional but adds a subtle complexity that’s lovely if you have it on hand. Without it, the dish still tastes fantastic due to the salt, pepper, and aromatics.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is quite mild from the single small chili or red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust by increasing or reducing the chili amount to suit your spice preference.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
While frying achieves the best crispy texture, you can bake the shrimp in a hot oven with a bit of oil, but they won’t be as crunchy. It’s a good option if you want a lighter version.
What’s the best way to get the shrimp really crispy?
Make sure the shrimp are very dry and hot oil is used for frying. For extra crunch, try the double-fry technique: fry, rest, then fry quickly again before tossing with the aromatics and seasonings.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe is a total winner whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a zingy appetizer. It’s surprisingly simple but delivers big on flavor and texture every single time. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that perfect crispy, peppery shrimp goodness for yourself!
Print
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe offers crispy, flavorful shrimp seasoned with salt, white pepper, and optional Chinese five spice powder. Fried to golden perfection and stir-fried with fragrant garlic, green onions, and chili, this dish makes for a delicious appetizer or main course, perfect served hot with lemon wedges and steamed rice.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
- 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
Cooking and Flavoring
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp nicely. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, white pepper, and Chinese five spice powder if using to evenly season. Sprinkle cornstarch over the shrimp and toss until they are well coated with a light dusting.
- Fry the shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn crispy and golden brown. Remove the shrimp from the pan and place them on a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Stir-fry aromatics: In the same pan, add a small splash of oil if needed. Stir-fry the minced garlic, sliced green onions, and chili for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Combine and finish: Return the fried shrimp to the pan and toss everything together for about 1 more minute, allowing the flavors to meld. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil if using for an added nutty aroma and taste.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp hot with lemon wedges on the side, perfect to squeeze over the dish. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or can be served as an appetizer.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice to make a full meal or enjoy as a tasty appetizer.
- For extra crispiness, try double-frying the shrimp by frying them once, letting them rest to drain, then frying again briefly.
- Adjust chili quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Using tails on shrimp helps retain moisture and makes them easier to pick up when eating.
