Name: Savory Salt Pepper Shrimp in 20 Minutes or Less
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 450 g Large Shrimp (Fresh or frozen, deveined); 3 tbsp Potato Starch or Cornstarch (For crispy coating); Whole Peppercorns (Use white or black pepper if needed); Sea Salt (Kosher or flaky for extra crunch); 1/3 cup Oil (High smoke point oils like canola or vegetable); 6 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped); Long Hot Green or Red Pepper (Milder or hotter varieties based on preference)

Salt Pepper Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines crispy shrimp with bold flavors, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal. The blend of spices and the crispy coating on the shrimp creates an irresistible taste that will have your family and friends asking for more. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying dish that captures the essence of Asian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Salt Pepper Shrimp

This recipe not only serves as a delicious main dish but also offers numerous benefits:

Quick preparation time—ready in just 20 minutes.
Perfectly crispy texture thanks to the starch coating.
Bold flavors from freshly ground peppercorns and garlic.
Customizable heat level with your choice of peppers.
Gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.
Great for meal prep and leftovers.
Pairs well with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Impressive enough for entertaining guests.

Ingredients for Salt Pepper Shrimp

Gather these items:

450 g Large Shrimp (Fresh or frozen, deveined)
3 tbsp Potato Starch or Cornstarch (For crispy coating)
Whole Peppercorns (Use white or black pepper if needed)
Sea Salt (Kosher or flaky for extra crunch)
1/3 cup Oil (High smoke point oils like canola or vegetable)
6 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped)
Long Hot Green or Red Pepper (Milder or hotter varieties based on preference)

How to Make Salt Pepper Shrimp Step-by-Step

Step 1: Toast whole peppercorns in a small pot over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, until fragrant. Grind them into a powder. Dry roast the sea salt until it turns slightly yellow, let it cool, and mix with the ground pepper.
Step 2: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Dredge each shrimp in potato starch or cornstarch to create a perfect crispy coating.
Step 3: Heat the oil in a skillet until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they’re golden brown. Once done, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4: In a wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped garlic until golden. Remove any excess oil, then add the sliced hot peppers and toss briefly with the garlic until fragrant.
Step 5: Add the fried shrimp to the wok and quickly toss them with the garlic and pepper mixture. Sprinkle your salt and pepper blend over everything for that extra kick.
Step 6: Plate the shrimp warm and serve with additional salt and pepper to taste. They go wonderfully with steamed rice for a complete meal!

Savory Salt Pepper Shrimp in 20 Minutes or Less - Salt Pepper Shrimp - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Salt Pepper Shrimp

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust the amount of pepper to control the heat in your dish.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; this ensures even cooking.
Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
Experiment with different types of peppers for various flavor profiles.

Best Ways to Serve Salt Pepper Shrimp

Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve the shrimp over a bed of jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
Pair with stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Enjoy as an appetizer at your next gathering with dipping sauces.

How to Store and Reheat Salt Pepper Shrimp

To store, place leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick and easy meal throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salt Pepper Shrimp

What’s the secret to perfect Salt Pepper Shrimp?

The secret lies in the crispy coating—using potato starch or cornstarch creates a light, crunchy texture that complements the bold flavors. Additionally, using freshly ground pepper will enhance the dish’s overall taste.

Can I make Salt Pepper Shrimp ahead of time?

While you can prepare the shrimp and season them in advance, it’s best to fry them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. Leftovers can be stored and reheated, but they may lose some crunch.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Salt Pepper Shrimp?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying, and do not overcrowd the pan. This will help achieve that perfect golden-brown, crispy exterior while keeping the shrimp tender inside.

Variations of Salt Pepper Shrimp You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations:

For a spicy twist, add more hot peppers or a dash of chili oil.
Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for a colorful dish.
Make it a Szechuan-style dish by incorporating Szechuan peppercorns for a unique flavor.
For a milder version, use sweet bell peppers instead of hot ones.

Savory Salt Pepper Shrimp in 20 Minutes or Less - Salt Pepper Shrimp - additional detail

For more tips on cooking shrimp, check out this guide. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit this resource for more information. You can also explore additional shrimp recipes to expand your culinary repertoire.