Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe with Crispy Golden Coating

Chinese salt and pepper shrimp provides that perfect combination of crispy texture and bold seasoning that makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

This dish has become incredibly popular at restaurants, but it's surprisingly simple to recreate at home with fantastic results.

The light, crunchy coating pairs beautifully with the aromatic seasoning blend that gives every bite a satisfying punch of flavor.

Whether planning a weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this recipe fits seamlessly into any menu.

The quick cooking time means less effort in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal.

Once cooked properly, the shrimp stay tender inside while maintaining that addictive crispy exterior everyone loves.

If looking for something that feels special without being complicated, this recipe checks all the boxes and will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Highlights of Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Quick Spice Adventure: Your kitchen transforms into a flavor playground with just a few simple ingredients, making this recipe perfect for spontaneous cooking moments.
• Zero Fuss Cooking: Minimal steps and basic pantry staples mean you can have a restaurant-quality dish without complicated techniques or expensive ingredients.
• Protein Power Meal: Shrimp provides a lean protein boost that keeps your dinner nutritious and satisfying without feeling heavy or complicated.
• Crowd-Pleaser Potential: This dish works brilliantly for casual family dinners or when friends drop by, guaranteeing smiles around the dining table with its bold, zesty profile.

Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Ingredient Breakdown

• Shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined shrimp ensure a clean, easy eating experience.
• Salt (1 tablespoon): Brings out the deep, rich flavor of the shrimp.
• Black Pepper (2 teaspoons): Adds a robust, warming kick to each bite.
• White Pepper (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle, more delicate pepper heat.
• Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Creates a light, crispy exterior that helps seal in the shrimp’s natural moisture.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons): Ensures perfect golden browning without overwhelming the seafood’s delicate taste.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Brings a pungent, aromatic depth to the dish.
• Green Onions (2): Add a fresh, mild onion brightness.
• Red Bell Pepper (1): Introduces a sweet, colorful crunch to complement the shrimp.

Full Frying Tools for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious container to comfortably mix your shrimp with the spice blend and cornstarch.
• Heavy-Bottom Skillet (12-inch): Ensures even heat distribution for perfectly crispy, golden-brown shrimp.
• Tongs: Great for flipping and moving shrimp around the pan without breaking their delicate texture.
• Cutting Board: A clean surface for chopping garlic, green onions, and bell pepper.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Helps you slice ingredients quickly and precisely.
• Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements for your salt and pepper mix.
• Cornstarch Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: Helps dust shrimp evenly with a light cornstarch coating.
• Paper Towels: Useful for draining excess oil from the cooked shrimp.

Step-by-Step Guide for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Easy Tips for Crisp Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Crush your salt and peppers together to release deeper flavors before coating the shrimp.
• Pat your shrimp super dry before dusting with cornstarch to guarantee an incredible crispy exterior.
• Use a cast-iron skillet or wok to get that perfect golden-brown sear without burning your delicate shrimp.
• Toss minced garlic in the last minute of cooking to prevent burning and keep its fresh, sharp taste.
• Sprinkle chopped green onions right before serving to add a bright, fresh crunch that makes your dish pop.

How Can Chinese Salt And Pepper Shrimp Be Varied

• Spicy Kick Shrimp: Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the spice mix for extra heat that’ll wake up your taste buds.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace cornstarch with rice flour or potato starch to keep the crispy texture safe for your gluten-sensitive friends.
• Veggie Swap: Can’t do shrimp? Try the same seasoning with tofu cubes or cauliflower florets for a totally different protein experience.
• Air Fryer Version: Skip the pan and toss your seasoned shrimp into an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes for a crispy, oil-reduced alternative that saves cleanup time.

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Perfect Portion Size: Serve 4-5 jumbo shrimp per person as a fantastic appetizer or light main course that feels generous without overwhelming your plate.
• Pairing with Rice: Spread these crispy shrimp over steamed white rice to catch all those delicious pepper and garlic bits, creating a complete meal your family will love.
• Fresh Side Salad: Complement the rich, spicy shrimp with a simple cucumber and lettuce salad dressed in a light rice vinegar to balance the bold flavors.
• Wine Selection: Choose a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling that cuts through the shrimp’s spiciness and enhances the dish’s pepper notes.

Proper Storage Notes for Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Seal leftover shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days, keeping the crispy texture intact.
• Freeze uncooked seasoned shrimp in a freezer bag for quick weeknight meals, laying them flat to prevent sticking.
• Store extra salt and pepper mix in a small sealed jar at room temperature, ready for your next seafood adventure.
• Keep unused cornstarch in a cool, dry pantry spot to maintain its coating power for future crispy dishes.

Chinese Salt And Pepper Shrimp Q&A

Chinese Salt And Pepper Shrimp Recipe

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4.9 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Salt and Pepper Shrimp will rock your dinner table with its crispy, zesty charm. Quick to prepare and packed with bold flavor, this Cantonese-style dish brings restaurant magic straight to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound shrimp

Seasonings and Coating:

• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• ½ cup cornstarch

Supporting Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 green onions
• 1 red bell pepper

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Instructions

1. Combine 1 tablespoon salt, 2 teaspoons black pepper, and 1 teaspoon white pepper in a mixing bowl, creating your signature seasoning blend.
2. Drop 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp into the spice mixture, ensuring each piece gets thoroughly coated with the fragrant seasonings.
3. Spread ½ cup cornstarch over the seasoned shrimp, gently tossing to create a light, crispy exterior coating.
4. Pour 2 tablespoons vegetable oil into a skillet, heating to 350°F over medium-high heat until the surface shimmers slightly.
5. Carefully place seasoned shrimp into the hot skillet, arranging them in a single layer so each piece can develop a golden-brown crust, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Toss 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped green onions, and 1 sliced red bell pepper into the pan, quickly stirring for 1-2 minutes to preserve their vibrant colors and crisp texture.
7. Transfer the sizzling shrimp and vegetables to a serving plate, allowing the aromas to tantalize your senses before enjoying your freshly prepared dish.

Notes

• Salt and pepper can be adjusted to personal taste, with more white pepper adding extra warmth and complexity to the dish.
• Cornstarch creates a delicate, crispy exterior on the shrimp, so coat them evenly and shake off excess for the best texture.
• Fresh shrimp deliver the most vibrant flavor, so select large, deveined shrimp from a trusted seafood counter for optimal results.
• For a lighter version, consider air frying the shrimp instead of pan-frying, which reduces oil content while maintaining a crisp finish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Shrimp
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 237 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 1460 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 19 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg