Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe cooked to perfection, served on a plate - Yumaroma Save Pin

Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe

Crispy wok-fried salt and pepper shrimp tossed with garlic, sliced jalapeños, Sichuan pepper, and green onions.

Prep Time 10 min
Cook Time 10 min
Servings 4
Difficulty Easy
Calories 280 kcal
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Seafood shines brightest when treated with respect and simplicity, and this Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe lets the natural sweetness of jumbo shrimp, & deveined, cornstarch and sea salt & white pepper take center stage. With a focused cooking time of 20 min, gentle heat preserves delicate moisture while delivering a lightly caramelized, succulent finish.

Ingredients

4 servings
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Coat Shrimp in Cornstarch (5 Min)

Pat shrimp dry. Toss with sea salt, white pepper, and cornstarch until lightly coated.

2

Crisp Fry Shrimp (5 Min)

Heat oil in a wok until shimmering. **Fry** shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove shrimp to paper towels.

3

Stir Fry Aromatics & Toss (3 Min)

Drain excess oil leaving 1 tbsp. Stir fry garlic, jalapeño rings, green onions, and Sichuan pepper for 1 minute. Toss in crispy shrimp and serve immediately!

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Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips

  • White Pepper vs Black Pepper: White pepper gives authentic Chinese takeout salt & pepper flavor without dark specks.
  • High Heat Wok Sear: Cooking in small batches keeps oil hot so shrimp stays ultra-crispy.

1. Pat Surfaces Completely Dry: Always pat seafood dry with clean paper towels before it hits the skillet. Surface moisture creates steam; dry protein sears instantly into a golden, flavorful crust. 2. Protect Minced Garlic from Burning: Garlic cooks and turns fragrant in just 30 to 45 seconds. Add it toward the end of sautéing onions or aromatics so it perfumes the dish without acquiring a bitter edge. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: White Pepper vs Black Pepper: White pepper gives authentic Chinese takeout salt & pepper flavor without dark specks.

Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs

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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes

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  • Why Did My Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe Stick to the Skillet?: Seafood sticks when the pan is not hot enough or if attempted to flip too quickly. Allow the fillet to sear undisturbed over medium-high heat; as the crust caramelizes, it will naturally release cleanly from the metal.
  • How to Avoid Rubberiness?: Seafood cooks in mere minutes. Remove fish or shellfish from direct heat the moment flesh turns opaque—residual carryover heat on the warm platter finishes cooking without toughening.
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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines

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Store cooked seafood in a shallow airtight glass container in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a lightly oiled covered skillet over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes. Avoid high-power microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: Can I make this with frozen fish fillets? A: Yes, but ensure fillets are thawed completely in the refrigerator overnight and thoroughly dried with paper towels before cooking.

Q: What white wine pairs best with this dish? A: A crisp, high-acid white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry Chardonnay pairs divinely with the seafood flavors.

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Kitchen Notes & Discussion

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Step 1 of 3

Coat Shrimp in Cornstarch (5 Min)

Pat shrimp dry. Toss with sea salt, white pepper, and cornstarch until lightly coated.

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