Table of Contents
Table of Contents
If you’re looking for a dish that is both flavorful and quick to prepare, look no further than Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp. This culinary delight features large shrimp, skillfully seasoned with a blend of spices and served with a hint of heat from Thai chilli peppers. In this article, we will explore the benefits of this dish, essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and creative variations. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or enjoy a delightful dinner on a busy weeknight, this recipe has you covered.
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Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe: A Delicious Culinary Adventure
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
Description
Authentic Cantonese-style salt and pepper shrimp with a crispy shell and bold seasoning. These shrimp are wok-tossed with garlic, chilies, and the perfect balance of salt and Sichuan peppercorns for a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (16/20 count), shell-on or peeled
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (for frying)
- Salt-Pepper Mix:
- 1 tbsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
- 1 tsp white pepper
- Aromatics:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Thai chilies, sliced
- 3 scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry and marinate with Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and white pepper for 15 minutes.
- Toast Sichuan peppercorns in dry pan until fragrant, then grind with salt and white pepper.
- Coat shrimp lightly in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
- Heat oil in wok over high heat. Fry shrimp in batches until crispy (1-2 minutes per side). Remove.
- Drain all but 1 tbsp oil. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, chilies, onion, and scallion whites 30 seconds.
- Return shrimp to wok, sprinkle with 2 tsp salt-pepper mix, and toss vigorously.
- Add scallion greens, toss once more, and serve immediately with lime wedges.
Notes
- Leaving shells on adds flavor and protects the shrimp during frying
- For extra crispiness, double-fry the shrimp
- Adjust chili quantity based on heat preference
- Serve with steamed rice to balance the bold flavors
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese (Cantonese)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 285mg
Why You’ll Love Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Perfect for Families
One of the most appealing aspects of Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is its ability to cater to various palates, making it a fantastic option for family dinners. The dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, giving you extra time to relax and enjoy your meal together.
Nutritional Benefits
Shrimp is a lean protein packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Combined with the fresh peppers and herbs, you’ll enjoy a dish that is low in calories yet high in flavor and antioxidants.
Flexibility
This recipe is highly adaptable. Whether you want to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level for the kids, Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp allows for creativity without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it suitable for families or individuals looking to keep grocery costs down.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
Main Ingredient 1: Shrimp
Shrimp is the star of this dish. It’s not only delicious but also cooks quickly. Look for large shrimp that are fresh or properly frozen. Alternatives could include chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.
Main Ingredient 2: Chili Peppers
The Thai chili peppers provide authentic heat and flavor. For a milder version, consider using bell peppers or reducing the number of chillies. Adjust to your desired spice level!
Main Ingredient 3: Fish Sauce
Fish sauce elevates the umami flavor of this dish tremendously. If you’re keeping it vegetarian or vegan, soy sauce or tamari can be great substitutes while still adding depth.
Ingredient Preparation
Step 1 – Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp will help achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
Step 2 – Chop the Vegetables
Slice the Thai chili peppers, scallions, and mince the garlic and ginger finely. This will enhance the flavors and ensure even cooking. For time-savers, you can prepare these ingredients in advance.
Step 3 – Combine the Dry Mix
In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and peppercorns. This concoction will coat the shrimp for a delightful crunch, so be sure it’s well blended.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 – Initial Preparation
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a generous amount of oil, about ½ inch deep, to make sure the shrimp fry evenly.
Step 2 – Ingredient Assembly
Once the oil is hot, dip each piece of shrimp into the dry mix, ensuring they’re fully coated. This coating not only gives texture but also locks in moisture while cooking.
Step 3 – Cooking and Finishing Touches
Add the shrimp to the skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once done, add the chopped vegetables and fish sauce, tossing everything to combine. Cook for an additional minute to incorporate flavors.
Tips for an Even Tastier Version
Adding Extra Ingredients
Consider adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition. These colorful veggies will make the dish more visually appealing and nutritious.
Techniques to Enhance Flavor
For more depth, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of ginger, garlic, and fish sauce for 15 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the shrimp with incredible flavour.
Adjustments for Preferences
If you are on a specific diet, explore the gluten-free options by using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and tamari instead of fish sauce.
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
Vegetarian Option
Replace shrimp with firm tofu cut into cubes. Follow the same breading and frying instructions, adjusting cooking times as tofu will require less time.
Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option
For a gluten-free dish, use rice flour or almond flour and serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. The flavours will still shine through without added carbs.
Other Adaptations
Seasons can influence your ingredient choices. Try adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini in the summer or squash in the fall for variations that celebrate fresh produce.
Serving Suggestions
Salad or Soup Ideas
To keep your meal balanced, serve Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp with a side salad featuring mixed greens and a light vinaigrette.
Hearty Sides
Pair with homemade bread or roasted vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs. These sides complement the flavors beautifully and offer a satisfying meal.
Drink Recommendations
For an ultimate dining experience, serve with green tea or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which pairs wonderfully with seafood.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it.
Reheating Techniques
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to retain that crispy texture or in the microwave for convenience, although the crispness will be less pronounced.
Portioning Tips
For meal prep enthusiasts, portion out servings in individual containers for easy reheating during the week. This makes it simple to enjoy a quick meal anytime.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Nutritional Values per Serving
A serving of Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp contains about 250 calories, with high protein content and low carbs. It’s a guilt-free dish packed with essential nutrients.
Ingredient Benefits
Shrimp is rich in protein and low in fat, while garlic and ginger contribute to immune-boosting properties. The addition of peppers enhances your vitamin intake, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
Recommended Portions
For a balanced plate, aim for one serving of shrimp with a cup of mixed vegetables and a side of whole grains or a fiber-rich salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Issue 1 – Overcrowding the Pan
Avoid adding too many shrimp at once; this leads to steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches for the best results.
Issue 2 – Not Properly Drying the Shrimp
Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating and frying. Excess moisture can inhibit the formation of a crispy crust.
Issue 3 – Ignoring Heat Levels
Monitor the heat to ensure the oil is adequately heated before cooking. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
Inspiring Conclusion
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together in the kitchen and at the dining table. Its bold flavours and adaptability make it a hit for any occasion. We encourage you to experiment with the recipe and share your modifications, letting the social experience of cooking enrich your friendships and family bonding.
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Although the shrimp are best fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
- What are the best substitutes for shrimp? Chicken, fish, or tofu are excellent alternatives that can be used in this recipe, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Can I make this dish less spicy? Yes! You can reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
- What’s the best way to pair this dish? Serve with steamed rice or a vibrant salad to balance the flavors.
- How long does this dish last in the fridge? It’s best consumed within three days when properly stored in an airtight container.
- Is there a way to make this dish vegan? Substitute shrimp with tofu and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a suitable vegan alternative.
- Can this be made in an air fryer? Yes! Coat the shrimp and use the air fryer to cook them until crispy according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- What sides pair well with Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp? Roasted vegetables or a light stir-fried veggie mix make great companions.
- How can I adjust flavours for dietary restrictions? Customize the dish to suit gluten-free or low-carb diets by adjusting the flour used and serving accompaniments.
- Can I use frozen shrimp for the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure they’re thoroughly thawed and patted dry before proceeding to cook.
Embrace the joy of cooking and indulge in the delightful flavours of Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp today!