Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of the sea with a zesty, crunchy coating. Perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, these shrimp are a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. With a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of chili, this recipe transforms ordinary shrimp into a flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer, a party snack, or a main dish, these crispy delights are bound to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons (30 g) cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) chili powder
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) neutral oil (for marinade)
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- 1/8 teaspoon (0.5 g) ground black pepper
- Oil for deep frying
- Optional garnishes: sliced red chili, flaky sea salt, green onions or scallions
Directions
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Marinate the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of oil. Mix well and let it marinate for 20 minutes.
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Prepare the Batter: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper while the shrimp marinates.
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Coat the Shrimp: Once the shrimp are marinated, take each shrimp and coat it evenly in the batter mixture, ensuring they are well covered.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot.
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Fry the Shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
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Drain the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Season and Garnish: While the shrimp are still hot, sprinkle them with chili powder and additional pepper to taste. Garnish with sliced red chili, green onions, and a pinch of flaky sea salt before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Info (per serving): Approximately 250 calories, 12g protein, 20g fat, 6g carbohydrates.
How to Serve
Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp are best served immediately while they are still hot and crispy. Arrange them on a large platter and accompany them with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce. They make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or a delicious main dish served alongside rice or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to garnish with colorful sliced red chili and vibrant green onions for an appealing presentation!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are completely thawed and well-drained before marinating.
What oil is best for deep frying?
A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil is recommended for deep frying as it has a high smoke point and won’t alter the flavor of the dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free versions and use cornstarch, which is naturally gluten-free.