Description
This Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe offers a quick and flavorful seafood dish with a balance of heat, saltiness, and aromatic spices. Perfectly crispy shrimp are seasoned with toasted peppercorns, garlic, and chili, then cooked in high heat for a tender yet crisp texture. Ideal for a quick appetizer or main course, this dish pairs well with fresh greens or rice.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Spice Mixture
- 1/4 teaspoon white peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan (Szechuan) peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup avocado oil or other high heat oil
- 1 pound medium shell-on shrimp
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 small cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon seeded and minced serrano chili pepper or jalapeño
- Cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the spices: Toast the white and Sichuan peppercorns in a small, dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and popping, shaking often to prevent burning. Transfer to a small bowl, then coarsely grind in a spice mill. Mix with the kosher salt and set aside.
- Prepare the shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp. Rinse in a strainer, drain well, and pat dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a bowl, sprinkle with cornstarch, and toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat avocado oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until nearly smoking. Add the coated shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing occasionally for even cooking.
- Add aromatics and spices: Add minced garlic, chili, and the spice salt mixture. Toss well to coat the shrimp and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with cilantro leaves if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use medium-sized shrimp for optimal flavor and texture, but large shrimp work well too.
- Serve over a bed of frisée or fresh pea tendrils for a light and fresh presentation.
- This dish is best enjoyed hot for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pound (about 4 oz) per serving
- Calories: 251 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 1172 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 285 mg