Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, based on preference)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry, optional)
  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil

For the Coating:

  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg white (for extra crispiness, optional)

For Frying:

  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

For the Seasoning Mix:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon five-spice powder (optional)

For the Garnish:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small red chili, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes)
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced
  • ½ teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Place shrimp in a bowl and season with salt, white pepper, garlic powder, Shaoxing wine (if using), and sesame oil. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

  1. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. If using, lightly whisk an egg white and mix it into the shrimp for a better coating.
  3. Dredge each shrimp in the dry mixture, ensuring an even, light coating. Shake off excess flour.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for about 2–3 minutes per batch, or until golden and crispy.
  3. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

  1. In a small bowl, combine salt, white pepper, black pepper, sugar, and five-spice powder (if using).

Step 5: Toss with Aromatics and Serve

  1. In a clean pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and chili for about 30 seconds.
  2. Add the fried shrimp and toss quickly to coat with the garlic and chili.
  3. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the shrimp and toss again.
  4. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, then serve immediately.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 6–8 shrimp per person
  • Calories: 280
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://mysavorytwist.com/salt-and-pepper-crispy-shrimp/