Go Back
Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood choices globally, with culinary applications ranging from Asian stir-fries to Mediterranean paellas. Its mild flavor and adaptability make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. The Crunchy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Delight showcases shrimp in a tantalizing way, emphasizing its natural sweetness while complementing it with a savory, crispy coating. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or treating yourself to a special weeknight dinner, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion. The addictive crunch and spicy kick will leave your guests clamoring for more, ensuring it becomes a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Discover the perfect blend of crunch and flavor with Crunchy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Delight. This dynamic seafood dish features crispy shrimp coated in a zesty seasoning blend, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, shrimp becomes the star of your meal. With simple ingredients and a few preparation steps, you can create a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Elevate your dinner parties or weeknight meals with this tasty delight that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

½ cup cornstarch

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)

½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Vegetable oil, for frying

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Shrimp: Using paper towels, gently pat the shrimp dry to eliminate any excess moisture. This step is crucial as it ensures a crispy texture when frying.

    Make the Coating: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix with a whisk or fork until all dry ingredients are well blended, creating a uniform coating mix.

      Coat the Shrimp: Add the prepared shrimp to the bowl with the dry mixture. Toss them gently but thoroughly, ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated. Once coated, shake off any excess mixture to avoid clumps.

        Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to create about 2 inches of depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the coating into the oil; if it sizzles vigorously, the oil is ready for frying.

          Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp become golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp, allowing excess oil to drain as you place them on a plate lined with paper towels.

            Garnish and Serve: After all the shrimp are fried, arrange them beautifully on a serving platter. Top with finely chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze over the shrimp.

              Enjoy: Pair your crunchy shrimp with your choice of dipping sauce, such as a sweet chili sauce or a tangy soy sauce, for an added dimension of flavor. Delight in this crispy and flavorful dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings