Let me tell you, if you haven’t tried *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp*, you’re missing out on one of the simplest yet most delicious dishes around! This dish is a total game-changer when you want something quick but bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made it—I was in a rush but craving something satisfying. Just a few minutes and a handful of ingredients later, I had this incredible plate of shrimp that was crispy, savory, and so comforting. The combination of salt and pepper brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the garlic and ginger add that perfect kick. It’s become one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights, and trust me, once you try it, it’ll be on your regular rotation too!
Ingredients List
Getting together the right ingredients for *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp* is super simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound shrimp: Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for the best texture.
- 1 tablespoon salt: This will help enhance the natural flavors of the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper: Freshly ground if you can; it adds a nice kick!
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This is the secret for that crispy coating.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Use a neutral oil to let the flavors shine.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for that aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon ginger: Freshly minced ginger adds a lovely warmth.
- 1 green onion: Chopped for a colorful garnish and fresh flavor.
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be ready to whip up a fantastic dish in no time!
How to Prepare *Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp*
Now, let’s dive into the magic of cooking *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp*! It’s super straightforward and oh-so-satisfying. Here’s how to get it done:
- First, in a bowl, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with the salt, black pepper, and cornstarch until they’re evenly coated. This is crucial for that crispy texture, so don’t be shy about mixing!
- Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking—just enough to sizzle when the shrimp hit the pan.
- Once the oil is ready, add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful pink and are cooked through. The cornstarch creates that delightful crunch!
- Now, here comes the aromatic goodness! Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly for about a minute. You’ll love the way your kitchen smells!
- Finally, garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
And just like that, you’ve got a stunning dish ready to impress!
Tips for Success
To really nail your *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp*, I’ve got a few pro tips that will make all the difference! First, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp. You want that sizzle to get that perfect crispy texture! If the oil isn’t hot, the shrimp can get soggy instead of crunchy.
Also, don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the shrimp in batches if necessary. This way, they’ll cook evenly and get that beautiful golden color. And remember, seasoning is key! Taste the shrimp after cooking and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a little more zing, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes!
Finally, serve them immediately for that fresh, crispy goodness. Trust me, you want to enjoy them hot right off the stove!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp*, the nutrition can vary a bit based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. But here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect in each serving:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can change based on how you prepare the dish. It’s a great low-calorie option packed with protein, making it perfect for a light yet satisfying meal!
FAQ Section
I get a lot of questions about *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp*, so let’s tackle a few of the most common ones!
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent that crispy texture.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. You can also add some noodles for a heartier meal!
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil when cooking. It’ll amp up the flavor in a delightful way!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in a hot pan to regain some of that crispiness!
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Just keep the shrimp separate from any rice or sides until you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a quick, healthy meal ready to go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Incredibly flavorful with the perfect balance of salt and pepper.
- Healthy option packed with protein and low in calories.
- Versatile dish you can serve with rice, noodles, or veggies.
- Impressive enough for guests, yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s talk about some ingredient options for *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp*! First off, if you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work just as well—just remember to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking. For the salt and pepper, feel free to experiment with flavored salts or specialty black pepper for a twist on the classic taste.
If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, cornstarch is a fantastic choice, but you can also use arrowroot powder as a substitute. As for the vegetable oil, any neutral oil like canola or grapeseed will work, but if you want to add a bit of flavor, try using peanut oil! And don’t hesitate to toss in some veggies like bell peppers or snow peas for a colorful, nutritious boost.
These substitutions make the dish versatile while keeping that signature flavor intact!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal truly shine, pair your *Chinese salt and pepper shrimp* with a steaming bowl of white or jasmine rice. The fluffy grains soak up any extra flavors beautifully! You can also serve it alongside some stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious touch. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, toss in some noodles—like lo mein or rice noodles—soak up all that delicious garlicky goodness. Trust me, these pairings will elevate your dish and create a satisfying dining experience!
For more delicious recipes, check out this stuffed chicken recipe or this teriyaki chicken recipe for a delightful meal!
Print
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp: 5-Minute Flavor Sensation
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious dish featuring shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper, perfect for a quick meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix shrimp with salt, pepper, and cornstarch.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir for 1 minute.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve with rice for a complete meal.
- Can add vegetables for more nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: chinese salt and pepper shrimp
