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Landscape photo of salt and pepper shrimp.
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Salt and Pepper Shrimp

This spicy salt and pepper shrimp recipe with a 2 pepper spice mix is a crispy, tongue-tingling weeknight dinner you'll love. 
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American, Asian
Keyword: chinese salt and pepper shrimp, salt and pepper shrimp, salt and pepper shrimp recipe
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

  • ¼ teaspoon white peppercorns
  • ¼ teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns also called Szechuan peppercorns
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ 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 peppercorns in a small, dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and popping, shaking often and taking care not to let them burn. Transfer to a small bowl. Coarsely grind in a spice mill and then combine with kosher salt. Set aside.
  • Peel and devein shrimp. Place in a strainer and rinse; drain and pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
  • Place in a clean dry bowl and sprinkle cornstarch over; toss to coat.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until nearly smoking.
  • Add shrimp; cook for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing occasionally to cook evenly (do not over cook).
  • Add garlic, minced chili pepper and peppercorn / salt mixture and toss until shrimp is coated and spices are fragrant. Serve garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.