Description
This Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe features succulent, shell-on shrimp seasoned with fragrant Sichuan peppercorns, white pepper, and garlic, then quickly stir-fried in high-heat avocado oil for a flavorful and spicy dish. Perfect for a quick appetizer or main course, it’s garnished with fresh cilantro and pairs beautifully with starchy or leafy sides.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Spice Mixture
- 1/4 teaspoon white peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (Szechuan peppercorns)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Other Ingredients
- 1/4 cup avocado oil or other high heat oil
- 1 pound medium shell-on shrimp
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 small garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon seeded and minced serrano chili pepper or jalapeño
- Cilantro leaves for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Toast Spice Mixture: 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 kosher salt and set aside.
- Prepare Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp. Rinse in a strainer, drain well, and pat dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a bowl and sprinkle the cornstarch over them. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat the avocado oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until nearly smoking. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing occasionally to ensure even cooking and a golden exterior.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Add garlic, minced chili, and the prepared spice and salt mixture to the shrimp. Toss quickly until the shrimp are coated, fragrant, and cooked through. Serve immediately garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Notes
- Large shrimp can be used instead of medium for a different texture but medium shrimp offer better flavor and firmness.
- Pair these flavorful shrimp over frisée lettuce or fresh pea tendrils for a fresh contrast.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili pepper.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or simply on its own as a spicy appetizer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 oz shrimp)
- Calories: 251 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 1172mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 285mg