Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that features perfectly battered and fried shrimp, seasoned with a blend of spices for a flavorful crunch.
Author:Lorenzo Bonucci
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:Serves 4
Category:Appetizer
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Chinese
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup cold water
Vegetable oil for frying
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
Gradually add the cold water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, and carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Once all the shrimp are cooked, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce and ginger for 15-30 minutes before coating them.
Try adding a pinch of chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.