Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) peeled and deveined shrimp

• Marinade: 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

• Coating: ½ cup cornstarch, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, ⅛ teaspoon granulated garlic

• Seasoning Blend: ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns, ¼ teaspoon ground black or white pepper, ⅛ teaspoon Chinese five-spice, ⅛ teaspoon light brown sugar

• For Cooking: About ½ cup peanut, canola, or vegetable oil; 3 cloves finely minced garlic; 2 sliced red chili peppers (optional)

• Garnish: Chopped cilantro

Directions

• Combine shrimp, Shaoxing wine, and cayenne pepper in a bowl; mix well and marinate for 10 minutes.

• In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and granulated garlic to make the coating. Transfer to a large zip-top bag.

• Add marinated shrimp to the bag, seal, and shake to coat shrimp evenly with the cornstarch mixture.

• Mix kosher salt, ground Sichuan peppercorns, black or white pepper, Chinese five-spice, and light brown sugar in a small bowl; set aside.

• Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat to about 375°F (190°C).

• Fry shrimp in batches, shaking off excess coating before adding to the oil. Cook 2 minutes per side until shrimp curl and turn pale golden. Avoid overcrowding.

• Remove shrimp and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

• Discard most of the oil, leaving about 2 teaspoons in the pan; add garlic and sliced chili peppers, sauté until fragrant.

• Return shrimp to pan, sprinkle seasoning blend over them, and toss gently to coat evenly.

• Transfer shrimp to serving plate, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 167 kcal

• Total Fat: 11 g (Saturated Fat: 2 g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 4 g, Monounsaturated Fat: 5 g)

• Cholesterol: 73 mg

• Sodium: 230 mg

• Potassium: 158 mg

• Carbohydrates: 7 g (Fiber: 0.3 g, Sugar: 1 g)

• Protein: 9 g

• Vitamin A: 108 IU

• Vitamin C: 13 mg

• Calcium: 34 mg

• Iron: 0.4 mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What truly makes this Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe exceptional is how it achieves a gourmet-level dish with surprisingly simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. The Shaoxing wine plays a crucial role by adding a delicate layer of umami depth that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Unlike many shrimp recipes that rely heavily on complex sauces, this one balances bold flavor with crisp texture through its seasoned cornstarch coating, which fries up to a light, golden crunch. The gentle heat from the cayenne pepper is enough to awaken the palate without overwhelming the subtle seafood taste.

Moreover, the inclusion of Sichuan peppercorns and Chinese five-spice elevates this dish with a unique aromatic complexity. Sichuan peppercorns provide a characteristic tingling, slightly numbing sensation that enhances the overall flavor profile, while Chinese five-spice introduces warm notes of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and pepper, which together bring depth and balance to the seasoning blend. The touch of light brown sugar rounds out the seasoning with a subtle sweetness that harmonizes all the savory elements. This balance of texture, heat, aroma, and flavor makes the dish exciting and memorable, far beyond typical fried shrimp.

For busy college students and professionals alike, this recipe’s quick preparation time is a huge advantage. It’s the kind of meal that fits perfectly into a hectic schedule without sacrificing taste or quality. Whether it’s a fast weeknight dinner, a snack during long study sessions, or a shared appetizer at a campus event, Salt and Pepper Shrimp proves that flavorful home cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Its minimal ingredient list and pantry-friendly components also make it budget-conscious, which is ideal for those managing food expenses without compromising on flavor.

The Nutritional Edge of the Ingredients

Shrimp is a standout ingredient in terms of nutrition. It’s low in calories and fat yet high in quality protein, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to maintain muscle mass and stay energized through long study days or physical activity. Shrimp is also rich in selenium, a mineral important for antioxidant defense and thyroid function, iodine for healthy metabolism, and vitamin B₁₂, which supports cognitive function and red blood cell production—critical factors for students and anyone needing mental focus.

Shaoxing wine, while used sparingly, adds flavor without calories or fat, enhancing the dish’s complexity. Cayenne pepper not only brings warmth but is associated with benefits like boosting metabolism and improving circulation. Sichuan peppercorns add more than just flavor; their unique chemical compounds may contribute to pain relief and digestive support, adding a subtle health benefit. Chinese five-spice’s mix of aromatic spices contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may support overall wellness. Light brown sugar provides a touch of sweetness without excessive added sugars, helping maintain flavor balance.

Cooking the shrimp in a moderate amount of vegetable oil contributes healthy fats necessary for nutrient absorption, especially fat-soluble vitamins, while the minimal oil left in the dish after draining reduces excess fat intake. The fresh cilantro garnish is not just decorative—it adds vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants that support immune health and reduce inflammation.

Cooking Tips for Success

Achieving perfectly crisp shrimp requires attention to detail, especially with moisture control. It’s essential to pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before marinating, as excess moisture can cause the cornstarch coating to slide off and produce soggy results. After coating, shake off any loose cornstarch before frying to prevent clumping and ensure even browning.

Frying in batches is key. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy, unevenly cooked shrimp. Maintain a consistent oil temperature around 375°F (190°C) to get that ideal golden crisp without burning. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil if possible, or test with a small piece of batter before frying the shrimp.

Preparing your seasoning blend and aromatics in advance streamlines the cooking process, which moves quickly once you begin frying. Be mindful when handling the chili peppers—if you prefer milder heat, reduce or omit them. Peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but canola or vegetable oil also work well.

When tossing the shrimp in the seasoning blend, do so gently to avoid breaking the delicate coating. Finally, serve the dish immediately for the best texture, as the crispiness diminishes with time.

Serving Suggestions

Salt and Pepper Shrimp is incredibly versatile in how it can be served and paired. For a light meal or appetizer, serve it alongside dipping sauces such as sweet chili, soy-lime, or even a tangy garlic aioli. As a main course, it pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice, which soak up the flavorful seasoning. Cold sesame noodles provide a cool, refreshing contrast that balances the shrimp’s warmth and crunch.

A crisp cucumber and carrot slaw or a simple Asian-style salad with a sesame dressing adds freshness and crunch, cutting through the richness of the fried shrimp and offering textural variety. For students on the go, the shrimp can be tucked into lettuce wraps with fresh herbs and a drizzle of spicy mayo, creating a portable, hand-held meal.

Another fun way to enjoy this dish is by incorporating it into rice paper rolls with vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs, transforming it into a light yet satisfying appetizer or lunch option. If you have leftovers—which tend to be rare because this dish is so delicious—reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer to revive some of the original crispiness.

Conclusion

Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a shining example of how simple, affordable ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both impressive and approachable. Its balance of crunchy texture, vibrant flavors, and quick preparation time make it an ideal recipe for college students, busy professionals, and home cooks alike. The dish offers a protein-rich, nutrient-dense option that fuels the body and delights the palate, all within a manageable timeframe suitable for hectic schedules.

Whether you are whipping up a quick meal after a day full of classes, sharing a flavorful appetizer at a gathering, or simply craving something satisfying and crunchy, this recipe never disappoints. Its adaptability and pantry-friendly ingredients ensure that it can be easily incorporated into your back-to-school meal plan or weekly rotation.

With Salt and Pepper Shrimp, you get more than just a recipe—you get a versatile, delicious solution for mealtime stress that elevates everyday cooking into something special and memorable. It’s the perfect dish to keep handy for when you want to impress yourself and others with minimal effort, all while enjoying a flavorful bite of comfort and indulgence.