Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns
Crispy, savory, and bursting with flavor, these Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns are quick-fried until golden, then tossed with garlic, chilies, and scallions for a restaurant-quality takeout classic you can make at home. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, quick family meals, or as a standout appetizer for your next party!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large raw prawns or shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder (optional)
- vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced (or red bell pepper for milder)
- 2 green onions (scallions), chopped
- 1 teaspoon toasted Sichuan peppercorns, crushed (optional)
- lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, white pepper, and Chinese five spice powder if using.
- Pat prawns dry and toss in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C).
- Fry the prawns in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning as needed, until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- In a clean pan or wok, add 1 tablespoon of the frying oil. Sauté the garlic, red chilies, green onions, and Sichuan peppercorns (if using) for 1–2 minutes until aromatic.
- Add the fried prawns to the pan and toss quickly to coat with the aromatics.
- Taste and add extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and extra scallions or chilies if desired.
Nutrition
Serving: 1peopleCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 25gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 690mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
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