There’s something truly joyful about the crunch of a perfect prawn, especially when it’s coated in a crisp, golden layer that dances with flavor. As I was experimenting in my kitchen one weekend, the delightful aromas of garlic and spice filled the air, urging me to revisit one of my favorite Chinese dishes: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns. These little wonders aren’t just easy to whip up, but they also manage to impress with their blend of savory and mildly spicy notes, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meal, this dish offers a balance of simplicity and sophistication. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick frying process, you’ll be serving up a plate of prawns that look and taste like they came straight from a bustling restaurant kitchen. Join me as we delve into this flavorful journey and discover how to create a dish that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns irresistible?
Crispy texture: The light cornstarch coating fries up perfectly, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender prawns inside.
Bold flavors: A delightful mix of salt, pepper, and garlic elevates each bite, making it a burst of savory goodness.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties or family dinners, this dish is sure to impress both casual diners and food enthusiasts.
Quick and easy: In just 30 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a stunning dish without the fuss.
Versatile: Enjoy it on its own as an appetizer or toss it in a salad or noodle dish for added flair.
These Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns are not just a meal; they’re an experience that will have everyone coming back for more!
Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Ingredients
• To bring this flavorful dish to life, you’ll need a handful of quality ingredients that will ensure your prawns are the star of your meal.
For the Prawns
- Large Prawns – Opt for fresh, large prawns for optimal taste and texture.
- Cornstarch – Provides a light, crispy coating; feel free to substitute with rice flour for a gluten-free option.
For the Seasoning
- Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground is best for maximum pungency.
- Chili Flakes – Introduces just the right amount of heat; customize based on your spice tolerance.
For the Garnish
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a delightful aroma and flavor.
- Green Onions – Use for garnish and an extra layer of flavor; chives can be a good alternative.
With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating mouthwatering Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns that will impress anyone at your table!
How to Make Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns
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Prep Prawns: Clean and devein the prawns, ensuring they are patted dry with a paper towel. This step is vital for achieving that signature crispy texture later on.
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Combine Coating: In a medium bowl, mix together cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. This blend will create a flavorful coating that truly elevates the prawns.
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Coat Prawns: Toss the cleaned prawns in the cornstarch mixture until they are completely coated. Make sure each prawn gets an even layer for that ideal crunch when fried.
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Heat Oil: In a deep pan, heat enough oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers—a perfect indicator that your oil is ready for frying.
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Fry Prawns: Carefully add the coated prawns in small batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. This step is essential for that delightful crunch.
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Drain: Once fried, remove the prawns with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
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Prepare Garnish: In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic and sliced green onions for about a minute until fragrant, then toss them with the fried prawns for added flavor.
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Serve: Arrange the hot prawns on a serving platter. For an optional touch, sprinkle additional chili flakes or sesame seeds on top to enhance presentation!
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns
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Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy these prawns fresh, but if needed, they can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store leftover prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for optimal crispiness rather than using the microwave.
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Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled, cooked prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen prawns in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy your Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns once again!
What to Serve with Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns?
Elevate your meal with delicious sides that complement the bold flavors and textures of this delightfully crispy dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant addition, jasmine rice soaks up the delicious seasonings, enhancing every bite.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this salad balances the heat of the prawns with a light vinegar dressing, making for a perfectly cool contrast.
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Garlic Noodles: Delightfully chewy noodles coated in garlic and soy sauce pair beautifully with the crunch of the prawns, adding heartiness to your meal.
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Stir-Fried Bok Choy: The slight bitterness of bok choy adds depth to the meal, while its tender crunch mirrors the prawns’ crispy texture.
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Sweet and Sour Sauce: For those who love a flavor contrast, a sweet and tangy dip offers an exciting twist that complements the savory prawns.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the dish with its crispness and hints of fruit, rounding out the meal beautifully.
A well-rounded plate will surely impress your guests and make your gathering an occasion to remember!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns are a fantastic meal prep option for busy cooks! You can clean and devein the prawns up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix the cornstarch coating (cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes) ahead of time and store it in a sealed bag for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the prawns in the coating and fry them in small batches as stated in the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy that restaurant-quality crunch with minimal effort, ensuring your prawns are just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Expert Tips for Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns
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Dry Prawns Thoroughly: Make sure your prawns are completely dry before coating. Excess moisture will prevent the cornstarch from adhering properly, resulting in a less crispy texture.
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Preheat Your Oil: Always test the oil’s temperature by dropping a bit of cornstarch into it. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go—this ensures the prawns fry up perfectly.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the prawns in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding will cause the prawns to steam rather than fry, leading to soggy results.
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Adjust for Spice: Tailor the chili flakes to your taste. Start with less if you’re unsure, and add more for a spicy kick as all palates are different.
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Rest on Paper Towels: After frying, let the prawns rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step helps keep them crispy instead of greasy.
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Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the fresh garlic and green onions. They not only add flavor but also elevate the presentation of your Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns!
Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create a personalized version of this dish that will awaken your palate and satisfy your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Swap cornstarch with rice flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for a tasty alternative that caters to dietary needs.
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Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle hoisin sauce or honey over the fried prawns before serving for a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some thinly sliced bell peppers or snap peas when frying for a colorful and nutritious twist. This not only adds crunch but also enhances the flavor profile.
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Noodle Topping: Use the crispy prawns as a topping for stir-fried noodles or salads to create a complete meal that packs a flavor punch.
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Extra Heat: For those who crave an added kick, include finely chopped fresh chilies in the coating mix or as a garnish. They’ll bring a vibrant pop of color and spice!
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Coconut Crunch: For a tropical flair, toss shredded coconut with the cornstarch mixture before coating the prawns. This adds a unique flavor and crunch that will transport you to the beach.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the spice blend to add a depth of flavor that gives the prawns a warm, smoky undertone.
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Savory Herbs: Add finely chopped fresh cilantro or basil as a garnish after frying for a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens each bite.
Embrace your culinary creativity and let these variations inspire a new twist on a beloved classic!
Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe FAQs
What type of prawns should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using large, fresh prawns for the best texture and flavor. Look for those that are firm to the touch and have a clean sea-like scent. Avoid prawns with a slimy texture or dark spots as these indicate age.
How should I store leftover crispy prawns?
For the best texture and flavor, store leftover prawns in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain their crispy coating.
Can I freeze crispy prawns for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the cooked prawns cool completely. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them into a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until nicely crisp.
What if I want to make this dish less spicy?
No problem at all! Simply reduce the amount of chili flakes in the seasoning to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit of spice without the heat, consider using sweet paprika or a gentle chili powder as an alternative.
How will this recipe fit into my dietary preferences?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you substitute cornstarch with rice flour. However, always double-check that your ingredients align with any additional dietary needs, especially if serving to guests with allergies or specific dietary restrictions.
How do I achieve the perfect crispiness for the prawns?
For optimal crispiness, ensure your prawns are patted dry before coating them in the cornstarch mix. Preheat your oil until it shimmers—this helps create that enviable crunch while avoiding sogginess. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, and remember to let them drain on paper towels after frying to soak up excess oil.
Mouthwatering Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Clean and devein the prawns, ensuring they are patted dry with a paper towel.
- In a medium bowl, mix together cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
- Toss the cleaned prawns in the cornstarch mixture until they are completely coated.
- In a deep pan, heat enough oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully add the coated prawns in small batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until they achieve a golden brown color.
- Once fried, remove the prawns with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels.
- In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic and sliced green onions for about a minute until fragrant, then toss them with the fried prawns.
- Arrange the hot prawns on a serving platter and sprinkle additional chili flakes or sesame seeds on top if desired.