Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns

Introduction

Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns are a true delight, offering the perfect balance of crispy, golden-fried prawns coated in a tantalizing salt and pepper seasoning. This dish is a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine, known for its simplicity yet bold flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy night in or looking to impress at a dinner party, these prawns will certainly steal the show. The crispy exterior, combined with the aromatic spices and a slight heat from the chili, creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

I’ve made Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns countless times, and every single time, they vanish within minutes. The first time I made them, I was surprised by how easy it was to achieve that restaurant-quality crunch at home. The combination of seasoning is the key—just the right amount of salt, pepper, and a hint of spice creates a mouthwatering bite that keeps you coming back for more. The prawns turn out so perfectly crispy that you can’t help but snack on them right out of the pan!

What I love about this dish is how versatile it is. It’s just as great for a quick weeknight dinner as it is for entertaining guests. The prawns are easy to make and full of flavor, which makes them an absolute crowd-pleaser. They pair wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, making for a satisfying meal. Once you give these a try, you’ll see why they’re such a favorite in Chinese cuisine!

Perfect for:

• Quick appetizers
• Family dinners
• Party platters
• Weeknight indulgences
• Seafood lovers

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns

Here’s why Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns are a must-try:

• Crispy Perfection: The prawns are coated in a light, crispy batter that provides the perfect crunch without being overly greasy.
• Bold and Flavorful: The salt and pepper seasoning, with hints of garlic and chili, creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Quick to Make: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable Heat: You can adjust the spice level to suit your preference, making it family-friendly or extra fiery.
• Authentic Taste: This dish brings restaurant-quality Chinese flavors to your kitchen, perfect for when you’re craving takeout.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 280-320 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 22g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns:

• 1 lb (450g) large prawns, peeled and deveined (tails on)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped
• 3 green onions, finely sliced
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Ingredient Highlights

• Prawns: Fresh, large prawns are ideal for this recipe, but frozen prawns can also work if thawed properly.
• Chinese Five-Spice Powder: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the seasoning blend, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Cornstarch: Ensures a light and crispy coating for the prawns.
• Garlic and Chili: Provide aromatic and spicy notes that complement the savory seasoning.
• Green Onions: Add freshness and a mild onion flavor to balance the heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns:

Prepare the Prawns:

1. Season the Prawns: Pat the prawns dry with a paper towel, then season them with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of white pepper. Set aside.

Prepare the Coating and Seasoning:

2. Mix the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, and remaining salt, white pepper, black pepper, and Chinese five-spice powder.
3. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Prawns:

4. Coat the Prawns: Dredge the seasoned prawns in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess.
5. Fry the Prawns: Working in batches, fry the prawns in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Aromatics:

6. Sauté Garlic and Chili: In a clean skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chilies, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine and Serve:

7. Toss the Prawns: Add the fried prawns to the skillet with the garlic and chili. Toss to coat evenly.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

How to Serve Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns

Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns can be served in a variety of ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• With Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
• With Noodles: Toss the prawns with stir-fried noodles for a hearty dish.
• As a Party Snack: Add to a buffet spread alongside other Chinese-inspired appetizers.
• With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp cucumber or green salad to balance the flavors.

Additional Tips for Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns:

• Use Fresh Prawns: Fresh prawns will yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen prawns, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry.
• Monitor the Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent temperature to avoid soggy prawns. A thermometer can help.
• Work in Batches: Fry the prawns in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Add more or fewer chilies depending on your heat tolerance. You can also use bell peppers for a milder version.
• Serve Immediately: These prawns are best served fresh and hot to enjoy their crispy texture.

Recipe Variations for Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns

Try these 10 variations to customize your Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns:

1. Salt & Pepper Calamari: Swap the prawns for squid rings for a different take on this dish.
2. Vegetarian Salt & Pepper Tofu: Use firm tofu cubes instead of prawns for a vegetarian option.
3. Spicy Salt & Pepper Prawns: Add Sichuan peppercorns to the seasoning mix for an extra fiery kick.
4. Sweet Chili Salt & Pepper Prawns: Drizzle sweet chili sauce over the prawns for a tangy-sweet twist.
5. Salt & Pepper Chicken: Replace prawns with bite-sized chicken pieces for a meatier option.
6. Herbed Salt & Pepper Prawns: Add dried herbs like basil or thyme to the coating for an aromatic variation.
7. Salt & Pepper Crab: Substitute prawns with soft-shell crab for a luxurious dish.
8. Lemon Salt & Pepper Prawns: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the prawns for a bright, tangy flavor.
9. Salt & Pepper Veggies: Use a mix of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
10. Garlic Butter Salt & Pepper Prawns: Toss the cooked prawns in melted garlic butter for an extra indulgent flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the prawns before frying. Coat them in the cornstarch mixture, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to a ziplock bag and fry directly from frozen when ready.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness.

Special Equipment for Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns

These tools will make preparing Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns easier:

• Wok or Deep Skillet: Ideal for frying the prawns evenly.
• Thermometer: Helps monitor the oil temperature for consistent results.
• Slotted Spoon: Perfect for removing fried prawns from the oil.
• Mixing Bowls: For seasoning and coating the prawns.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for mincing garlic and slicing chilies and green onions.

FAQ Section for Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns

1. Can I make this dish less spicy?
   Yes, omit the chilies or use bell peppers for a milder version.
2. Can I use frozen prawns?
   Absolutely! Thaw and dry them thoroughly before coating and frying.
3. What oil is best for frying?
   Vegetable, peanut, or canola oil works well due to their high smoke points.
4. Can I bake instead of frying?
   Baking is an option, but the prawns won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.
5. Can I use pre-cooked prawns?
   Pre-cooked prawns can be used but won’t be as flavorful as raw prawns. Reduce frying time to avoid overcooking.

Print

Conclusion

delicious, restaurant-quality dish at home, Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns are the perfect choice. The prawns are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and tossed in a fragrant mix of spices, creating a mouthwatering contrast of textures and flavors. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of chili used, or even add a bit of sweetness with a drizzle of honey or a touch of hoisin sauce. Serve them as an appetizer, pair them with steamed rice, or use them as a topping for noodles to make the dish your own. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a bold and flavorful dish that will impress any guest.

I can’t wait to see how your Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns turn out! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your tasty creations! Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments too!