Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe

If you love the irresistible crunch of perfectly fried prawns combined with the vibrant punch of aromatic spices, then you are in for a treat with this Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe. This dish delivers a beautiful balance of flavors—salty, spicy, and subtly sweet—with a crispy coating that locks in the juiciness of large prawns. It’s not only a feast for your taste buds but also a delightful sensory experience, perfect for sharing with friends and family at any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just love discovering new dishes, this recipe brings the heart of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial, each adding its own magic to the dish. From the fresh prawns that provide a succulent base, to the aromatic spices that create the signature flavor, you’ll find that simplicity is key in crafting this wonderful meal.

• Large prawns (1 lb/450g), peeled and deveined (tails on): The star of the dish, contributing tender texture and natural sweetness.
• Salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors and gives that essential savory kick.
• White pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a mild heat and subtle earthiness without overpowering.
• Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Brings depth and a slightly sharp spiciness.
• Chinese five-spice powder (½ teaspoon): A fragrant blend that infuses the coating with warm notes of star anise, cinnamon, and clove.
• Cornstarch (½ cup): Creates an ultra-crispy outer layer when fried to perfection.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Adds structure to the coating, helping it crisp up evenly.
• Garlic cloves (2-3, minced): Vital for that punchy aroma and taste that wakes up the palate.
• Red chilies (1-2, finely chopped): Provide a fresh, vibrant heat to complement the salty crust.
• Green onions (3, finely sliced): For garnish, offering a fresh crunch and splash of color.
• Vegetable oil: Used for deep frying to achieve that amazing crispy texture.

How to Make Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Prawns

First, take your large prawns, peel and devein them while leaving the tails on for an attractive presentation and easy handling. Pat them dry thoroughly using a paper towel—this step is crucial for a crisp coating later. Then season the prawns evenly with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of white pepper, letting them rest briefly to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Mix the Coating and Seasoning

In a shallow bowl, combine the cornstarch and all-purpose flour with the remaining salt, white pepper, black pepper, and aromatic Chinese five-spice powder. This mixture will form the beautifully crispy shell your prawns will wear after frying. The five-spice gives a distinctive, mouthwatering aroma that makes this version stand out from other salt and pepper dishes.

Step 3: Heat the Oil for Frying

Pour about one inch of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or wok and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is critical for frying, as too low and the prawns will be greasy; too high and they might burn before cooking through. Use a thermometer if you have one or test by dropping a pinch of the coating mix—the oil should sizzle actively.

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Prawns

Take each seasoned prawn and dredge it completely in the cornstarch-flour mixture, shaking off any excess to avoid clumping. Fry the prawns in batches, gently placing them into the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a glorious golden brown and crisp. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to maintain that crispness.

Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics

In a separate clean skillet or wok, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add your minced garlic and chopped red chilies, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes. This releases their fragrance and builds the foundational flavor that will coat the prawns.

Step 6: Toss and Finish

Return the fried prawns to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and chilies. Toss gently but thoroughly so each prawn picks up those aromatic flavors without losing its crispy coating. Sprinkle the sliced green onions on top right before serving to add freshness and that perfect hit of color.

How to Serve Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly sliced green onions are the classic garnish, adding a bright, peppery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the crispy prawns. You might also consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or adding a few sprigs of fresh coriander for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy fried rice to soak up the flavors. Light stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or snap peas provide a crispy, fresh counterpoint, balancing the richness of the prawns elegantly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, serve your Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe atop a bed of crunchy shredded lettuce or nestle them inside lettuce cups for bite-sized appetizers. You can also arrange them around a dipping sauce platter featuring soy sauce, chili oil, or sweet chili sauce to enhance the interactive dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To preserve their crispiness as much as possible, keep the prawns and any sauce components separate if you tossed them together before.

Freezing

For longer storage, it’s best to freeze the prawns before frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer into a freezer bag or container. This way, you can fry them fresh whenever you crave this delightful dish.

Reheating

Reheat the cooked prawns in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain their crisp texture. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soggy and rubbery, which detracts from the signature experience of this Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use shrimp instead of prawns for this recipe?

Absolutely! While prawns tend to be larger and meatier, shrimp can work just as well. Just adjust the frying time slightly since smaller shrimp cook more quickly.

Is Chinese five-spice powder necessary?

While it adds that authentic aromatic touch, you can skip or substitute it if unavailable. A pinch of ground cinnamon and star anise can mimic the flavor, but the dish will still taste delicious without it.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is moderate thanks to the red chilies, but you can control it by adding more or fewer chilies or removing the seeds to reduce the spice. It’s very adaptable to your heat preference.

Can I bake the prawns instead of frying?

Although frying gives the best crunch, baking is an option if you want a lighter version. Coat the prawns as usual and bake them on a wire rack over a baking tray at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.

What kind of oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils tolerate the high temperature needed for crispy prawns without breaking down.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way this Chinese Salt & Pepper Prawns Recipe combines simplicity with bold, memorable flavors. It’s a dish that always impresses and invites you back for seconds. So don’t hesitate—grab those fresh prawns, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious adventure that brings a touch of authentic Chinese flavor to your table. Happy cooking!

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