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When it comes to seafood appetizers, few dishes can rival the irresistible allure of crunchy salt and pepper crispy shrimp. This dish is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfectly balancing the satisfying crunch of the batter with the tender, succulent shrimp inside. Ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or simply a treat for yourself, this recipe caters to anyone looking for a quick yet indulgent meal.

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Discover the irresistible crunch of Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp—a perfect seafood appetizer that combines great flavors with an addictive texture. This easy recipe features large shrimp in a light batter seasoned with garlic, onion, and a hint of spice, ensuring every bite is a delight. Ideal for casual dinners or special occasions, impress your guests or treat yourself to this culinary gem. Dive into the world of crispy shrimp and elevate your cooking experience!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

1/2 cup cold club soda

Vegetable oil for frying

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures they fry up crispy.

    Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Slowly pour in the cold club soda while whisking to create a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the shrimp but still pourable.

      Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature for best results.

        Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow excess batter to drip off before frying.

          Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add a few shrimp at a time into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

            Season and Serve: Once all shrimp are fried, transfer to a serving platter. Optionally, sprinkle with extra salt and freshly ground pepper. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

              Enjoy: Dive into these delightful crispy shrimp with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain for a burst of flavor!

                Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4