Taste the Coast: North Carolina's Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe You Can't Resist

When you think of North Carolina, the first thing that might come to mind is its scenic coastal beauty, but the state also boasts a rich seafood tradition. Among the freshest and most flavorful dishes is the Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp, a simple yet delightful seafood recipe that’s quickly becoming a household favorite. This dish brings the savory, crunchy texture of fried shrimp together with a perfect blend of salt, pepper, and a touch of heat from spices, making it irresistible.

Photo bysouthernkissed.com

A Taste of Coastal North Carolina

North Carolina’s connection to the sea runs deep. From the Outer Banks to Wilmington, the state’s fishing communities have long provided fresh catches that influence its cuisine. The Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp perfectly captures the essence of coastal living, combining minimal ingredients with maximum flavor. Whether it’s served as a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this dish will transport you to a sun-soaked dockside seafood shack in the heart of the Tar Heel State.

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this shrimp recipe makes the most of North Carolina's fresh shrimp harvest. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity, letting the natural sweetness of shrimp shine through while offering a delicious crunch.

Recipe: North Carolina’s Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh shrimp, shell-on, deveined
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Begin by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Keeping the shells on helps retain flavor and moisture, while creating an extra crispy texture.
2. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and white pepper. Toss the shrimp in the mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F).
4. Carefully fry the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
5. In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil. Add the garlic, green onions, and chili (if using) and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
6. Toss the crispy shrimp in the sautéed mixture to coat them with the garlic, onion, and chili.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra green onions and a wedge of lime.

Bringing the Coast to Your Table

This Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is the perfect way to bring a taste of North Carolina’s coast into your kitchen. With its crispy, golden texture and bursts of garlic and pepper, it's a dish that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends. The simplicity of this recipe allows the shrimp’s natural flavors to stand out, while the crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch with each bite.

Enjoy this dish with a side of steamed rice, or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce. Either way, it's a savory reminder of the rich seafood traditions that make North Carolina cuisine so special.

Sources:

Salt and Pepper Shrimp - Southern Kissed

Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe (thissillygirlskitchen.com)

Crispy, Crunchy Fried Shrimp - Island Life NC