If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, spicy, and absolutely irresistible, this Pepper Shrimp Recipe is just what you need! Tender, juicy shrimp are infused with aromatic spices, garlic, onions, and a generous kick of black pepper that wakes up your taste buds with every bite. Quick to whip up yet packed with restaurant-style flavor, this pepper shrimp recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress family and friends with something flavorful and exciting.
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How to Make Pepper Shrimp Recipe
This dish comes together with minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. The shrimp cook in just a few minutes, soaking up the bold seasoning and aromatic spices beautifully. A quick toss with garlic, onions, and a dash of pepper transforms them into something irresistibly savory with a touch of heat. It’s one of those recipes that feels gourmet but is simple enough for any day of the week. The result is tender, juicy shrimp coated in rich, peppery goodness that you’ll find yourself craving again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (red, green, or mixed)
- 2–3 fresh chilies, chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 tsp fresh lime or lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp well, peel and devein them, then pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to lock in flavor before cooking.
- Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the oil. Let it heat until it shimmers, a hot pan helps the shrimp cook quickly and stay tender.
- Sauté the Aromatics
Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and slightly golden. Stir in the garlic and chilies, cooking just until fragrant without letting the garlic burn.
- Cook the Shrimp
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and begin to curl. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery quickly.
- Add the Vegetables and Sauce
Stir in the bell peppers and cook briefly to keep them crisp. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, tossing everything so the shrimp and vegetables are coated in flavor.
- Season with Pepper
Sprinkle generously with freshly ground black pepper and stir well, allowing the bold, peppery taste to infuse every bite.
- Finish and Serve
Squeeze over fresh lime or lemon juice for brightness, then garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or warm bread.
Tips for Making Pepper Shrimp Recipe
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, usually 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and curl.
- Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper: For maximum flavor and aroma, grind the pepper just before adding it to the dish.
- Keep the Vegetables Crisp: Add bell peppers toward the end of cooking to retain a slight crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender shrimp.
- Adjust the Heat Level: Increase or decrease the number of chilies or black pepper based on your spice preference.
- Serve Immediately: Pepper shrimp is best enjoyed hot and fresh, so have sides like rice, noodles, or bread ready to serve.
What to Serve with Pepper Shrimp Recipe
Pepper shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the flavorful sauce or toss it with buttery noodles for a quick and satisfying meal. It also works well alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the bold, peppery taste. For a lighter option, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the juices, making every bite even more delicious.
Ingredient Substitutes for Pepper Shrimp Recipe
- Shrimp: You can use scallops, small pieces of chicken, or firm white fish if shrimp isn’t available.
- Vegetable Oil: Olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil can be used for sautéing.
- Bell Peppers: Use zucchini, snap peas, or carrots for a similar crunch and color.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work as a gluten-free alternative.
- Oyster Sauce: Hoisin sauce or mushroom sauce can replace it for a similar savory depth.
- Chilies: Red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can be used if fresh chilies aren’t on hand.
Recipe Variations for Pepper Shrimp Recipe
- Garlic Butter Pepper Shrimp: Replace the vegetable oil with butter and add extra minced garlic while sautéing. This creates a rich, aromatic flavor that coats the shrimp perfectly, giving it a luxurious, restaurant-style taste.
- Spicy Pepper Shrimp: For those who love heat, increase the number of fresh chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. The bold spice pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Coconut Pepper Shrimp: Stir in a few tablespoons of coconut milk at the end of cooking. This adds a creamy, slightly sweet layer of flavor that balances the peppery spice and makes the dish more indulgent.
- Asian-Inspired Pepper Shrimp: Add a splash of rice vinegar and a teaspoon of sesame oil to the sauce. This variation introduces a tangy, nutty depth that elevates the shrimp with a subtle Asian flair.
- Vegetable Pepper Shrimp: Include additional vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or baby corn. This makes the dish heartier and colorful while adding extra textures that complement the tender shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does my shrimp sometimes release water and not sear properly?
Shrimp contains a lot of natural moisture. If they aren’t patted completely dry before cooking or if the pan isn’t hot enough, they will steam instead of sear. Proper drying and a hot pan are key for that perfect crust.
2. Can I use the same pan for everything, including vegetables and shrimp?
Yes, but timing is important. Cook aromatics and shrimp first, then quickly stir in vegetables. Adding vegetables too early can cause them to overcook or release water that dilutes the flavor.
3. Why does black pepper sometimes taste bitter instead of spicy?
Over-toasting or cooking black pepper at very high heat can make it bitter. Add most of the pepper toward the end to preserve its sharp, aromatic flavor.
4. Can I replace shrimp with other seafood without changing the cooking time?
Not exactly. Different seafood, like scallops or fish, have varying thickness and moisture content. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking or drying them out.
5. Why does the dish taste bland sometimes even with all the seasoning?
The balance of flavors matters: salt, pepper, acidity, and umami all play a role. Taste as you cook, adjust salt, add a squeeze of lime, or a dash of soy/oyster sauce to bring the flavors together.
Final Thoughts
Pepper shrimp is a dish that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With its tender, juicy shrimp, bold peppery kick, and a hint of aromatic spices, it’s perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, you can adjust the heat, swap in your favorite vegetables, or even experiment with creamy or Asian-inspired twists. Quick to make yet packed with restaurant-quality flavor, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds and make your kitchen smell irresistible. Serve it hot, enjoy the vibrant flavors, and savor every bite of this delightful peppery seafood treat.
Rinse the shrimp well, peel and devein them, then pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to lock in flavor before cooking. Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the oil. Let it heat until it shimmers, a hot pan helps the shrimp cook quickly and stay tender. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and slightly golden. Stir in the garlic and chilies, cooking just until fragrant without letting the garlic burn. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and begin to curl. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery quickly. Stir in the bell peppers and cook briefly to keep them crisp. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, tossing everything so the shrimp and vegetables are coated in flavor. Sprinkle generously with freshly ground black pepper and stir well, allowing the bold, peppery taste to infuse every bite. Squeeze over fresh lime or lemon juice for brightness, then garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or warm bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
