Salt and Pepper Mantis Shrimp

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the mantis shrimp. Rinse the mantis shrimp thoroughly and drain well. Pat dry with paper towels.

2. 2

   Marinate the mantis shrimp. In a large bowl, combine the mantis shrimp with cornstarch, salt (for marinating), and white pepper (for marinating). Toss to coat evenly.

3. 3

   Prepare the seasoning mix. In a small bowl, combine salt (for seasoning), white pepper (for seasoning), sugar, and five-spice powder. Set aside.

4. 4

   Deep fry the mantis shrimp. Heat cooking oil in a wok or deep pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 170-180°C. Carefully add the mantis shrimp in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the wok. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.

5. 5

   Sauté aromatics. Discard most of the oil from the wok, leaving about 1 tbsp. Add minced garlic and chopped red chilies. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

6. 6

   Combine and season. Return the fried mantis shrimp to the wok. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mix and chopped spring onion over the shrimp. Toss quickly to coat all the mantis shrimp evenly with the seasoning. Serve immediately.