Salt and Pepper Gambas (Spanish-Style Shrimp)

A multicoloured array of peppercorns and chillies ground together adds fire to these deep-fried Spanish shrimp scented with ginger and garlic.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  lb  raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and intestinal threads removed
•  vegetable oil, for deep-frying
• 1  bunch scallion, cut into 1 1/2in pieces
• 6  garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1  inch  piece  fresh gingerroot, peeled and finely shredded
• 2⁄3 ounce sea salt, plus extra for soaking
• 2⁄3 ounce  ground  mixed peppercorns, and
•  chile, such as black pepper, green pepper, chilli powder, cayenne pepper and szechuan pepper
• 1  bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Soak the shrimp in a large bowl of salty cold water for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and pat the prawns dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a generous quantity of vegetable oil in a deep-fryer to 350F then fry the shrimp for just 20 seconds, working in batches if necessary. Drain on paper towels.
3. Lightly coat a wok with some oil and stir-fry the scallions, garlic and ginger.
4. Add the deep-fried shrimp and the salt and pepper. Stir-fry for 20 seconds and serve hot with chopped cilantro sprinkled on top.