Szechuan Pepper and Lime Grilled Shrimp

Szechuan Pepper and Lime Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of Szechuan pepper and the tanginess of lime with succulent grilled shrimp. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of heat and a burst of citrus in their meals. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons of Szechuan peppercorns
• 2 limes, juiced and zested
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marinade:

In a small skillet, toast the Szechuan peppercorns over medium heat until fragrant. Remove from heat and grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.

2. Marinate the shrimp:

In a bowl, combine the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, and the ground Szechuan pepper. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are incorporated. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Preheat the grill:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing red. If using a gas grill, preheat for about 10 minutes with the lid closed.

4. Grill the shrimp:

Remove the shrimp from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each shrimp. This will ensure even cooking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.

5. Serve and enjoy:

Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with some fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve the Szechuan Pepper and Lime Grilled Shrimp as an appetizer or as a main course with steamed rice and a side of grilled vegetables.

This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors, with the Szechuan pepper adding a subtle heat and the lime providing a refreshing citrusy kick. The marinade helps to tenderize the shrimp and infuse them with incredible taste. So, fire up your grill and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!