via Bon Appetit 

Ingredients
SERVINGS: 4
1½ pound shell-on large shrimp or prawns
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, ground
1 Fresno chile, thinly sliced, seeds removed if desired
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves with tender stems

Preparation
ACTIVE: 15 MIN TOTAL: 15 MIN
Using kitchen shears, cut along the backs of prawns through shells and just deep enough to expose veins; remove veins. Pat shrimp dry. Whisk cornstarch, black pepper, and ¾ tsp. salt in a large bowl; add shrimp and toss to coat.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in 2 batches, fry prawns until golden, crisp, and cooked through, about 1 minute per side. Transfer to paper towels and let drain, then toss in a medium bowl with Sichuan peppercorns and remaining ¾ tsp. salt. Add chile and cilantro to bowl and toss to combine.