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Air Fried Popcorn Prawns with Burnt Chilli Mayo: A Crispy Delight

When it comes to seafood, few things are as delightful as prawns, especially when they are crisped to perfection. Enter air fried popcorn prawns, a deliciously easy recipe that elevates this classic dish while offering a healthier twist. Paired with a smoky burnt chilli mayo, this dish is sure to tantalise your taste buds and impress at your next gathering.

Why Air Frying?

Air frying is a fantastic cooking method that uses hot air circulation to achieve that crispy texture we all crave, without the need for copious amounts of oil. This modern kitchen appliance allows you to enjoy fried foods with far less fat and fewer calories compared to traditional deep frying. The result? A guilt-free indulgence that still delivers on taste and crunch.

Ingredients

For the Popcorn Prawns:

• 500g raw prawns, peeled and deveined
• 100g plain flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 200g panko breadcrumbs
• Olive oil spray

For the Burnt Chilli Mayo:

• 100g mayonnaise
• 1 or 2 red chillies (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon juice, to flavour

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Prawns

1. Marinate the Prawns: In a mixing bowl, combine the prawns with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow them to marinate for about 15 minutes. This will infuse the prawns with flavour and set the stage for a delicious dish.

2. Set Up the Breading Station: Spread the flour on one plate, the beaten eggs on another, and the panko breadcrumbs on a third. This three-step process ensures a perfectly crispy coating.

Step 2: Bread the Prawns

1. Dredge each prawn in flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Dip the floured prawn in the beaten eggs, coating it completely.
3. Finally, coat the prawn in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick well.

Step 3: Air Fry the Prawns

1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
2. Arrange the breaded prawns in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
3. Spray them lightly with olive oil to enhance crispiness.
4. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Burnt Chilli Mayo

1. Prepare the Chilli: In a small pan over medium heat, char the red chillies until they are blistered and slightly burnt, turning them occasionally for uniform charring. Allow them to cool, then chop them finely.

2. Mix the Mayo: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped chillies, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning to taste and mix until well combined.

Serving Suggestions

Once your air-fried popcorn prawns are ready, plate them up and serve with a generous dollop of the burnt chilli mayo for dipping. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, a refreshing cucumber and mint raita, or simple slices of lemon for squeezing over the top.

Conclusion

Air fried popcorn prawns with burnt chilli mayo are not just a delightful snack; they’re a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a special family meal, this recipe will undoubtedly impress your guests with its deliciousness and the depth of flavour from the homemade mayo.

So why not swap your deep-fried take on this classic and embrace the air fryer revolution? Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every crunchy bite, guilt-free!

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