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Crispy and Delicious: Air Fryer Tempura Shrimp Recipe

Tempura shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the lightness of the batter with the succulent texture of the prawns, creating a mouth-watering experience. Traditionally deep-fried, this Japanese delicacy can be reimagined using an air fryer, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture. The air fryer not only cuts down on the amount of oil used but also provides a crisp finish that is simply irresistible. In this article, we’ll guide you through making air fryer tempura shrimp that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To make delicious air fryer tempura shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:

• 450 grams (about 1 pound) of large raw prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour, divided
• 1/2 cup of cornflour (cornstarch)
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup of cold sparkling water
• Optional: Japanese seasoning (shichimi togarashi) for added flavour
• Cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil for the air fryer

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Prawns

Begin by rinsing the peeled and deveined prawns under cold water. Gently pat them dry with kitchen paper. To enhance the flavour and texture, you may choose to lightly dust the prawns with a tablespoon of flour. This helps the batter adhere better.

Step 2: Make the Tempura Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining flour, cornflour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cold sparkling water until well mixed. Gradually add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring lightly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should remain a bit lumpy for the lightest texture.

Step 3: Coat the Prawns

Dip each prawn into the tempura batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing them on a plate. If you’re using Japanese seasoning, sprinkle a bit on top of the prawns at this stage for an extra kick.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for approximately 5 minutes. Preheating ensures a crispy texture and an even cooking process.

Step 5: Air Fry the Tempura Shrimp

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully arrange the coated prawns in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other to allow for proper air circulation.

Air fry the prawns for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them; cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer’s model and the size of the prawns. You’ll know they are ready when they are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the tempura shrimp from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or a tangy ponzu sauce, and enjoy your crisp, air-fried tempura shrimp!

Tips for Success

1. Temperature Control: Ensure your sparkling water is very cold. This helps to create a light and airy batter.
2. Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer. It’s better to cook in batches if necessary to maintain the crispiness of the shrimp.
3. Accompaniments: Tempura shrimp can be served with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or even used in sushi rolls for a delightful combination.

Conclusion

Making tempura shrimp in an air fryer is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. The result is golden, crispy prawns that are as enjoyable to eat as they are simple to prepare. Whether for a special occasion, a family dinner, or simply a weekend treat, this air fryer tempura shrimp recipe is sure to become a favourite in your household. So fire up your air fryer and start cooking up some deliciousness!

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