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Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp in Air Fryer

Shrimp lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking for a delightful seafood dish that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly flavourful, look no further than crispy salt and pepper shrimp made in an air fryer. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between crunch and savoury goodness, making it an ideal starter, snack, or main dish. With its delightful medley of spices and textures, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why Air Frying?

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. They offer the crispiness of fried foods without the excess oil, making for a healthier meal without sacrificing flavour. Cooking shrimp in an air fryer diminishes the grease while enhancing the natural sweetness of the seafood, resulting in a dish that is both light and satisfying.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (preferably large for added texture)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon plain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• Fresh coriander or spring onions for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Method

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with kitchen paper. This step is vital as it removes excess moisture, ensuring maximum crispiness.

2. Make the Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, plain flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure that all the seasonings are evenly distributed.

3. Coat the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl with the coating mixture. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated in the dry mix.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and develop that desired crispy texture.

5. Air Fry the Shrimp: Place the coated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook the shrimp for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.

6. Serve: Once the shrimp are golden brown and crispy, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander or spring onions and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. The zesty lemon will elevate the flavours and offer a refreshing contrast to the rich spices.

Tip for Perfect Shrimp

For the best results, choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep a close eye on the cooking time. Adjust according to the size of your shrimp; smaller ones may require less time, while jumbo shrimp could need a minute or two longer.

Suggested Accompaniments

Crispy salt and pepper shrimp can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a full meal. They also make an excellent addition to a seafood platter or can be enjoyed as part of a tapas-style spread.

Conclusion

Crispy salt and pepper shrimp prepared in an air fryer is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavour and texture to your table. Easy to whip up and healthier than traditional frying methods, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Once you try this dish, it’s sure to become a favourite in your household, leaving everyone clamouring for more! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this crispy, delicious delight!

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