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Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe – Easy & Quick!

If you’re after a delicious and healthy seafood dish that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than this crispy air fryer shrimp recipe. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch when it comes to flavour. Perfect as a snack, appetiser, or even as a main course, air fryer shrimp are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

Gone are the days of deep-frying, which often results in greasy and unhealthy meals. The air fryer offers a healthier alternative, using significantly less oil while still yielding that beautifully crispy texture we all crave. This method retains the wonderful flavours of the shrimp while making them a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

To prepare this crispy air fryer shrimp, you will need:

• 500g (about 1 lb) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 100g (1 cup) breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 50g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
• Optional: lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

1. Rinse and Pat Dry: Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with kitchen paper to ensure they are moisture-free, which allows for better crisping.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

1. Set Up Your Breading Process: In one bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.

Step 3: Bread the Shrimp

1. Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer. Repeat until all shrimp are breaded.

Step 4: Air Fry the Shrimp

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) for 5 minutes. This ensures that the shrimp start to cook immediately upon being placed inside.

2. Arrange the Shrimp: Lightly spray the basket of the air fryer with cooking spray or drizzle some olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.

3. Cook: Air fry the shrimp for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done. If you want them extra crispy, feel free to add another minute or two.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that added touch. They pair beautifully with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, sweet chilli, or a zesty cocktail sauce.

Final Tips

• Choosing Your Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for a more substantial bite. Ensure they are tail-on for elegance if serving as appetizers.
• Customise the Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding a touch of cayenne pepper can give your shrimp an extra kick.
• Cooking Time: Depending on the size of the shrimp and your air fryer model, cooking times may vary slightly. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This crispy air fryer shrimp recipe is not only quick and easy, but it also delivers on taste without the extra oil and calories of traditional frying. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a midweek meal or impress guests at a gathering, these shrimp are sure to be a hit. So, grab your air fryer and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy!