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Easy Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp: A Delicious and Hassle-Free Delight

Shrimp lovers, rejoice! If you’ve been craving a crispy, golden-brown seafood treat, look no further than this easy air fryer breaded shrimp recipe. Not only is it straightforward to prepare, but cooking shrimp in an air fryer reduces the need for excess oil, making it a healthier option than traditional frying methods. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to achieving perfectly breaded shrimp with minimal hassle and maximum flavour.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have surged in popularity over recent years, and for good reason. They offer a quick and efficient way to achieve that coveted crunch without the mess of deep frying. An air fryer circulates hot air around the food, producing a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Plus, the clean-up is generally easier than using a traditional frying pan.

Ingredients

To make easy breaded shrimp in your air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off, depending on preference)
• 100g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 150g breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Spray oil for cooking

Optional Seasoning:

• Fresh herbs (like parsley or coriander), finely chopped
• Lemon zest for a bit of zing

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Clean the Shrimp: If you haven’t done so already, rinse the raw shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere better.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

1. Prepare Three Bowls:
   • In the first bowl, place the plain flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
   • In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
   • In the third bowl, add the breadcrumbs, and if desired, mix in any fresh herbs or lemon zest for added flavour.

Step 3: Bread the Shrimp

1. Coat the Shrimp:
   • Start by dredging each shrimp in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
   • Next, dip the floured shrimp into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Finally, coat the shrimp in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F) and preheat for about 5 minutes. This step is vital for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

1. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.

2. Air Fry: Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are golden and cooked through, shaking the basket halfway through cooking for even browning. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve them hot. They pair wonderfully with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a side of tartare sauce, or your favourite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Shrimp

• Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp – just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to customise the flavours in your breadcrumb mix. Adding spices like cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning can elevate your dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For maximum crunch, cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming, which inhibits crispness.

Conclusion

Easy air fryer breaded shrimp can be on your dining table in no time, providing a crispy, mouth-watering treat with far less oil and fuss than traditional frying. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner, a party appetiser, or even a tapas-style sharing platter. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful crunch that the air fryer brings to this seafood favourite!

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