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Easy Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp: A Delightful and Healthier Approach

If you’re on the lookout for a quick, hassle-free, and delicious meal option, look no further than air fryer breaded shrimp. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying, all while retaining that wonderful crunch we all love. In this article, we’ll take you through a straightforward recipe that will have you indulging in perfectly crispy shrimp in no time.

Why Choose Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp?

The air fryer has revolutionised the way we cook, providing the satisfaction of crispy textures without the excess oil. Air frying shrimp results in a delightful texture, giving you the crispiness of deep-fried shrimp but packed with significantly less fat and calories. Plus, it’s incredibly quick, making it the ideal option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this easy air fryer breaded shrimp recipe, you will need:

• 450g (1 lb) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 100g (1 cup) breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
• 50g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds an extra depth of flavour)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray or a small amount of oil for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Clean your shrimp: Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the breading adhere better.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

1. Create a three-step breading station:
   • Flour: In one shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Egg: In a second bowl, beat the two eggs.
   • Breadcrumbs: In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, and additional seasoning if desired.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

1. Breading the shrimp:
   • Dip each shrimp first into the flour, ensuring it is completely coated, and shake off any excess.
   • Next, transfer the shrimp to the beaten eggs, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
   • Finally, coat the shrimp in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Repeat this process with all the shrimp.

Step 4: Air Fry the Shrimp

1. Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 5 minutes.

2. Arrange the shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

3. Cooking time: Air fry the shrimp for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may wish to pause halfway through to shake the basket gently, promoting even cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serving suggestions: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with a zesty dipping sauce, such as a homemade tartar sauce or a spicy cocktail sauce. Add a side of fresh salad or crispy slaw for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Easy air fryer breaded shrimp is a wonderfully scrumptious dish that anyone can make at home. With its simple preparation, quick cooking time, and the health benefits of air frying, it’s a recipe that deserves a place in your culinary repertoire. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, entertaining guests, or even as a delightful appetiser, this breaded shrimp will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the crunch without the guilt!

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