Air fryer shrimp tempura is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions. This recipe uses an air fryer to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and succulent. Follow these detailed steps for a satisfying meal.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- All-purpose flour or cornstarch (for coating)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional: finely chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
#### Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Fork or pastry brush
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Shrimp:**
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl.
2. **Seasoning:**
- Season the shrimp with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. **Coating Mix:**
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour or cornstarch with panko breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the mixture is well combined for a smooth coating.
4. **Dredging Shrimp:**
- Dip each shrimp in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, coating them thoroughly. Gently shake off any excess to avoid clumps in your air fryer basket.
5. **Preheating Air Fryer:**
- Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 2-3 minutes.
- Ensure the basket is clean and dry before using it.
6. **Frying Shrimp Tempura:**
- Carefully place the coated shrimp into the preheated air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Air-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through.
7. **Checking Temperature:**
- Use a fork to gently check if the shrimp are fully cooked; they should be opaque with no pinkness in the middle.
8. **Draining and Serving:**
- Once done, carefully remove the tempura from the air fryer basket using tongs or a slotted spoon.
- Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. **Garnishing (Optional):**
- Garnish with finely chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and aesthetic appeal.
10. **Serving:**
- Serve the shrimp tempura immediately while they are hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauce such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a homemade version.
### Tips:
- Ensure your air fryer is preheated to the correct temperature before adding the shrimp.
- Use high-quality vegetable oil for frying to maintain flavor and texture.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking and ensure crispy tempura.
By following these steps, you can enjoy delicious, crispy shrimp tempura using your air fryer, making it a healthier yet tasty option.