Frying Raw Shrimp In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Yes, you can cook raw shrimp in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy method that gives you plump, tender, and juicy shrimp. It is also a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods as it uses less oil.

Seasoning and spices

Spicy and Savoury

For a spicy kick, you can use spices like cayenne pepper, red chilli flakes, black pepper, or smoked paprika. Smoked paprika will give your shrimp a smoky flavour, while regular or sweet paprika will result in a milder, slightly sweet taste. Black pepper adds warmth and peppery heat to the dish.

Herbs and Savoury

For a savoury flavour, garlic powder and onion powder are excellent choices. They provide a balanced savoury taste that pairs well with shrimp. You can also add dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, or dried parsley. Fresh parsley can be used as a garnish for a pop of colour and added freshness.

Salty and Umami

Salt is crucial to bringing out the flavours in your dish and enhancing the natural umami taste of shrimp. Use kosher salt, sea salt, or regular table salt to season your shrimp before air frying.

Tangy and Zesty

Lemon is a great way to add some tanginess and brightness to your shrimp. You can use lemon juice and zest to marinate the shrimp before cooking, or simply serve lemon wedges on the side for a spritz of citrus.

Buttery

Cooking shrimp in butter can add richness and enhance the savoury flavours. You can create a garlic butter sauce by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, garlic salt, black pepper, and optionally, Parmesan cheese and basil. Toss your shrimp in this buttery sauce for a decadent treat.

Spicy and Savoury Blends

If you want a blend of spices that is both savoury and spicy, consider using Cajun seasoning, Old Bay Seasoning, or blackening seasoning. These blends typically include garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and other herbs and spices, providing a bold and flavourful profile to your shrimp.

Breading and Coatings

For a crispy texture, you can coat your shrimp in a breading before air frying. Dip the shrimp in an egg wash, then coat them in seasoned breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, or a combination of panko and Parmesan cheese. This will give your shrimp an extra crunch and a golden colour when air-fried.

Serving Suggestions

• Shrimp Tacos: Serve your shrimp in soft or hard shell tacos with salsa, guacamole, and your choice of toppings.
• Shrimp Salad: Top your favourite salad greens with air-fried shrimp for a boost of protein.
• Shrimp Sandwich: Create a shrimp sandwich or po'boy, adding toppings like spicy mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes.
• Shrimp Pasta: Toss your air-fried shrimp with your favourite pasta or use them in a shrimp scampi dish.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve your shrimp with various dipping sauces, such as hot honey sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, or marinara sauce.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of spices and seasonings to find your perfect flavour profile for air-fried shrimp!

Air fryer temperature

Yes, you can cook raw shrimp in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy way to prepare shrimp, and it only takes a few minutes. The temperature and cooking time will depend on the brand of the air fryer and the size of the shrimp.

For example, one source recommends cooking large or extra-large shrimp in an air fryer at 200C/400F for 7-8 minutes. Another source recommends cooking jumbo shrimp at 400°F for five to six minutes.

It is important to note that you should not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook the shrimp in a single layer and in batches if necessary. Additionally, flipping the shrimp halfway through ensures they are crisp on both sides.

Air fryer cooking time

Yes, you can cook raw shrimp in an air fryer. It's a great way to cook them, in fact, because they're so easy to undercook or overcook using other methods.

The cooking time for shrimp in an air fryer depends on the brand of the air fryer, the size of the shrimp, and whether you're cooking them from frozen.

If you're cooking fresh, large or jumbo shrimp, the cooking time is typically between 5 and 8 minutes at 400°F. If you're cooking frozen shrimp, you'll need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.

• Cook the shrimp in a single layer and in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
• Flip the shrimp halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Check the shrimp at the 6-minute mark if you're using a larger air fryer.
• If you're cooking frozen shrimp, make sure they're completely thawed and use a paper towel to soak up any excess moisture before cooking.

Shrimp size

When air frying shrimp, it is important to ensure that they are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket. They should be arranged in a single layer, and if necessary, cooked in batches. This will ensure that they cook evenly and don't become overdone on certain sides. Flipping the shrimp halfway through the cooking process will also help to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture on both sides.

The cooking time for air fryer shrimp can range from 5 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp and the brand of the air fryer. For example, larger shrimp may take 8-9 minutes to cook, while medium-sized shrimp can take around 6 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on the shrimp while they are cooking and adjust the time as needed to avoid overcooking.

In addition to size, the type of shrimp used can also affect the cooking time. Frozen shrimp can be used, but they should be completely thawed and patted dry before cooking. Peeled and deveined shrimp are also recommended to save time on preparation.

Frozen shrimp

Yes, you can cook frozen shrimp in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Preparation:

First, decide whether you want to cook the shrimp with or without the shell. Leaving the shells on while air frying can add some flavour and give you plumper, better-looking shrimp. However, removing the shells before cooking will make it easier to season the shrimp. If you decide to leave the shells on, you can always clean them up once the shrimp are cooked.

Next, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. If you are cooking the shrimp without the shell, you can add a little oil and your choice of seasonings and mix until the shrimp are covered. You can also add the seasonings after the shrimp are cooked.

Cooking:

Preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. You may need to cook the shrimp in batches.

Cook the shrimp for 5-10 minutes at 400°F, or 6-7 minutes at 350°F. Shake the basket halfway through. The shrimp are done when they are pink/orange in colour, opaque all the way through, and form a clear 'C' shape.

Serving:

Air fryer shrimp can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Shrimp salad: Use the cooked shrimp in a shrimp salad or over your favourite greens.
• Shrimp sandwich: Make a sandwich with cold shrimp, spicy mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes.
• Shrimp tacos: Add the shrimp to soft or hard shell tacos, along with salsa and guacamole.
• Shrimp pasta: Toss the shrimp with your favourite pasta.
• Sauces: Serve the shrimp with a variety of dipping sauces, such as hot honey sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, ketchup, or cocktail sauce.

Storage:

Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place leftovers in a ziplock bag and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Tips:

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
• Flip the shrimp halfway through for crispness on both sides.
• Change up the flavours by experimenting with different seasonings, such as lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or Old Bay seasoning.
• For extra crispness, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs and/or parmesan cheese on the shrimp before cooking.

Frequently asked questions