Air-Fryer Prawn Crackers: A Healthy, Crunchy Treat?

Prawn crackers are a popular snack in Southeast Asian cuisine, often deep-fried to achieve their signature puffy texture. However, with the advent of air fryers, people are now exploring healthier alternatives to traditional deep frying. Air fryers use hot air and a drizzle of oil to puff up prawn crackers without the excess oil and extra calories. This method is not only healthier but also quicker, easier to clean up, safer, and more environmentally friendly.

How to cook prawn crackers in an air fryer

Prawn crackers are a popular snack in Southeast Asian cuisine, often deep-fried to give them a crispy texture. However, you can also cook them in an air fryer for a healthier, less oily alternative. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook prawn crackers in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Prawn crackers (uncooked)
• Oil (optional)
• Sweet chilli sauce or vinegar dipping sauce (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to between 370-400°F (198-200°C). Preheating ensures the prawn crackers start cooking and puffing up as soon as they are added to the basket.
• Prepare the prawn crackers: While the air fryer is preheating, lay out the uncooked prawn crackers on a flat surface. You may need to cook them in batches if they are large to avoid overcrowding the basket.
• Lightly coat with oil (optional): Use a pastry brush or spray bottle to lightly coat each prawn cracker with oil. Olive oil, avocado oil, or another high-heat oil are good options. A very light coating is sufficient to ensure the crackers become crispy without becoming greasy.
• Arrange in the air fryer: Place the oiled prawn crackers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping. This allows for even cooking and puffing.
• Cook the prawn crackers: Cook the prawn crackers for about 2-5 minutes, depending on the size of the crackers and the model of your air fryer. Keep a close eye on them as they will puff up and cook quickly.
• Check for doneness: Remove the crackers from the air fryer once they have puffed up and turned a light golden colour. They should be crispy and airy.
• Serve: Allow the prawn crackers to cool for a minute before serving. They can be enjoyed as a snack on their own or with a dipping sauce such as sweet chilli sauce or a vinegar-based dip.

Tips:

• Choose the right oil: Opt for high-heat oils like olive oil or avocado oil, which can withstand the air fryer's high temperatures without smoking or altering the taste of the crackers.
• Even coating: Ensure an even coating of oil on the prawn crackers to avoid greasiness and promote even crisping.
• Avoid overcrowding: Cook the prawn crackers in a single layer with space between each piece. Overcrowding prevents hot air from circulating freely, leading to uneven cooking and puffing.
• Monitor closely: Prawn crackers cook quickly and can easily burn, so stay close and monitor the process.
• Shake or turn: If your air fryer doesn't evenly distribute heat, you may need to shake the basket or use tongs to flip the crackers halfway through cooking for even results.
• Batch cooking: If you have a large quantity of prawn crackers, cook them in batches to maintain the quality and consistency of the snack.
• Cool before serving: Let the prawn crackers cool for a few minutes after cooking. They will continue to crisp up as they cool, achieving the perfect texture.

The health benefits of air-fried prawn crackers

Air fryers have gained popularity as a healthier alternative to deep-fat frying. They use hot air and a minimal amount of oil to cook food, resulting in a crunchy, crispy exterior. This cooking method has several benefits when compared to traditional deep-fat frying, and these advantages also apply to prawn crackers cooked in an air fryer.

Reduced Fat and Calorie Intake:

Air fryers use significantly less oil than deep-fat frying, resulting in food that is substantially lower in fat and calories. This is especially beneficial for prawn crackers, as they are typically deep-fried and can absorb excess oil. Air-frying prawn crackers can reduce the amount of unhealthy fats consumed without sacrificing the crispy texture and taste.

Weight Management:

Deep-fried foods are high in fat and calories, contributing to weight gain and obesity. By swapping deep-fried prawn crackers for air-fried ones, you can lower your calorie intake and promote healthier weight management.

Reduced Acrylamide Levels:

Acrylamide is a chemical compound formed when starchy foods like potatoes are cooked at high temperatures. It is a known carcinogen, potentially increasing the risk of various cancers. Air frying prawn crackers can reduce acrylamide levels by up to 90% compared to deep-fat frying, making it a healthier option.

Safer Cooking Method:

Deep-fat frying involves heating a large container of oil, which can pose safety risks due to the possibility of spills, splashes, or accidental contact with hot oil. Air fryers, when used correctly, do not have the same hazards. They reduce the risk of burns and fires associated with hot oil, making them a safer option, especially in households with children.

Nutrient Preservation:

Convection heat used in air fryers may help preserve certain nutrients during the cooking process, such as vitamin C and protective plant compounds called polyphenols. This means that air-fried prawn crackers may retain more nutrients than their deep-fried counterparts.

While air-fried prawn crackers offer these health benefits, it is important to remember that they are still a processed snack and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of cooking methods.

How to prevent prawn crackers from flying around the air fryer

To prevent prawn crackers from flying around the air fryer, it is recommended that you add a lid to the appliance. This is because uncooked prawn crackers are very light and can easily fly around the Air Fryer, potentially touching the heating element. If your Air Fryer doesn't have a lid, you can cover the top of the basket with aluminium foil to prevent the prawn crackers from flying around.

In addition, you can try to weigh the prawn crackers down by cooking them in batches, ensuring they are not overlapping, and are in a single layer. This will allow for even cooking and puffing, and prevent them from flying around.

How to store cooked prawn crackers

Prawn crackers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, there are several ways to store them.

Firstly, let the crackers cool down completely before storing them. Prawn crackers can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispiness. If you want to keep them for longer, you can store them in the freezer using a freezer-friendly container.

Another option is to seal the original bag of prawn crackers tightly. This will help keep them fresh for a few days.

If you want to revive slightly soft prawn crackers, you can put them in the oven at a low temperature (60-70 degrees Celsius) for 6-8 minutes. Alternatively, you can briefly reheat them in the air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.

What to serve with prawn crackers

Prawn crackers are a versatile snack and side dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on what to serve with them:

Dipping Sauces

Prawn crackers pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Sweet chilli sauce is a popular choice, adding a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the crackers. A vinegar-based dipping sauce, such as a simple mixture of vinegar, sugar, and chilli flakes, can also complement the prawn crackers nicely. Other options include a spicy chutney or a soy sauce-based dip.

Toppings

You can also top prawn crackers with various ingredients to create more substantial bites. For example, a mixture of bean sprouts, coriander, and lime juice can be spooned on top of the crackers for a refreshing and flavourful combination. Another option is to top them with Malaysian curry tuna for an extra punch of flavour.

As a Side Dish

Prawn crackers can also be served as a side dish or garnish to accompany a variety of meals, particularly Southeast Asian dishes. They add a delightful crunch and flavour to these meals.

Drinks

As prawn crackers are often served as a snack or appetiser, they can be paired with a variety of drinks. A crisp white wine or a refreshing beer could complement the crackers well. For non-alcoholic options, a fruity cocktail or mocktail, or even a simple glass of iced tea, could be good choices.

Other Snacks

Finally, prawn crackers can be part of a larger spread of snacks. Some ideas for complementary snacks include spring rolls, dumplings, or other types of chips or crackers.

Frequently asked questions