Steaming Shrimp With An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a great way to cook shrimp, whether you're making a main meal or a quick appetizer. They're also a healthy alternative to deep-fried shrimp, as they use little to no oil. You can cook shrimp in an air fryer in under 10 minutes, and they come out tender and juicy every time. But can you steam shrimp in an air fryer?

How long to steam shrimp in an air fryer

Steaming shrimp in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to cook shrimp, with most recipes taking under 10 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the shrimp, the brand of the air fryer, and the power level of the machine.

For example, large shrimp will take 7-9 minutes to cook in an air fryer at 400ºF/200ºC, whereas smaller shrimp will take less time. Similarly, a more powerful air fryer will cook shrimp faster than a less powerful one.

It's important to note that shrimp can be finicky to work with and are easily undercooked or overcooked. To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to cook the shrimp in a single layer and in batches if necessary. Additionally, flipping the shrimp halfway through the cooking process can help ensure they are crisp on both sides.

When cooking frozen shrimp in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that they are completely thawed before cooking. For raw frozen shrimp, the cooking time can be up to 10 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp and the model of the air fryer.

What size shrimp to use

When it comes to choosing the right size shrimp for your air fryer, it's important to consider both your personal preferences and the specific instructions of the recipe you're following. Here are some detailed guidelines and tips to help you select the perfect shrimp size for air frying:

Shrimp Size Options

Shrimp typically come in various sizes, ranging from small to jumbo. Each size has its own unique characteristics and cooking requirements:

• Small shrimp: Small shrimp are ideal if you want to reduce the cooking time. They tend to cook faster than larger shrimp but may be more prone to overcooking.
• Medium shrimp: Medium-sized shrimp offer a balance between cooking time and size. They are a good option if you want slightly larger portions without a significant increase in cooking time.
• Large shrimp: Large shrimp are a popular choice for air frying as they are naturally juicier and have a more substantial size. They may require a slightly longer cooking time but often yield delicious results.
• Jumbo shrimp: Jumbo shrimp are the largest option and are perfect if you want a hearty portion. They take a bit longer to cook but are worth the wait for a luxurious shrimp dinner.

Cooking Time Adjustments

When using small or medium shrimp, it's important to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results:

• Reduce cooking time: When using small or medium shrimp, reduce the cooking time specified in the recipe. This will prevent overcooking and ensure that your shrimp turn out juicy and tender.
• Single layer: Regardless of the shrimp size, always arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent overcrowding.
• Batch cooking: If you have a large quantity of shrimp, consider cooking them in batches. This allows for better air circulation and more consistent cooking results.
• Flip halfway: For even cooking and a crisp texture, it's recommended to flip the shrimp halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that both sides of the shrimp are cooked evenly.

Recipe Recommendations

• Appetizers: For shrimp appetizers, such as shrimp cocktails or shrimp dips, smaller or medium shrimp are a good option. They are easier to eat as finger food and provide a tasty bite-sized option.
• Main dishes: For main course dishes, like shrimp scampi or shrimp tacos, larger or jumbo shrimp are ideal. They provide a heartier portion and can be the star of the dish.
• Salads: When adding shrimp to salads, consider using medium or large shrimp. They provide a good balance of protein and vegetables, ensuring a satisfying and nutritious meal.
• Pasta dishes: For pasta dishes, like shrimp Alfredo or shrimp pesto pasta, large or extra-large shrimp are a great choice. They complement the pasta nicely and provide a generous helping of shrimp in each bite.

In conclusion, the size of shrimp you choose for your air fryer will depend on your personal preferences, the recipe you're following, and the desired cooking time. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, arrange shrimp in a single layer, and consider batch cooking for larger quantities. Enjoy experimenting with different shrimp sizes to find your perfect air-fried shrimp feast!

How to season shrimp in an air fryer

Firstly, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This is an important step to ensure that the shrimp are not soggy and that the seasoning will stick to the shrimp.

Next, add the shrimp to a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. You can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil. Toss the shrimp in the oil until they are evenly coated.

Now it's time to add the seasonings. For a classic shrimp flavour, you can use lemon juice, kosher salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Alternatively, you could use lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, or blackened seasoning. You could also add some parmesan cheese for extra crispiness. Mix the shrimp with the seasonings until they are evenly coated.

Once the shrimp are seasoned, place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer, as this will cause the shrimp to cook unevenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.

Finally, air fry the shrimp at 200 degrees Celsius for 7 to 8 minutes. For smaller shrimp, reduce the cooking time by a minute or two. For larger shrimp, you may need to add an extra minute. Flip the shrimp halfway through to ensure they are crispy on both sides.

What to serve with steamed shrimp

Steamed shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, ranging from veggie sides to creamy pastas, starchy sides, fresh salads, and more. Here are some ideas to serve with steamed shrimp:

Veggie Sides:

• Oven-roasted vegetables: Customise with your choice of veggies such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini.
• Corn on the cob: A classic crowd-pleaser that can be roasted in the oven or grilled.
• Roasted asparagus with parmesan: A simple recipe that pairs well with garlic shrimp.
• Lemon Parmesan Asparagus: A delicious way to serve asparagus, a classic spring vegetable, ready in under 20 minutes.
• Oven-roasted broccoli: A healthy and simple side dish to balance out your meal.

Starchy Sides:

• Easy coconut rice: A light, fluffy, and flavorful side that complements Thai, South Asian, and tropical dishes.
• Greek lemon-roasted baby potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, packed with Greek flavours of lemon, garlic, and herbs.
• Baked sweet potato: Soft, tender, and naturally sweet, it's a delicious and effortless side dish.
• Cheesy garlic bread: Crispy and tender at the same time, with a garlic butter topping and melted cheese.

Salads:

• Cucumber and tomato salad: A simple and refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Roquefort pear salad: A tangy and fruity salad with blue cheese and caramelised pecans, paired with a mustard vinaigrette.
• Caprese frittata: Light and fluffy, laced with basil, and topped with blistered balsamic tomatoes and melted mozzarella cheese.
• Mediterranean couscous salad: Healthy, flavorful, and easy to make, with couscous, fresh veggies, and feta.
• Chickpea Greek salad: A fresh, healthy, and colourful salad packed with Mediterranean ingredients and superfoods.

Pastas:

• Shrimp and burst cherry tomato pasta: A classic combination of perfectly cooked spaghetti with shrimp and tomatoes.
• Quick and easy pesto penne pasta: A simple Italian dish made with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes.
• Lemon butter pasta: A delicious twist on classic buttered noodles, ready in just 15 minutes.
• Spinach and orzo salad: A light salad that pairs well with shrimp, adding some greens and carbs to your meal.

How to store leftover shrimp

Shrimp is a delicate food, and it doesn't stay good for very long, so it's important to store leftover shrimp properly. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover shrimp:

Refrigerating Leftover Shrimp:

• Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature. Don't leave cooked shrimp at room temperature for more than 1-2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
• Place the shrimp in an airtight container or a heavy-duty storage bag.
• Ensure your refrigerator is set to 40°Fahrenheit or lower, and place the shrimp in the coldest part of the fridge.
• Properly stored shrimp will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Leftover Shrimp:

• Place the shrimp in a heavy-duty freezer bag or wrap them tightly in foil and place them in an airtight container.
• Label and date the packaging before storing in the freezer.
• Frozen shrimp will stay good for 3-6 months.
• Defrost frozen shrimp in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth, and make sure to cook and consume the shrimp within 2 hours of defrosting.

Reheating Leftover Shrimp:

• You can reheat shrimp in the microwave, skillet, or steamer.
• If using the microwave, place the shrimp in a microwavable dish, cover, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• If using a skillet or steamer, reheat until crispy.

Signs That Shrimp Has Gone Bad:

• Shrimp that has gone bad will have a sour smell, a dull colour, and a slimy texture.
• If your shrimp has any of these signs, discard it immediately to prevent food poisoning.

Frequently asked questions