Frying Frozen Shrimp Tempura: Air Fryer Tips And Tricks

Tempura shrimp is a popular dish that is usually deep-fried. However, with an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture without the added fat and oil. The cooking time for frozen shrimp tempura in an air fryer varies depending on the brand and model, but it typically ranges between 8 to 12 minutes at temperatures between 360°F to 400°F. Some recipes recommend flipping the shrimp halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.

The best temperature to cook frozen shrimp tempura in an air fryer

There is nothing quite like the taste and texture of crispy shrimp tempura. This popular Japanese dish is usually deep-fried, but you can get the same delicious results with an air fryer.

The Best Temperature

The ideal temperature to cook frozen shrimp tempura in an air fryer is between 375°F and 390°F. This temperature range ensures that the outer and inner parts of the shrimp tempura cook evenly, resulting in a crunchy exterior and tender interior.

Cooking Instructions

First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F-390°F. While the air fryer is preheating, take your frozen shrimp tempura out of the freezer and arrange them in a single layer on the air fryer basket or tray. There is no need to thaw the shrimp or grease the basket/tray with oil or cooking spray. Just ensure that the shrimp are not overcrowded; you may need to cook them in multiple batches.

Once the air fryer has preheated, place the basket or tray inside and cook the shrimp for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook.

Tips

• If you're using a wet batter, it's important to ensure that the batter sticks to the shrimp before placing them in the air fryer. You can use tools like an air fryer silicone mat or grilling pan to help with this process.
• For an extra crisp, you can spray the shrimp with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil before placing them in the air fryer.
• If you have any leftover shrimp tempura, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Dipping Sauces

Shrimp tempura is often served with a dipping sauce on the side. Some popular options include:

• Kikkoman Tempura Dipping Sauce
• Best of Thailand Sweet Chili Sauce
• Healthy Boy Thai Variety Dipping Sauce Set (Seafood, Thai Spicy, and Sweet Chili)

How long to cook frozen shrimp tempura in an air fryer

Frozen shrimp tempura is a quick and easy meal to make in your air fryer, and it only takes about 10 minutes to cook!

Step-by-Step Guide:

Arrange the Shrimp in the Air Fryer Basket:

Place the frozen shrimp tempura in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. This will allow them to cook evenly.

Set the Temperature and Timer:

Set the air fryer temperature to between 375°F and 400°F. The ideal temperature may vary slightly depending on your air fryer and personal preference. Set the timer for 8 to 12 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp:

Place the basket in the air fryer and let it cook! There is no need to preheat the air fryer beforehand. You also don't need to add any extra oil or cooking spray to the basket.

Flip Halfway Through:

To ensure even cooking and crisping, flip the shrimp halfway through the cooking process.

Cool and Serve:

Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve them with your favourite dipping sauce, or add them to dishes like ramen, udon, or rice bowls.

Tips:

• Keep an eye on the shrimp towards the end of the cooking cycle, as air fryer models and heating instructions may vary.
• If you're cooking a large batch, you may need to cook the shrimp in multiple batches to ensure even cooking.
• For the best results, cook the shrimp from frozen. Defrosting them beforehand can change the texture, and the batter may not crisp as well.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy shrimp tempura!

How to arrange frozen shrimp tempura in an air fryer

To arrange frozen shrimp tempura in an air fryer, first, preheat the air fryer to 375°F–400°F. Then, place the frozen shrimp tempura in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket. Finally, air fry for 8–12 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through.

• Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F–400°F. Different recipes suggest different temperatures within this range, so you may need to experiment to find your preference.
• Arrange the shrimp: Place the frozen shrimp tempura in the air fryer basket or on the tray. Make sure the shrimp are in a single layer and not overlapping. It is important that the shrimp are not overcrowded so that they cook evenly. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Air fry: Cook the shrimp for 8–12 minutes at 375°F–400°F, flipping them over halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time may depend on your particular air fryer, so keep an eye on the shrimp to avoid overcooking.
• Serve: Allow the shrimp to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. They can be served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, or added to dishes like ramen, udon, or rice.

Note that there is no need to thaw the shrimp before cooking, and no additional oil is required.

The best brand of frozen shrimp tempura

Overview

Frozen shrimp tempura is a convenient option for those craving a quick and easy meal or snack. While there are several brands available, the quality can vary significantly. I've scoured the internet for reviews and recommendations to determine the best brand of frozen shrimp tempura. Here's a summary of the top options:

Trader Joe's Shrimp Tempura

Trader Joe's Shrimp Tempura stands out among its competitors. In a taste test by Sporked, it was declared the best frozen shrimp tempura by far. The shrimp are described as firm, snappy, and sweet, with a mild oceanic flavour rather than a fishy one. The tempura coating is well-seasoned, puffy, and fluffy, achieving a golden brown colour when cooked. Additionally, it comes with a fantastic dipping sauce that tastes like the sweet soy sauce typically served with tempura in Japanese restaurants.

Aqua Star Butterfly Crunchy Shrimp

Aqua Star Butterfly Crunchy Shrimp is another excellent choice. Based in Seattle, Aqua Star is one of the largest frozen seafood retail brands in the country. Their shrimp are mildly sweet, maintaining their shape and white and pink colouring even under the crunchy skin. The golden panko crust snaps, crackles, and pops with each bite, making it a truly addictive option.

SeaPak Tempura Shrimp

SeaPak is a well-known brand in the frozen seafood aisle, and their Tempura Shrimp is a solid option. It has received positive reviews for its crispy coating and flavourful shrimp.

Cooking Instructions

When it comes to cooking frozen shrimp tempura in an air fryer, the process is relatively simple and consistent across brands. Preheat your air fryer to between 375°F and 400°F. Place the frozen shrimp directly into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. There is no need to grease the basket with oil or cooking spray. Cook for about 11-12 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

Frozen shrimp tempura is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetiser, snack, or part of a main course. It pairs well with various dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce, Kikkoman Tempura Dipping Sauce, or the included soy sauce that comes with some brands.

Where to Buy

You can find frozen shrimp tempura at various retailers, including Trader Joe's, Costco, Target, Amazon, and your local grocery store.

While there are several options available, Trader Joe's Shrimp Tempura is widely considered the best in terms of flavour, texture, and the quality of their dipping sauce. However, Aqua Star Butterfly Crunchy Shrimp and SeaPak Tempura Shrimp are also excellent choices, depending on your personal preferences and availability in your area.

How to reheat leftover shrimp tempura

If you have any leftover shrimp tempura, you can reheat it the next day and still enjoy it crispy and tasty. Here are some tips and instructions to ensure your reheated shrimp tempura is as good as new:

Preparation

• It is important to note that shrimp tempura is best enjoyed fresh, and reheating it may affect its texture and taste. However, if you have leftovers, there are ways to reheat it while maintaining its crispness.
• Spread the shrimp tempura in a single layer. This ensures even heating and helps prevent sogginess.
• Use a cooling rack placed on top of a sheet pan to catch any oil drips. The rack is important as it maximises evaporation and minimises surface contact, reducing the chances of a soggy texture.
• Bring the shrimp tempura close to room temperature before reheating.

Reheating Methods

• Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F. Place the shrimp tempura in the air fryer basket or on the tray, ensuring they don't overlap. Reheat for about 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the shrimp tempura on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet. Reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Toaster Oven: Follow the same instructions as for the oven.
• Deep Fryer: Heat your oil to 375°F. Refry the shrimp tempura for about a minute.

Tips

• Avoid overcrowding during reheating, as this can affect the temperature and cooking time. Work in batches if necessary.
• Check the internal temperature of the shrimp tempura to ensure it has reached 165°F, which is the safe temperature for consuming seafood.
• Leftover shrimp tempura can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Frequently asked questions