Air-Fryer Shrimp Chips: Quick, Crunchy, And Crispy!

If you're looking for a quick, tasty snack, shrimp chips are a great option. Also known as prawn crackers, krupuk, or kroepoek, these chips are often served in Chinese restaurants and can be purchased dried from grocery stores. Using an air fryer to make shrimp chips is a healthier alternative to deep frying, and the chips will still have a yummy, crispy texture. The process is simple and only requires dried shrimp crackers and oil.

Characteristics and Values Table for Making Shrimp Chips in an Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the process of making shrimp chips. It ensures that your shrimp chips cook evenly and efficiently. Here is a step-by-step guide to preheating your air fryer for making shrimp chips:

• Set the Temperature: Adjust the temperature dial or settings on your air fryer to the desired temperature. For shrimp chips, a temperature of around 370°F to 400°F (188°C to 200°C) is recommended. This higher temperature range is ideal for achieving that crispy texture and golden colour.
• Allow for Preheating Time: After setting the temperature, give your air fryer adequate time to preheat. Most air fryers will have an indicator light or a beep to signal when it has reached the set temperature. This usually takes a few minutes. Refer to your air fryer's user manual to understand its specific preheating capabilities and requirements.
• Consider the Model: Keep in mind that the preheating process and temperature settings may vary slightly depending on the model and brand of your air fryer. Some air fryers may have specific preheating functions or programs, while others may require manual adjustments. Always consult your air fryer's instructions to ensure you are preheating it correctly and safely.
• Safety Precautions: When preheating your air fryer, it is important to follow basic safety guidelines. Ensure that your air fryer is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface and that there is adequate ventilation in the room. Keep flammable objects away from the appliance, and always supervise the preheating process to avoid any potential hazards.

By following these steps, you can effectively preheat your air fryer, creating the ideal environment for cooking delicious and crispy shrimp chips. Remember to refer to your specific air fryer's instructions for any model-specific considerations or recommendations.

Oil the shrimp chips

Oiling the shrimp chips is a crucial step in the air-frying process. It ensures that the chips cook evenly and don't stick to the air fryer basket. Here is a step-by-step guide to oiling your shrimp chips:

Step 1: Prepare the Oil

Before you begin, ensure you have a suitable oil for cooking. Common choices include olive oil, vegetable oil, or any other cooking oil of your preference.

Step 2: Measure the Oil and Crackers

The recommended ratio is one tablespoon of oil for every 100 grams of dried prawn crackers. Measure out the desired amount of oil and crackers accordingly.

Step 3: Coat the Crackers

Place the measured amount of dried prawn crackers in a large mixing bowl. Add the oil to the bowl and toss or mix until each piece of cracker is thoroughly and evenly coated. It is important that the oil distribution is as uniform as possible to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

While you are coating the crackers, you can preheat your air fryer to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature setting ensures the chips cook through without burning.

Step 5: Batch Frying

Once the crackers are coated and the air fryer is preheated, it's time to fry! Divide the coated crackers into small batches. It is recommended to fry around three pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding the basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the crackers from crisping up properly.

Step 6: Air Frying

Place the first batch of crackers into the air fryer basket and fry for approximately 2 to 3 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius. Keep a close eye on the crackers as they cook, as the exact timing may vary depending on your air fryer model. You want to fry them until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Mid-Fry Adjustment

Halfway through the frying process, pull out the basket and give it a shake to toss the crackers. This ensures they cook evenly on all sides. Alternatively, you can use tongs to gently stir the crackers.

Step 8: Repeat for Remaining Batches

Once the first batch is done, remove them from the air fryer and set them aside to cool. Repeat the frying process for the remaining batches until all your crackers are fried.

Step 9: Cooling and Storage

Allow the shrimp chips to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness.

By following these steps, you will have perfectly crispy and tasty shrimp chips cooked in your air fryer with minimal oil!

Air fry temperature and duration

The temperature and duration of the air-frying process depend on the type of shrimp chips you are making and the specific air fryer model you are using. Here is a detailed guide:

Air Frying Dried Prawn Crackers:

Preheat your air fryer to 200 degrees Celsius. For every 100 grams of dried prawn crackers, add one tablespoon of oil to a large mixing bowl and toss to ensure each cracker is coated thoroughly. It is recommended to divide the crackers into batches of about three pieces each to avoid overcrowding the basket. Air fry each batch for about two to three minutes at 200 degrees Celsius or until golden brown. Halfway through the frying process, shake the basket or use a tong to stir the crackers.

Air Frying Fresh or Frozen Shrimp:

For air-frying fresh or frozen shrimp, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Peel and devein 32 jumbo shrimp. Combine two tablespoons of olive oil with spices like garlic powder, sweet paprika, dried parsley, and salt. Add the shrimp to this mixture and coat them well on both sides. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary. Air fry for five to six minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Additional Tips:

• The temperature and duration settings may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so adjust accordingly.
• When cooking dried prawn crackers, ensure they are thoroughly coated with oil to prevent them from flying around in the air fryer.
• For frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them before adding any spices.
• If you prefer your shrimp with a breading, you can bread them before air frying for a crispy texture.

Avoid overcrowding the basket

When making shrimp chips in an air fryer, it is important to avoid overcrowding the basket. This is because the shrimp chips need space to expand and fly around as they cook. If the basket is overcrowded, the chips may not cook evenly, and they could end up sticking together.

To avoid overcrowding, it is recommended to cook the chips in small batches. One source suggests cooking just three pieces at a time. This will ensure that the chips have enough space to move around freely and cook evenly. It also makes it easier to remove them from the basket when they are done, as you don't want to be fishing around for a few stray chips that are still cooking.

Cooking in batches also means you can keep a close eye on the chips and remove them as soon as they are done. Shrimp chips cook very quickly in an air fryer, usually taking just 2-3 minutes. If you overcrowd the basket, you may not be able to remove all the chips before they start to burn.

By cooking the chips in small batches, you can ensure that they come out perfectly crispy and golden brown every time. This method may take a little longer overall, but it's worth it for the perfect shrimp chips!

Serving suggestions

Shrimp chips, also known as prawn crackers, krupuk, or kroepoek, are a delicious snack that can be made in an air fryer. They are often served as a side dish or appetiser, and their crispy texture and savoury taste make them perfect for dipping. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your shrimp chips and impress your guests:

Dips and Sauces:

• Creamy Lime Sauce: This tangy and zesty sauce pairs well with the shrimp chips, adding a burst of flavour.
• Guacamole: The creamy texture and mild flavour of guacamole complement the crunchy shrimp chips.
• Salsa: For a spicier option, serve your shrimp chips with salsa. The fresh and chunky texture of salsa will add a nice contrast to the crispy chips.
• Tartar Sauce: A classic pairing with seafood, tartar sauce adds a creamy and tangy flavour to your shrimp chips.

Main Course:

• Tacos: Use the shrimp chips as a base and fill them with cilantro, creamy lime sauce, and Latin-spiced shrimp. You can also use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb option.
• Bowls: Create a hearty bowl with quinoa or rice, roasted vegetables, and a generous portion of shrimp chips on top. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice for added flavour.
• Salads: For a protein-packed salad, add air-fried shrimp chips on top of your favourite greens and vegetables. The shrimp chips will provide a nice crunch to your salad.
• Sandwiches: Layer shrimp chips between two slices of bread with butter lettuce and tartar sauce. You can also add other fillings of your choice to make it a hearty sandwich.

Sides:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve your shrimp chips with a side of roasted broccoli rabe, butternut squash, or carrots. These vegetables provide a nice contrast in texture and flavour to the shrimp chips.
• Tostada Shells: Layer tostada shells with refried beans, guacamole, salsa, and shrimp chips for a crunchy and satisfying bite.

Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favourite way to enjoy shrimp chips! Remember to consider the portion sizes and adjust the quantities accordingly. Enjoy your delicious and crispy shrimp chips made in your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions