Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 450g (1 lb) large shrimp or prawns, cleaned and deveined
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch or corn flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- Cooking spray
For the Garnish
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ red chili, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, cut into thin matchsticks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. If purchased fresh, peel and remove the veins using a small knife or a deveining tool. Leaving the tails on is optional, but they provide a nice presentation and are easy to remove while eating.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix the cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. This simple coating gives the shrimp a crisp texture while allowing the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Toss the shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess to prevent clumping.
Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the shrimp in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this will prevent even crisping. If necessary, cook in batches.
Spray the shrimp lightly but evenly with cooking spray, ensuring the cornstarch coating is fully covered. Flip the shrimp and spray the other side as well.
Step 5: Air Fry the Shrimp
Set the air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Cook for four minutes, then flip the shrimp and spray again. Continue cooking for an additional three to four minutes. The shrimp should turn golden and crisp.
Step 6: Prepare the Aromatics
While the shrimp is cooking, heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, red chili, and ginger. Stir-fry quickly, watching carefully to prevent burning. Once the red chili starts to curl, remove the aromatics from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Once the shrimp are finished cooking, transfer them to a serving plate. Top with the fried garlic, chili, and ginger. Sprinkle with sliced green onions for added freshness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
How to Tell if the Shrimp is Cooked
Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking can result in a rubbery texture. Perfectly cooked shrimp will be firm to the touch and opaque with a pinkish hue. If the shrimp still appears translucent in the thickest part, it needs a little more time.
Preventing Overcrowding in the Air Fryer
For even crisping, ensure that the shrimp are placed in a single layer with space between them. If necessary, cook in multiple batches. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and soggy shrimp.
Getting the Crispiest Texture
The key to achieving a crispy exterior is ensuring the shrimp are thoroughly coated and evenly sprayed with oil. If some areas remain dry, they may not crisp up properly. A light, even misting of oil helps mimic deep frying.
Handling the Aromatics
Garlic, chili, and ginger cook quickly. Stir-fry them over medium heat, and remove them as soon as they become fragrant and slightly curled. If left in hot oil too long, they may burn, resulting in a bitter taste.
Adapting the Recipe for Dietary Preferences
For those avoiding fried foods entirely, the shrimp can also be grilled or pan-seared. While the texture will be slightly different, the flavor remains excellent.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes