Air Fryer Shrimp Tempura Recipe

All-purpose flour: This is the base for the tempura batter, providing structure and lightness.

Cold water: Essential for creating a light and airy batter, the cold temperature helps to keep the batter from becoming too thick.

Beaten egg: Adds richness and helps bind the batter together.

Large shrimp: The star of the dish, make sure they are peeled and deveined for ease of preparation.

Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give the shrimp their signature crispy texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the shrimp and the batter.

For a lighter and crispier tempura batter, ensure that the water used is ice-cold. This helps to create a contrast in temperature when the shrimp hits the hot air, resulting in a fluffier texture. Additionally, avoid over-mixing the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and contribute to the desired airy consistency.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour provides a lighter and crispier texture, which is more traditional for tempura.

• cold water - Substitute with sparkling water: Sparkling water helps create a lighter, airier batter due to the carbonation.

• beaten egg - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) can mimic the binding properties of eggs and is a good vegan alternative.

• peeled and deveined large shrimp - Substitute with tofu: Firm tofu can be used as a vegetarian alternative, providing a similar texture when fried.

• panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a similar crunch and can be a gluten-free option if needed.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with an extra layer of umami flavor.

• Allow the shrimp tempura to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the coating soggy.
• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. If stacking, use parchment paper between layers to maintain the crispiness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer and place in the freezer for about 1 hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 1 month.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. No need to thaw before reheating.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shrimp tempura in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.

• Use an oven by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the shrimp tempura on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• For a quick method, use a microwave with a microwave-safe plate. Place a damp paper towel over the shrimp tempura to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as the air fryer or oven.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp tempura on the rack or a baking sheet. Toast for 5-6 minutes until they are hot and crispy.

• For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp tempura and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and crispy.

• Air fryer: Essential for cooking the shrimp to a golden, crispy perfection without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour, cold water, and beaten egg to create the tempura batter.

• Whisk: Helps to thoroughly mix the tempura batter ingredients until smooth.

• Measuring cup: Ensures accurate measurement of the flour and water for the batter.

• Small bowl: Ideal for beating the egg before adding it to the tempura batter.

• Tongs: Useful for dipping the shrimp into the batter and then coating them with panko breadcrumbs.

• Cooking spray: Lightly coats the shrimp to help achieve a crispy texture in the air fryer.

• Air fryer basket: Holds the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

• Plate: Provides a surface to place the coated shrimp before transferring them to the air fryer.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients like flour, water, and shrimp before starting.

Use pre-made panko: Save time by using store-bought panko breadcrumbs instead of making your own.

Organize your workspace: Arrange your batter and breadcrumbs stations close to the air fryer for a smooth workflow.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple shrimp at once in the air fryer to reduce overall cooking time.

Quick cleanup: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup.