**How to Make Spicy Shrimp Crispy Rice in an Air Fryer**
Spicy shrimp crispy rice is a tasty dish that blends the delicious flavors of shrimp with the enjoyable crunch of crispy rice. Utilizing an air fryer for this recipe not only makes it healthier but also improves the texture and taste. Here’s a detailed guide to whipping up this wonderful meal.
**Ingredients:**
For the Shrimp:
– 1 pound of large shrimp, cleaned and deveined
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crispy Rice:
– 2 cups of cooked jasmine or basmati rice, chilled
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of green onions, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Shrimp:**
– In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, sriracha, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
– Add the shrimp to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. **Prepare the Crispy Rice:**
– In another bowl, combine the chilled rice with sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
– Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
– Evenly distribute the rice in the air fryer basket. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the rice is golden and crispy.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:**
– After the rice is finished, take it out of the air fryer and set aside.
– Arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
– Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are fully cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.
4. **Assemble the Dish:**
– In a serving dish, create a layer of crispy rice as the base.
– Place the spicy shrimp on top.
– Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Serve the spicy shrimp crispy rice right away while hot. It goes wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
**Tips:**
– For an added kick, incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes into the shrimp marinade.
– Make sure the rice is thoroughly cooled before air frying to achieve optimal crispiness.
– Modify the spice level by adjusting the quantity of sriracha or hot sauce to your taste.
This spicy shrimp crispy rice creation is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an excellent option for a quick and satisfying meal. The air fryer not only simplifies the cooking method but also provides a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this delightful dish with loved ones!