By Ujjainee Roy
October 12, 2024
Shrimp cooked in an air fryer can be a quick, healthy, and delicious option, but it’s easy for them to turn out dry if not handled correctly. Maintaining the shrimp's moisture is key to achieving that perfect, juicy texture, ensuring that each bite remains flavorful. Here are some tips to help you keep your shrimp moist when air frying.
Marinating shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, or spices for at least 15-30 minutes helps lock in moisture. The oil acts as a protective barrier, preventing the shrimp from drying out.
If you don’t have time to marinate, lightly coat the shrimp with olive oil or melted butter before air frying. This adds a layer of fat that helps retain moisture during cooking.
Set the air fryer to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Cooking shrimp at this temperature allows them to cook through without losing too much moisture. High heat can cause them to dry out quickly.
Ensure that the shrimp are arranged in a single layer with space around them. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and can make the shrimp dry out due to inadequate air circulation.
Halfway through cooking, pause the air fryer and brush the shrimp with a little extra marinade, oil, or butter. This quick basting step adds moisture back to the shrimp, keeping them succulent.
Shrimp cook very quickly in an air fryer, usually around 6-8 minutes depending on their size. Overcooking will make them rubbery, so check for doneness early and often. They’re ready when they turn pink and form a "C" shape