Crispy Sesame Panko Shrimp are golden, crispy shrimp coated with a savory blend of panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors. Air-fried to perfection, these shrimp are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer or snack. The sesame seeds add an extra layer of flavor and crunch, while the panko breadcrumbs ensure the shrimp stay crispy without the need for deep frying. This recipe is light, flavorful, and quick to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights or a party platter!
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as desired)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for air frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better and ensures they become crispy in the air fryer.
- Make the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, flour, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the egg and soy sauce together.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, then coat with the panko-sesame breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Air-Fry the Shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Air fry for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Once done, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. Pair with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-9 minutes
- Total Time: 22-24 minutes
Serving Size:
- Serves: 4 people (approximately 4-6 shrimp per person)
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 180-200
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient variations and portion sizes.
Key Notes:
- Crispiness: Using panko breadcrumbs ensures the shrimp will have a light and crispy texture. The sesame seeds add a unique crunch and nutty flavor.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add some chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
- Dipping Sauces: These shrimp pair perfectly with sauces like sweet chili, soy sauce, or a creamy sriracha mayo.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore the crispiness.
- Diet-Friendly: This recipe is naturally lower in fat compared to deep-frying, and using panko instead of regular breadcrumbs makes it lighter.
Crispy Sesame Panko Shrimp are a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy shrimp with a perfect crunch. The air fryer helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the shrimp juicy inside. Whether for a party, game day, or a weeknight snack, these shrimp will surely be a hit!