Air Fryer Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This quick and flavorful shrimp fried rice, prepared in the air fryer, is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy. Easy to make and packed with protein, it's a meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1/3 cup chopped onion
• 1/3 cup chopped carrot
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 pound large, peeled, deveined raw shrimp
• 2 (8-ounce) packages pre-cooked microwavable brown rice
• 3/4 cup frozen green peas
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• 1/4 cup Sriracha mayonnaise (optional)
• 1 scallion, sliced (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Remove the basket insert from the air fryer and preheat to 400F (200C) for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add oil to the basket holder to coat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and begin to caramelize.

Step 4: Add the lightly beaten eggs to the air fryer basket and cook until partially set, about 3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the shrimp, rice, peas, soy sauce, rice vinegar, black pepper, and the remaining salt. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 6: Cook for an additional 10 minutes. Stir the mixture halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: After the 10 minutes, stir again and, if desired, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Continue cooking for 10 to 15 more minutes until the dish is heated through and crisped to your liking.

Step 8: Drizzle with Sriracha mayonnaise for an added spicy kick, and sprinkle with sliced scallions for garnish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 402
• Total Fat: 17g (22% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (15% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 232mg (77% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1367mg (59% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 37g (13% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (16% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 24g (47% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 7mg (7% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 115mg (9% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 400mg (9% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice is a beloved dish with roots tracing back to the rich culinary traditions of China. Originally, fried rice was a way to repurpose leftover rice and ingredients, creating a flavorful, economical meal. Shrimp was added along coastal regions where seafood was abundant, turning a simple rice dish into a protein-rich delight. Over centuries, this dish evolved across Asia, with each culture incorporating local flavors and techniques, making it both versatile and universally appealing.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

Regional differences in shrimp fried rice are subtle yet distinct. In Cantonese cuisine, the rice is often lightly seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, allowing the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine. In Thai versions, ingredients like fish sauce, lime, and chili may be added for a more aromatic and spicy profile. Japanese styles might include short-grain rice and pickled vegetables, while in the American-Chinese adaptation, additional vegetables and a slightly sweeter soy sauce often appear. The air fryer version, like in this recipe, adds a unique crispiness, setting it apart from traditional wok-cooked fried rice.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Shrimp fried rice is often confused with other rice-based dishes like paella, jambalaya, or risotto. Unlike paella, which uses saffron and has a more broth-like texture, shrimp fried rice is dry and stir-fried. Jambalaya includes a blend of meats and a tomato-based seasoning, while risotto is creamy and slow-cooked. The hallmark of shrimp fried rice is its combination of fluffy rice, tender shrimp, vegetables, and seasonings quickly cooked at high heat, preserving texture and flavor.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dish is commonly served as a main course for lunch or dinner, either at home or in restaurants specializing in Asian cuisine. In casual settings, it may appear alongside other stir-fried dishes, spring rolls, or dumplings. Shrimp fried rice is also a popular takeout option due to its quick preparation and satisfying combination of protein, vegetables, and rice. The addition of garnishes like scallions, sesame seeds, or Sriracha mayonnaise adds visual appeal and extra flavor when presented on the table.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• Fried rice in China was originally a way to reduce food waste by using leftover rice.
• Shrimp fried rice became a symbol of prosperity and abundance in some cultures, often served during special occasions.
• The air fryer method enhances the crispiness of ingredients while reducing oil, making it a modern, healthier twist on a traditional favorite.
• The choice of ricelong-grain, short-grain, or brown ricecan dramatically change the texture and taste of the final dish.
• Adding eggs in shrimp fried rice not only enriches the flavor but also helps bind the ingredients together.

FAQ about Air Fryer Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

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