These light and tasty shrimp rice paper rolls are a fun way to enjoy a meal! With juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and soft rice paper, they’re perfect for a quick and healthy snack.
Watching them cook in the air fryer is almost as fun as eating them! I love dipping them in the sauce—it’s like a little party in your mouth! 🎉 Make a bunch, and share with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Paper Sheets: These are essential for wrapping your rolls. You can find them at most Asian grocery stores. If you don’t have them, you might try using lettuce leaves for a fresh twist.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well in this recipe. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, consider tofu or tempeh as great alternatives, marinated to add flavor.
Fresh Herbs (Basil, Mint, Cilantro): These herbs bring a burst of flavor. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried herbs won’t be as vibrant but will still add some taste. You can also use parsley or green onions.
Cucumbers: Julienne cucumbers add crunch. If you don’t have them, try bell peppers or carrots for a similar texture.
Sauce Ingredients: For the dipping sauce, if you’re out of soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos make good substitutes. Agave syrup can replace honey or brown sugar if you prefer a vegan option.
How Do I Properly Soften Rice Paper Sheets?
Softening rice paper sheets can be tricky. The key is to dip them in warm water without making them too mushy. Here’s a simple guide:
- Fill a shallow dish or bowl with warm water.
- Dip one rice paper sheet for 10-15 seconds. It should feel soft but still firm.
- Lay it flat on a clean surface; it’ll continue to soften as you fill and fold it.
- Practice makes perfect! The more you handle it, the easier it gets.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Getting shrimp just right is essential for flavor and texture. Here’s how:
- Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Arrange shrimp in a single layer; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes; shrimp should turn pink and opaque when done.
- Let them cool slightly before wrapping to avoid making the rice paper soggy.
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 12 rice paper sheets
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cup cooked vermicelli rice noodles (optional)
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Cooking spray or light oil for air fryer
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp chili flakes or fresh chopped chili
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions or fresh herbs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes for cooking. So total, you should plan for around 25-30 minutes to enjoy your delicious shrimp rice paper rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will help cook the shrimp evenly and give your rolls a nice crisp texture later.
2. Season the Shrimp:
Take your peeled and deveined shrimp and season them lightly with salt and pepper. This simple step boosts their flavor!
3. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easier.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the air fryer and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Soak the Rice Paper:
Fill a shallow dish or large bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for about 10-15 seconds, just until it softens but is still slightly firm. It will continue to soften as you work with it.
6. Assemble the Rolls:
Lay the softened rice paper flat on a clean surface or cutting board. On the bottom third of the paper, place a few shrimp (2-3 pieces), a handful of shredded carrots, some leaves of fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro), cucumber sticks, and if you like, a few vermicelli noodles.
7. Roll It Up:
Start by folding the bottom edge of the rice paper over the filling. Then fold in the sides and roll tightly to enclose all the delicious filling. Make sure they are snug but not too tight.
8. Repeat:
Continue to fill and roll the remaining rice paper sheets using the same method until all ingredients are used up.
9. Crisp the Rolls:
Lightly spray the completed rolls with cooking spray or oil, and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a little crunch. Place the rolls in the air fryer basket.
10. Finishing Touch:
Air fry the rolls for another 2-3 minutes. This will give them a slightly crispy exterior. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t overcook!
11. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While your rolls are finishing up, mix together all the dip ingredients in a small bowl. Stir until the honey or sugar is dissolved.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the rolls are done, serve them warm or at room temperature with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your light, fresh, and crispy Air Fryer Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning to prevent extra moisture.
How Should I Store Leftover Rice Paper Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh, you can place a damp paper towel in the container with the rolls to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients. Bell peppers, avocado, or bean sprouts make excellent additions. Just be sure not to overfill the rolls to keep them easy to wrap.
What Dipping Sauce Alternatives Can I Use?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the dipping sauce, try combining peanut butter with soy sauce and a splash of lime juice for a creamy dip. A sweet chili sauce also pairs perfectly with these rolls!