These Air Fryer Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls are a fun and fresh way to enjoy a snack! They’re filled with juicy shrimp and crunchy veggies, all wrapped up in soft rice paper.
Making these rolls is like a mini food craft session! I love serving them with a cool dipping sauce for extra flavor. They disappear fast at my house—don’t say I didn’t warn you! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Paper Sheets: These are essential for making the rolls. If you can’t find rice paper, you could try using thin tortillas, but they will taste different. Rice paper gives a unique texture.
Shrimp: I recommend medium-sized shrimp for a nice bite. If shrimp isn’t available, you could substitute with cooked chicken, tofu, or even veggies for a vegetarian option.
Rice Vermicelli Noodles: Our recipe uses these for added texture. If you don’t have them, you could swap with glass noodles or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Herbs: Fresh basil, mint, and cilantro are key to flavor. If you don’t like cilantro, parsley works, and if fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can be a substitute, but they won’t have the same punch.
Dipping Sauce: Hoisin sauce is a must-have, but if it’s not handy, you can use barbecue sauce as a sweeter alternative. Almond butter or tahini can be a great substitute for peanut butter if you’re allergic.
How Do I Wrap Rice Paper Rolls Without Them Breaking?
Wrapping rice paper rolls can be tricky at first, but with a few tips, you’ll master it:
- Dip the rice paper in warm water for just 10-15 seconds. It should be pliable but still a bit stiff – it will soften further as you roll.
- Place your fillings close to the edge of the rice paper that’s nearest to you. Don’t overfill; it’s easier to roll tightly.
- Fold the sides in before rolling. This keeps the filling secure and prevents splitting.
- Roll away from you, keeping the filling tight and compact. Practice makes perfect!
With a little patience, you’ll be rolling like a pro in no time! Enjoy your air fryer rolls!
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 10 rice paper sheets
- 20 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 100g rice vermicelli noodles
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooking oil spray or a light brush of oil
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ cup water
- Crushed peanuts or chili flakes for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It includes time for preparing the fillings, cooking the shrimp, assembling the rolls, and air frying them until they are golden and crispy. The result is a delightful appetizer that’s fun to make and eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, boil or steam the shrimp until they turn pink and are cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. After cooking, allow the shrimp to cool slightly before handling them.
3. Prepare the Rice Paper:
Take a shallow dish and fill it with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds. You want it to be pliable but not too soft, as it will continue to soften while you work with it.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
Lay the softened rice paper on a clean flat surface. Begin by placing 2 shrimp side by side near the edge of the rice paper closest to you. Then, add a small handful of rice vermicelli, followed by some julienned cucumber, carrots, a few leaves of basil, mint, cilantro, and some sliced green onions on top of the shrimp.
5. Roll it Up:
Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, and then roll tightly from the edge with shrimp toward the other end, creating a compact roll. Make sure to tuck in the sides to keep everything secure. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients until all your rolls are assembled.
6. Air Fry the Rolls:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray or brush each rice paper roll with cooking oil on all sides to help them crisp up during cooking. Place the rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
7. Cook Until Crispy:
Air fry the rolls for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when the exterior turns slightly crispy and golden.
8. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the rolls are cooking, whisk together the hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha (if using), rice vinegar, and water in a bowl until smooth. Feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more water if it’s too thick.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the rolls are done cooking, serve them hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Don’t forget to present the delicious dipping sauce alongside for a flavorful boost!
Enjoy this crispy, fresh, Vietnamese-inspired appetizer with a rich peanut-hoisin dipping sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. A quick way to thaw is to place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to a few hours in advance. Just store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge with a damp paper towel to keep the rice paper moisture. Air fry them just before serving for a crispy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Rolls?
If you have any leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They are best eaten fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes to revive their crispiness.
How Can I Adjust the Dipping Sauce?
You can easily customize the dipping sauce! If you prefer it spicier, add more sriracha or chili paste. For a sweeter version, increase the amount of hoisin sauce or peanut butter. For a thinner sauce, simply whisk in more water until you reach your desired consistency.