These Air Fryer Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls are fresh and fun! Filled with juicy shrimp, crunchy veggies, and herbs, they make a tasty snack or light meal.
What’s great is that they are crispy on the outside while staying light inside. I love dipping mine in some soy sauce or peanut sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for a satisfying bite. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work great too. Just remember to thaw them completely before cooking! I usually prefer wild-caught shrimp for their flavor.
Rice Paper Wrappers: These are essential for creating those delightful rolls. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, check the labels as some brands offer gluten-free rice papers.
Vermicelli Rice Noodles: These fine noodles add a lovely texture. If you’re keeping things gluten-free, use rice noodles. Otherwise, you can use thin wheat noodles if you prefer.
Cabbage: Shredded purple cabbage adds a pop of color and crunch. Green cabbage or even shredded carrots can be substituted based on what you have on hand.
Fresh Herbs: Basil, mint, and cilantro add freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute! Use whatever fresh herbs you enjoy for added flavor.
Dipping Sauce Ingredients: If you want to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. For a vegan option, substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.
How Do You Roll Rice Paper Without It Breaking?
Rolling rice paper can be tricky, but a few tips make it easier. First, ensure your water is warm, as this helps soften the wrappers without making them too fragile. Here’s how to roll them right:
- Dip one rice paper wrapper into warm water for about 10 seconds. It should be soft but still slightly firm.
- Spread it out on a surface. Layer your fillings in the center, leaving space along the edges.
- Fold in the sides first, then roll from the bottom, tucking tightly as you go.
- Don’t worry if the first one doesn’t look perfect! With practice, you’ll get the hang of it.
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 rice paper wrappers (8-inch size)
- 1 cup cooked vermicelli rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 medium cucumber, julienned
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Cooking spray or a little oil (for air fryer)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. Including the air frying time, you’re looking at around 30 minutes total for delicious, crispy rice paper rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the shrimp and rolls get nice and crispy when cooked.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Lightly spray the shrimp with oil and sprinkle on a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers:
Next, get a large shallow bowl or plate and fill it with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10 seconds. You want it to soften but still feel slightly firm. Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean surface ready for filling.
4. Fill the Wrapper:
Now it’s time to add your fillings! Place a small handful of the cooked vermicelli noodles, a bit of shredded cabbage, a few fresh basil, mint, and cilantro leaves, some julienned cucumber, and 2-3 shrimp in the center of the wrapper.
5. Roll it Up:
Carefully fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling. Then, roll tightly from the bottom to fully enclose your delicious fillings. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Air Fry the Rolls:
Lightly spray each filled roll with cooking spray or brush a little oil on them. Place the rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t crowded. You might need to do this in batches. Air fry for about 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the rice paper is crispy and golden.
7. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the rolls are cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), chili flakes, and minced garlic in a small bowl. This sauce will add a burst of flavor when you dip your rolls!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the rolls are cooked, sprinkle them with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish. Serve the crispy shrimp rice paper rolls with the dipping sauce on the side. Add lime wedges for an extra zest if desired. Enjoy your fresh and crispy Air Fryer Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure they are fully thawed before using. It’s best to thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftover Rice Paper Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore some crispness.
What Can I Substitute for Rice Paper Wrappers?
If you can’t find rice paper, you could try using thin lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or spring roll wrappers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of wrapper used.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can add grated carrots, bell peppers, or even avocado for creaminess. Just be cautious not to overfill them, as this can make rolling difficult.