Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Air Fryer Crab Sticks! This quick dish is perfect for appetizers or snacks and makes use of imitation crab sticks, giving you a flavorful seafood treat without too much fuss.
Air Fryer Crab Sticks
Ingredients
- 8 oz imitation crab sticks (also known as surimi)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Crab Sticks
If your crab sticks are long, you may want to cut them in half for easier handling. - Make the Breading Mixture
In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. - Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, beat the egg until well mixed. - Coat the Crab Sticks
Dip each crab stick into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the crab stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs. - Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. - Air Fry the Crab Sticks
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray. Place the coated crab sticks in a single layer in the basket. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. - Cook
Air fry the crab sticks for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. - Serve
Once cooked, remove the crab sticks from the air fryer and serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or a spicy aioli.
Tips
- Add Spice: For a kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the crab sticks alongside a fresh salad or on a bed of rice for a more substantial dish.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to retain crispiness.
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Air Fryer Crab Sticks!