Crispy Asian-style lobster claws cooked in an air fryer served with dipping sauce

Crispy Asian-Style Air Fryer Lobster Claws

Crispy Asian-Style Air Fryer Lobster Claws
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15 mintime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories320kcal

Carbs10gram

Fat15gram

Protein25gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Lobster claws (precooked or fresh)500 g
  • Garlic paste (preferably fresh)1 tbsp
  • Soy sauce (low sodium recommended)2 tbsp
  • Honey1 tbsp
  • Sesame oil1 tbsp
  • Rice vinegar1 tbsp
  • Ginger paste (fresh if possible)1 tsp
  • Chili flakes (adjust to taste)0.5 tsp
  • Cornstarch1 tbsp
  • Green onions (chopped, for garnish)2 tbsp
  • Sesame seeds (toasted, for garnish)1 tbsp

This recipe for Asian-style lobster claws cooked in an air fryer combines the convenience of modern cooking with the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine. Lobster claws are coated in a flavorful marinade and air fried to crispy perfection, resulting in a succulent and impressive dish that's surprisingly easy to prepare. The total cost for ingredients is approximately $25 USD, €23, £20, and ₹1850. Each serving provides about 320 calories, making it a delicious, moderately light seafood treat. This recipe is suitable for pescatarian diets, labeled as medium complexity, and requires about 35 minutes total including preparation and cooking.

Preparation instructions

Prepare Lobster Claws

1If using fresh lobster claws, ensure they are cleaned and shell is partially cracked to allow seasoning to absorb. If precooked, thaw them completely to room temperature. This allows even cooking in the air fryer.

Make the Marinade

2In a mixing bowl, combine garlic paste, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger paste, and chili flakes. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed. This marinade gives the dish a perfect sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy Asian flavor.

Coat the Lobster Claws

3Add the lobster claws to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, but no longer than 1 hour. This allows the flavors to penetrate but keeps food safety in mind.

Prepare for Air Frying

4Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated lobster claws and toss again to create a light coating. This helps achieve a crispy texture when air fried.

Preheat and Air Fry

5Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3 minutes. Place the lobster claws in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. Check that the lobster claws reach an internal temperature of at least 60°C (140°F) if using fresh; precooked claws just need reheating and crisping.

Garnish and Serve

6Once cooked, transfer lobster claws to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish. Serve immediately while hot.

Cooking Tips

-Use precooked lobster claws if you want a quicker and safer cooking process, as they only need reheating and crisping.

-Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

-Always use a food thermometer to check that fresh lobster reaches a safe internal temperature of 60°C (140°F). For precooked, ensure heated thoroughly.

-Be cautious while cracking the lobster shells to prevent injury and allow marinade to penetrate.

Equipment Needed

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Food thermometer
  • Small whisk or spoon for mixing marinade
  • Serving plate

Grocery Shopping List

  • [ ] Lobster claws (around 500g) - approx. $20; choose fresh or precooked depending on your preference. Look for fresh claws with firm texture if raw.
  • [ ] Garlic paste (small jar) - approx. $1.50; fresh or homemade is best for flavor.
  • [ ] Soy sauce (low sodium preferred) - approx. $2; check expiry date for freshness.
  • [ ] Honey (small bottle) - approx. $3; select pure honey for natural sweetness.
  • [ ] Sesame oil (small bottle) - approx. $4; dark bottle to preserve aroma.
  • [ ] Rice vinegar - approx. $2; mild flavor preferred.
  • [ ] Ginger paste or fresh ginger (approx. 50g) - approx. $1; fresh ginger if possible.
  • [ ] Chili flakes (small jar) - approx. $1; adjust to your spice preference.
  • [ ] Cornstarch (small box) - approx. $1.50; for light coating.
  • [ ] Green onions (one bunch) - approx. $1; fresh and crisp.
  • [ ] Sesame seeds (small packet) - approx. $2; toasted for garnish.

Total approx cost: $25 USD

Prices may vary locally. Choose fresh and quality ingredients for best results.

FAQ

Can I use frozen lobster claws for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster claws. Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even heating.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the lobster claws in a conventional oven at 200°C (390°F) for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and heated through.

How do I know when the lobster claws are fully cooked?

If using fresh lobster, the internal temperature should reach at least 60°C (140°F) to ensure food safety. Precooked claws just need to be heated through and can be cooked until the coating is crispy.

Can I adjust the spice level of the marinade?

Absolutely! Adjust or omit the chili flakes according to your heat preference.