📝 About This Recipe
Transform humble sugar snap peas into a crave-worthy, crunchy snack that rivals any traditional fry. This recipe utilizes the high-velocity heat of the air fryer to blister the pods, intensifying their natural sweetness while maintaining a satisfying snap. Infused with aromatic ginger, toasted sesame, and a hint of chili, these veggies are a vibrant, healthy addition to any meal or a perfect standalone appetizer.
🥗 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Sugar Snap Peas (rinsed, patted dry, and strings removed)
- 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil (for deep nutty flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil (or any high-smoke point neutral oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
Aromatics and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (finely grated or minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (using fresh garlic can burn in the air fryer)
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes (optional, for a subtle heat)
The Glaze and Garnish
- 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon Honey (to balance the saltiness)
- 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (white or black)
- 1/2 piece Lime (cut into wedges for serving)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Begin by prepping the snap peas. Rinse them under cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
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2
De-string the peas by pinching the stem end and pulling it down the length of the pod. This ensures a tender bite without any fibrous 'strings'.
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3
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes. A hot start is crucial for achieving that blistered texture.
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4
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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5
Add the prepared snap peas to the bowl and toss vigorously until every pod is evenly coated in the oil and aromatics.
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6
Place the snap peas in the air fryer basket. Spread them out as much as possible; while some overlapping is okay, a single layer yields the best results.
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7
Air fry at 390°F for 5 minutes. You should hear a gentle sizzling sound.
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8
Remove the basket and shake it well to redistribute the peas, ensuring they cook evenly on all sides.
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9
Continue air frying for another 3-5 minutes. Look for the pods to become bright green with dark brown blister marks appearing on the skins.
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10
While the peas are finishing, whisk the soy sauce and honey together in a small ramekin.
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11
Once the peas are blistered to your liking, transfer them immediately back into the mixing bowl.
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12
Drizzle the soy-honey mixture over the hot peas and toss quickly. The residual heat will thicken the glaze and coat the peas beautifully.
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13
Sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds and red chili flakes, tossing one last time.
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14
Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
💡 Chef's Tips
Ensure the peas are bone-dry before oiling; any water will steam them rather than blister them. Don't use fresh minced garlic in the initial air frying stage as it tends to burn and turn bitter at 390°F. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook in two batches to avoid overcrowding, which prevents crisping. For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of Sriracha or Sambal Oelek to the final glaze. Serve immediately! Like most air-fried vegetables, they lose their crispness as they cool.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a chilled glass of dry Riesling or a crisp Japanese lager. Serve alongside grilled salmon or miso-glazed cod for a complete healthy meal. Use as a crunchy topping for a grain bowl featuring quinoa and avocado. Offer a side of spicy mayo or Greek yogurt mixed with lime for dipping. Serve as a vibrant side dish to beef stir-fry or teriyaki chicken.