Okay, friends, let’s be real. Sometimes, after a long day of battling spreadsheets and dodging rogue shopping carts at the grocery store, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove. But, my cravings for delicious Vietnamese food never take a day off! That’s where my trusty air fryer comes in to save the day, perfect for Vietnamese air fryer tofu recipe, and my sanity!.
I’m going to share eight incredibly easy Vietnamese-inspired recipes that you can whip up in your air fryer faster than you can say “Banh Mi.” And trust me, they’re so good, including options like easy air fryer banh mi, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a bustling street food market in Hanoi, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. So, grab your apron, fire up that air fryer, and let’s get cooking!
Air Fryer Vietnamese Egg Rolls (Cha Gio)
Alright, let’s kick things off with a classic! Air fryer Vietnamese spring rolls, or Cha Gio, are crispy, savory, and totally addictive. Honestly, I could probably eat a whole plateful myself (don’t judge!). The air fryer makes them surprisingly easy and healthy because you can avoid the deep fryer.
You’ll need: Rice paper wrappers, ground pork (or chicken/tofu), shredded carrots, glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms (optional, but adds a nice earthy flavor), shallots, garlic, fish sauce, sugar, pepper, and an egg. Mix all the ingredients (except the rice paper) in a bowl. Soak the rice paper in warm water one at a time until pliable. Wrap the filling tightly in the rice paper, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce and prepare to be amazed!
Air Fryer Lemongrass Chicken Wings (Ga Nuong Xa)
These wings are seriously bursting with flavor! The lemongrass marinade is fragrant and bright, and the air fryer gives them that perfect crispy skin without all the oil.
Grab some chicken wings and mix together lemongrass paste, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and a little bit of chili flakes (if you’re feeling adventurous!). Marinate the wings for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and beautifully browned. Seriously, these are so good, you won’t want to share!
Air Fryer Vietnamese Pork Chops (Suon Nuong)
Pork chops can be a little boring sometimes, but not these! Marinating them in a sweet and savory Vietnamese sauce takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness. I remember the first time I made these; my family devoured them in minutes!
You’ll need pork chops (bone-in or boneless), soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, garlic, shallots, black pepper, and a touch of five-spice powder (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor). Marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through. Serve with rice and a side of pickled vegetables for a complete meal.
Air Fryer Shrimp Spring Rolls (Goi Cuon)
Okay, so technically, the spring rolls themselves aren’t cooked in the air fryer, but you can pair it with air fryer Vietnamese spring rolls for variety. This cuts down on the prep time and makes these refreshing spring rolls even easier to make. I love these on a hot day!
Cook the shrimp in the air fryer at 350F until pink and opaque, about 6-8 minutes. You’ll also need rice paper wrappers, rice vermicelli noodles, lettuce, mint, cilantro, and bean sprouts. Soak the rice paper in warm water until pliable. Layer the noodles, lettuce, herbs, bean sprouts, and shrimp in the rice paper. Roll tightly and serve with peanut sauce or hoisin sauce. These are light, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors!
Air Fryer Vietnamese Caramelized Chicken (Ga Kho To)
This is a simplified version of the classic Vietnamese dish, Ga Kho To. The air fryer helps to caramelize the chicken beautifully, giving it that signature sweet and savory flavor. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that I often crave on a chilly evening.
You’ll need chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces), soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, shallots, black pepper, and a little bit of water. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely caramelized. Serve with rice and a side of steamed vegetables.
Air Fryer Tofu with Lemongrass and Chili (Dau Hu Xao Xa Ot)
Vegetarians, I haven’t forgotten about you! Try this Vietnamese air fryer tofu recipe, which is packed with flavor and has a satisfying crispy texture, thanks to the air fryer. Even meat-eaters will love this one! I promise!
Press the tofu to remove excess water. Cut it into cubes and toss with lemongrass paste, chili flakes, garlic, soy sauce, and a little bit of oil. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Serve with rice or noodles and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts.
Air Fryer Banh Mi Bites
Okay, these aren’t exactly a traditional Banh Mi, but they capture all the delicious flavors of easy air fryer banh mi in a bite-sized, air-fryer-friendly package. Think of them as Banh Mi sliders, but way easier! I love serving these as appetizers at parties.
You’ll need small baguette rolls (or slider buns), cooked pork or chicken (leftovers work great!), pate (optional), mayonnaise, pickled carrots and daikon radish, cilantro, and jalapenos (if you like a little heat!). Slice the rolls in half. Spread with mayonnaise and pate (if using). Layer with the meat, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and jalapenos. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, until the rolls are lightly toasted and the filling is warmed through. These are seriously addictive!
Spice up your routine by trying new Vietnamese food ideas for modern palates.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries with Peanut Sauce
Okay, I know this isn’t necessarily a traditional Vietnamese dish, but the peanut sauce gives it a definite Vietnamese-inspired twist! Plus, who doesn’t love sweet potato fries? They’re my go-to snack when I’m craving something sweet and savory.
Discover how to create unforgettable gatherings with these Vietnamese hot pot recipes, perfect for sharing delicious moments with loved ones!
Cut sweet potatoes into fries. Toss with a little bit of oil, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy. Serve with a peanut sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a little bit of water. Trust me, this combination is amazing!
