Can I make Air Fryer Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Skewers ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.

How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Skewers

Name: Air Fryer Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; 2 stalks fresh lemongrass, tender white parts only, finely minced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small shallot, minced; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for mild heat); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or neutral oil; Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning; Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish (optional)

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Mar 30, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

Quick and packed with Vietnamese flavors, these air fryer lemongrass beef skewers are crispy — perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Start cooking

Air fryerVietnameseEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time12 mins

Total Time27 mins

Servings4

Temperature400°F / 200°C

Ingredients

Servings4

1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 stalks fresh lemongrass, tender white parts only, finely minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, minced
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or neutral oil
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine minced lemongrass, garlic, shallot, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, black pepper, chili flakes (if using), and vegetable oil. Stir thoroughly to create the flavorful marinade.
Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to infuse (up to 1 hour for deeper flavor).
Thread the marinated beef strips tightly onto the soaked wooden skewers, folding the slices as needed to fit snugly.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the beef skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and crisping.
Air fry the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 6 minutes. Flip the skewers and air fry for an additional 6 minutes or until the beef is cooked through and edges are crispy.
Remove the skewers from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes to enhance juiciness and crispness.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty finish.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the beef sirloin dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Skewers ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.