Crispy Coconut Shrimp

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Introduction

Crispy Coconut Shrimp are a delicious, tropical appetizer or main dish that combines sweet, tender shrimp with a crispy, golden coconut coating. The crispy, crunchy texture from the coconut pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp inside, creating a satisfying bite every time. With a hint of sweetness and savory flavor, these shrimp are perfect for dipping in a tangy sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether served as a party appetizer, a fun dinner, or a tropical-inspired dish, Crispy Coconut Shrimp will transport you straight to the beach.

I remember the first time I made these for a summer barbecue. The aroma of the shrimp frying in coconut batter filled the air, and my guests couldn’t wait to dive in. What’s great about these shrimp is how versatile they are—you can dip them in a variety of sauces, from a tangy sweet chili sauce to a creamy coconut dipping sauce or even a zesty lemon aioli. The combination of crispy coconut and tender shrimp is always a hit, and it’s so easy to customize the seasoning to your taste.

These shrimp are surprisingly simple to make, too. With just a few basic ingredients—shrimp, coconut flakes, and breadcrumbs—you can create a golden, crispy coating that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a light appetizer, a fun main dish, or a tropical treat for a special occasion, Crispy Coconut Shrimp are sure to impress and take your taste buds on a delicious vacation!

Perfect for:

  • Appetizers
  • Seafood lovers
  • Tropical-themed parties
  • Casual gatherings
  • Lunch with a tropical twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Crispy Coconut Shrimp are a must-try:

  • Perfectly Crispy: The combination of breadcrumbs and shredded coconut creates a crispy, golden exterior that gives the shrimp a delightful crunch.
  • Tender Shrimp: The shrimp inside remain juicy and tender, offering the perfect balance to the crispy coating.
  • Simple Ingredients: Just a few easy-to-find ingredients are all you need for this flavorful dish.
  • Tropical Flavor: The coconut adds a hint of sweetness, making this dish feel like a beach vacation on your plate.
  • Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, in tacos, or as a main dish for a light, delicious meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Coconut Shrimp:

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, depending on preference)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
  • ½ teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  • Coconut: Adds the tropical, sweet flavor that makes this dish special.
  • Breadcrumbs: Provide extra crunch when combined with the shredded coconut.
  • Sweet Chili Sauce: The perfect dipping sauce for adding a balance of sweetness and heat.
  • Garlic Powder and Paprika: Enhance the flavor of the shrimp with savory and smoky notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crispy Coconut Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Prep the Shrimp: If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for easy handling. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Set Up a Dredging Station:

  1. Set Up the Coating: In one shallow bowl, place the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, combine the shredded coconut and breadcrumbs.
  2. Dredge the Shrimp: First, dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Then, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp in the coconut and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Fry the Shrimp:

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the breadcrumb mixture into the oil. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
  2. Fry the Shrimp: Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

  1. Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, honey (if using), and sriracha (if using) until well combined.

Serve:

  1. Serve the Shrimp: Arrange the crispy coconut shrimp on a platter, serve with the dipping sauce, and enjoy immediately while they’re hot and crispy!

How to Serve

  • As an Appetizer: Serve as finger food at a party, complete with a bowl of dipping sauce.
  • In Tacos: Add the shrimp to soft tacos with slaw and avocado for a tropical twist.
  • With a Salad: Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced, refreshing meal.
  • With Rice: Pair with coconut rice or jasmine rice for a full, flavorful dish.
  • With a Side of Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

  • Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly and stay crispy.
  • Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
  • Test the Oil Temperature: The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) to achieve the perfect crispy coating.
  • Make Ahead: You can bread the shrimp in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before frying.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Coconut Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper or extra sriracha to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
  2. Baked Coconut Shrimp: For a healthier alternative, bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of frying.
  3. Coconut Shrimp with Mango Salsa: Serve with a fresh mango salsa for a tropical flavor boost.
  4. Lime Coconut Shrimp: Add lime zest to the coconut coating for a zesty twist.
  5. Coconut Shrimp Tacos: Serve the shrimp in soft tortillas with shredded cabbage and avocado.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: After breading, freeze the shrimp on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Storage: Leftover fried shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Special Equipment

  • Shallow bowls for dredging
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Paper towels for draining
  • Tongs for turning the shrimp

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
    Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before breading to avoid excess moisture.
  2. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
    Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
  3. Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare it up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
  4. How do I keep the shrimp crispy?
    Serve immediately after frying. For leftovers, reheat in an air fryer or oven for best results.
  5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
  6. Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?
    Yes, bread the shrimp, then freeze them on a baking sheet before storing in an airtight container for later frying.

Conclusion

With Crispy Coconut Shrimp, you’re in for a delightful treat that strikes the perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and savory. The golden, crispy coconut coating adds a tropical flair, while the tender shrimp inside offers the ideal bite. Whether served as an appetizer or as part of a tropical meal, these shrimp are sure to be a hit with everyone.

This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a family dinner, or just craving something special. The combination of crispy coconut and succulent shrimp creates a flavor-packed bite that’s impossible to resist.

I’d love to see how your Crispy Coconut Shrimp turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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