Total
45 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Season the shrimp with salt and set aside.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut and panko. Whisk them together.

  3. In another large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and 2 tablespoons of flour until well mixed.

  4. Place the remaining flour in a separate large mixing bowl.

  5. Add the shrimp to the bowl with flour and toss them to coat evenly.

  6. Transfer the shrimp to the bowl with the egg mixture, shaking off any excess flour. Toss them to coat thoroughly.

  7. Hold the bowl with the coconut mixture in your left hand. Using your right hand, pick up the shrimp one at a time, allowing excess batter to drip off, and toss them in the coconut mixture. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated without sticking to each other.

  8. Transfer the coated shrimp to a plate, wiping off any batter and crumbs from their tails as you go. Set them aside for 10 minutes.

  9. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the garlic, chili flakes, sugar, vinegar, and 1/2 cup of water. Heat the mixture until the sugar is dissolved.

  10. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining water and corn starch to create a smooth slurry. Whisk this slurry into the sauce and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat to thicken. Remove from heat and whisk in fish sauce. Set the sauce aside.

  11. Heat oil

About this recipe

Coconut Shrimp Recipe: A Tropical Delight

Are you craving a taste of the tropics? Look no further than this mouthwatering coconut shrimp recipe. With its crispy exterior and tender, succulent interior, it's sure to transport your taste buds to a sunny beachside paradise. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply want to add a touch of island flair to your dinner table, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why Coconut Shrimp?

Coconut shrimp is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweet, nutty taste of coconut pairs perfectly with the delicate, briny flavor of shrimp. When these two ingredients come together, magic happens. The shrimp is coated in a light batter, generously coated in shredded coconut, and then fried to perfection until golden brown. Each bite is a symphony of crunch, sweetness, and seafood goodness.

Preparation Made Easy

Don't be intimidated by the idea of making coconut shrimp at home. It's easier than you think! Start by preparing the shrimp, removing the shells and deveining them. Then, create a simple batter by combining flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated, before gently pressing them into a bowl of shredded coconut. Finally, fry them in hot oil until they turn a beautiful golden color.

Don't Forget the Dipping Sauce

No coconut shrimp experience is complete without a delicious dipping sauce. Consider serving a tangy, sweet chili sauce alongside your crispy creations. The spiciness of the sauce will perfectly complement the richness of the coconut shrimp, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Conclusion

Coconut shrimp is a taste sensation that brings the flavors of the tropics to your plate. With its crispy, coconutty exterior and tender shrimp interior, it's a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a little slice of paradise?

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works just as well as fresh shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before using.

. Can I bake the coconut shrimp instead of frying?

While frying gives the shrimp that delightful crispy exterior, you can bake them if you prefer a healthier option. Simply preheat your oven to 400째F (200째C), place the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

. What can I serve with coconut shrimp?

Coconut shrimp makes a great appetizer or main course. Serve it with a side of steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with tropical fruit salsa for an extra burst of flavor.

. Can I use a different type of seafood?

While this recipe is specifically for coconut shrimp, you can certainly experiment with other types of seafood. Coconut-crusted fish or scallops can be equally delicious.

. How do I prevent the coconut from burning?

To prevent the coconut from burning during frying, make sure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350째F or 180째C) and fry the shrimp in small batches. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the coconut from turning too dark.

. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to make the batter just before frying the shrimp to achieve the perfect consistency. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and mix them with the wet ingredients right before cooking.

. What type of oil should I use for frying?

For frying coconut shrimp, use an oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil or canola oil. These oils can withstand the high heat required for frying without breaking down.

. How do I make the shrimp extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, you can double-coat the shrimp by dipping them in the batter and coconut mixture twice. This will create a thicker, crunchier coating.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let's embark on a culinary journey to the tropics with this delectable coconut shrimp recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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