Coconut Shrimp is a delightful appetizer that transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these shrimp are dipped in a zesty sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking for a quick weeknight treat, this recipe offers a simple yet flavorful escape. Let’s dive into this tropical delight!

Why You’ll Love This Coconut Shrimp

This recipe is a crowd favorite, and here’s why:

Crispy Texture: The combination of desiccated coconut and a light batter creates a satisfying crunch.
Flavorful Dipping Sauce: The zesty apricot preserve sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick.
Quick Preparation: You can whip up these Coconut Shrimp in under 30 minutes.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish.
Diet-Friendly: This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.
Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown color and tropical feel make it a showstopper.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or use different dipping sauces.
Tropical Cuisine: It brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen.

Ingredients for Coconut Shrimp

Gather these items:

For the Dipping Sauce:
1 cup Apricot preserves
2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Soy sauce
1 tablespoon Honey
1 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
For the Shrimp:
1 pound Shrimp (16/20 count) peeled and deveined
1 cup All-purpose flour
1 cup Cornstarch
1 teaspoon Baking powder
1 teaspoon Baking soda
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Garlic powder
1 teaspoon Onion powder
1 cup Ice water
2 cups Desiccated coconut
2 cups Canola or peanut oil for frying

How to Make Coconut Shrimp Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set this aside.
Step 2: Carefully slice the shrimp along the back and gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 4: Gradually stir in the ice water until a smooth batter forms.
Step 5: Take each shrimp and immerse them in the batter, coating all the way to the tail shells.
Step 6: Roll them in desiccated coconut, pressing lightly to ensure the coconut clings well.
Step 7: In a pot, pour enough oil to create a depth of 2-3 inches and heat to 325°F/160°C.
Step 8: Carefully lower the shrimp into the hot oil one by one, frying in small batches for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Use a slotted spoon to lift the shrimp from the oil, allowing excess oil to drain off.
Step 10: Transfer them to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate and repeat for remaining shrimp.
Step 11: Serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Coconut Shrimp

Keep these in mind:

Best served hot immediately after frying for optimal crispiness.
Always pat the shrimp dry before battering to ensure better adherence.
Control the oil temperature to avoid greasy shrimp; use a thermometer.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
Consider using Panko for a different texture in your Coconut Breaded Shrimp.

Best Ways to Serve Coconut Shrimp

Try these serving ideas:

Pair with a fresh mango salsa for a tropical twist.
Serve alongside a crispy Asian slaw for a crunchy contrast.
Enjoy with a coconut shrimp dipping sauce or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Coconut Shrimp

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge, though they may lose some crispiness. For reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to restore their crunch. This is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to enjoy Coconut Shrimp later.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coconut Shrimp

What is coconut shrimp?

Coconut shrimp are shrimp coated in a mixture of flour and desiccated coconut, then fried until crispy. This dish is popular for its tropical flavors and texture, making it a popular appetizer in many restaurants.

Why is coconut shrimp popular?

The unique combination of sweet coconut and savory shrimp creates a delicious flavor profile that appeals to many. Its crunchy texture and the versatility of serving options contribute to its popularity as an appetizer or snack.

Can I make coconut shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and coat the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them in a single layer on a parchment-lined sheet in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry them. This can save time when hosting gatherings or meal prepping.

Variations of Coconut Shrimp You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Spicy Coconut Shrimp: Add more crushed red pepper flakes to the dipping sauce for a fiery kick.
Baked Coconut Shrimp: For a healthier option, bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) until crispy.
Coconut Prawns: Use larger prawns for a heartier bite and a more impressive presentation.
Tropical Coconut Shrimp: Incorporate other tropical flavors like pineapple or mango into your dipping sauce.

Coconut Shrimp: 5 Reasons to Indulge in This Delight - Coconut Shrimp - additional detail

For more tips on frying techniques, check out this guide. You can also explore gluten-free options for your meals. If you’re interested in tropical flavors, learn more about tropical cuisine.