Coconut Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp with coconut milk

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Oil for frying (vegetable oil or coconut oil)

For the dipping sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Optional: chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the shrimp: Pat dry the peeled and deveined shrimp with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up dredging stations: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and combine shredded coconut with panko breadcrumbs in the third.
  3. Coat the shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp thoroughly with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Fry the coconut shrimp: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F or 175°C). Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  5. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined. Adjust the taste by adding more lime juice or soy sauce if desired.
  6. Serve: Arrange the crispy coconut shrimp on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if using. Serve immediately with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.
  7. Enjoy: Dip the coconut shrimp in the sweet and tangy dipping sauce and savor the delicious combination of crispy coconut coating and tender shrimp inside.

This recipe provides a delightful blend of textures and flavors with crispy coconut coating and succulent shrimp, paired perfectly with a zesty dipping sauce. It’s a fantastic appetizer or main dish that is sure to impress!