You’re looking for a tropical twist on traditional shrimp dishes. Try crispy coconut shrimp, a sweet and savory combination that’s sure to impress. Simply dip peeled and deveined shrimp in a butter mixture, then roll them in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, unsweetened shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and salt. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Serve with a green salad, quinoa salad, or tropical fruit salad for a rejuvenating meal. Want to take it to the next level? Explore the various tips, tricks, and variations to make this dish truly unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) to achieve crispy coconut shrimp.
- Dip shrimp in butter mixture before rolling in coconut mixture for optimal crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown to achieve crispy coconut shrimp.
- Experiment with flavors like smoked paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes to add depth to crispy coconut shrimp.
Ingredients
To make crispy coconut shrimp, you’ll need:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
You can use different types of shrimp, like wild-caught or sustainably sourced. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. For coconut, try shredded, flaked, or toasted for variety.
Experiment with flavors by adding spices like cumin or coriander to the coconut mix. Adjust sugar and salt to your taste.
The key to crispy coconut shrimp isn’t overpowering the shrimp’s delicate flavor.
Instructions
To make crispy coconut shrimp, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dip each shrimp in the butter mixture.
- Roll the shrimp in the coconut mixture to coat it evenly.
- Place the coated shrimp on the baking sheet.
Bake the shrimp for 12-15 minutes until they turn golden brown. Once done, sprinkle minced garlic and chopped cilantro on top.
Serve right away for a delicious dish with a perfect blend of flavors. Have fun trying out different baking methods and flavor combinations to elevate your coconut shrimp experience!
Serving Suggestions
When you serve coconut shrimp, try these tasty ideas:
- Pair it with a green salad or quinoa salad for a light meal
- Enjoy it with coconut rice or a tropical fruit salad for a more indulgent treat
- Use it in a salad or wrap for a different twist
For a colorful touch, add fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
You can also serve it on mixed greens or with steamed veggies for a nice mix of textures.
Try sauces like citrus-herb or spicy mango salsa for extra flavor.
Have fun trying out different combos to see what you like best!
Tips and Tricks
If you want your coconut shrimp to be crispy and delicious, remember not to put too many on the baking sheet or bake them for too long. Overcrowding can make them soggy, and overbaking can make them tough.
Here are some easy tips to make your coconut shrimp even better:
- Chill before baking: Put the coated shrimp in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps the coating stick better and makes it crunchier.
- Try different flavors: Mix things up by adding a bit of cumin or smoked paprika to the coconut mix. It gives the shrimp more taste.
- Don’t mix too much: Gently cover the shrimp with the coconut so it’s not too heavy.
- Watch them closely: Keep an eye on the shrimp while they bake. Every oven is different, so they might cook faster or slower.
Variations
You can try different flavors by adding special seasonings or spices to the coconut mixture, making your crispy coconut shrimp recipe unique. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
- Try cumin or coriander for a warm, earthy taste
- Spice things up with red pepper flakes for a kick of heat
- Use shredded or flaked coconut for a different texture
These twists will take your crispy coconut shrimp to a whole new level.
Get creative with your spices and seasonings to make a dish that’s perfect for you.
Don’t be afraid to try new flavors you might discover a delicious combination!
