Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

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Author: Catherine
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Best crispy coconut shrimp served with tangy pineapple sauce.

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Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce is a delightful dish that tantalizes the senses. Imagine succulent shrimp coated in a crispy, golden-brown crust of coconut and panko breadcrumbs, each bite bursting with flavor, paired perfectly with a tangy pineapple sauce. The combination of the sweetness from the coconut and the savory notes of the fried shrimp creates a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible. This recipe is not just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about creating a memorable meal that brings joy to your family and friends around the table.

Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a potluck, or just a cheerful weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The ease of preparation, along with the vibrant presentation, makes it a winner for any occasion. Plus, with step-by-step directions laid out for you, cooking it couldn’t be simpler — making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Coconut Shrimp recipe brings a wealth of benefits that make it a true gem in any kitchen. First and foremost, the easy prep means you can whip it up efficiently, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. With minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Moreover, this dish is family-friendly and appeals to both adults and children alike. The engaging process of dipping and frying shrimp is not only fun but also creates a deliciously crunchy snack everyone will love. And when served with the fruity and zesty pineapple sauce, it elevates the dish into something extraordinary. Ultimately, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that promises to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

To create your own Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce, gather these simple yet delightful ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp: Ensure you peel and devein them, leaving the tails on for a gorgeous presentation.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps adhere the coating to the shrimp.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasoning for the flour coating.
  • 2 large eggs: Beaten until smooth to create the perfect binding for the crisp exterior.
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut: This adds that beloved tropical flavor and chewiness.
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: For an extra crunch that makes these shrimp irresistible.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil: For frying, yielding that crispy texture we crave.
  • 1 cup pineapple juice: A key ingredient for the flavorful sauce.
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple: To enhance the sauce’s texture and flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a zesty kick to the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons honey: Sweetens the sauce perfectly.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce: For savory, umami depth.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Infuses the sauce with warmth and spice.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced: Enhances the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry): To thicken the sauce.

Step-by-Step Directions for Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

Creating the Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce is an easy and enjoyable culinary experience. Follow these simple steps for a delicious outcome:

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispy finish. Then, in a shallow bowl, season the flour with salt and pepper. Lightly coat each shrimp in this seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.

  2. Create the Coating: Next, dip each coated shrimp into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. After that, roll the shrimp in a combination of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully covered for that perfect crispy crunch.

  3. Fry the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil.

  4. Make the Pineapple Sauce: For the sauce, combine the pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. The sauce should be glossy and have a nice consistency.

  5. Serve: To serve, place the hot coconut shrimp on a platter with the pineapple sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra pineapple chunks and fresh chives if desired for a colorful finish.

Tips & Tricks

To enhance your cooking experience and outcomes, consider these chef’s secrets:

  • Use Quality Shrimp: Buying fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp can significantly improve the dish’s flavor.
  • Stay Organized: Set up a coating station with bowls for flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to streamline the process, making it more efficient and fun.
  • Adjust the Heat: Maintain the right temperature for frying. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will burn; if it’s too low, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy. A spritz of water dropped into the oil should sizzle gently.
  • Bake Instead of Fry: For a healthier version, try baking the shrimp on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to spice up the flour coating with garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair your Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce in a fun and creative way. Serve them on skewers for a tropical touch, or arrange them on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad. For a complete meal, consider accompanying the shrimp with coconut rice or a fragrant quinoa salad.

For drinks, a tropical smoothie or freshly squeezed lemonade would pair beautifully, complementing the dish’s flavor profile. As a finishing touch, add a few fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a vibrant and visually appealing presentation.

Nutritional Information

While enjoying the Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce, it’s always nice to know what you’re consuming. On average, this dish provides about 350-400 calories per serving, which is reasonable for a delectable seafood treat. Each serving contains sources of protein from the shrimp, healthy fats from the oil, and vitamins from the pineapple.

If you are concerned about calorie intake, consider using less oil for frying or opting for the baked version, which can reduce calories while still delivering flavor.

Storing Tips & Variations for Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do it gently in an air fryer or oven to retain the crispiness.

For those looking to mix things up, you can make variations like adding spices to the coconut coating or experimenting with different dipping sauces, such as a spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce. For a twist, try substituting shrimp with chicken tenders or tofu to cater to diverse dietary preferences.

Conclusion for Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

The Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce is a must-try that brings excitement and flavor to your dining experience. With its satisfying crunch and sweet, tangy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone raving. Don’t wait any longer — dive into this delicious recipe today and treat yourself and your loved ones to a special meal that’s worth celebrating!

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
    Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating.

  2. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
    Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free, or substitute with tamari.

  3. How spicy is the pineapple sauce?
    The sauce is not spicy at all, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer a kick!

  4. Can I make the pineapple sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it before serving.

  5. What can I substitute for the pineapple sauce?
    A mango salsa or a citrus vinaigrette can be delicious alternatives to enhance the flavors of the coconut shrimp.

Print

Best Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

Delightful crispy coconut shrimp paired with a tangy pineapple sauce, perfect for any occasion.

  • Author: catherine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free Option

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry)

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, season flour with salt and pepper, then lightly coat each shrimp.
  2. Dip each flour-coated shrimp into beaten eggs, then roll them in a mixture of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer, then stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
  5. Serve the coconut shrimp on a platter with the pineapple sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Use quality shrimp for better flavor and ensure the oil is at the right temperature while frying.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 375
  • Sugar: 19g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

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