Crispy Coconut Shrimp (Printable)

Golden shrimp coated in crunchy coconut paired with tangy sweet chili sauce for a flavorful bite.

# Ingredient List:

→ Shrimp

01 - 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
02 - 1/2 tsp salt
03 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Breading

04 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
07 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

→ Frying

08 - 2 cups vegetable oil for frying

→ Sweet Chili Sauce

09 - 1/2 cup store-bought sweet chili sauce
10 - 1 tsp lime juice
11 - 1 tsp chopped fresh cilantro

# Steps:

01 - Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt and black pepper.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with shredded coconut mixed with panko breadcrumbs.
03 - Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip into egg, then press firmly into the coconut-panko mixture to coat completely.
04 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat to 350°F.
05 - Cook shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
06 - Transfer shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon to drain excess oil.
07 - Whisk together sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and chopped cilantro in a small bowl.
08 - Arrange hot crispy coconut shrimp on a serving platter with sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The sweet and crunchy combination creates an irresistible texture that makes people reach for just one more shrimp
  • These come together faster than you'd expect, making them perfect for unexpected guests or weeknight cravings
02 -
  • Crowding the pan is the number one mistake that leads to soggy shrimp, so resist the urge to fry them all at once
  • Letting breaded shrimp sit too long before frying makes the coating fall off, so work quickly and fry immediately after coating
03 -
  • A tiny pinch of cayenne mixed into the flour adds subtle warmth that people can't quite identify but absolutely love
  • The coconut mixture clumps together as you work, so use one hand for wet coating and one for dry to keep your station manageable

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