Crispy Coconut Shrimp (Print Version)

Shrimp coated in crispy coconut crust paired with a tangy sweet chili sauce perfect for any occasion.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is coated.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls: first with flour, second with beaten eggs, third with shredded coconut mixed with panko breadcrumbs.
03 - Dredge each shrimp in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg mixture, then press firmly into coconut-panko mixture to coat thoroughly.
04 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan. Heat to 350°F, maintaining consistent temperature throughout frying.
05 - Fry shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding to maintain oil temperature.
06 - Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon. Let drain for 1-2 minutes to remove excess oil.
07 - Whisk together sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and chopped cilantro in a small bowl until well combined.
08 - Arrange crispy coconut shrimp on a serving platter. Serve hot accompanied by the sweet chili dipping sauce.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The coconut crust stays impossibly crispy, even after sitting out for a party
  • That sweet and spicy sauce makes them disappear faster than you can fry another batch
  • They look fancy but come together in under 30 minutes with zero stress
02 -
  • Do not try to hurry the oil temperature, or your shrimp will absorb too much fat and turn soggy
  • That first batch is always your test run, so adjust your heat if the coconut is browning too quickly
  • The coating will look thick and that is exactly what creates those gorgeous crispy layers everyone loves
03 -
  • A small pinch of cayenne in the flour adds a subtle heat that cuts through the sweet coating
  • Leftover shrimp reheat surprisingly well in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 5 minutes