0 Shares

When the sun dips low and the air fills with excitement, there’s nothing quite like the crispy crunch of Coconut Shrimp to transport you to a tropical paradise. I had been craving something simple yet full of flavor after a long week, and this delightful dish became my new go-to. The playful combination of sweet apricot preserves and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes in the dipping sauce lured me in, making it impossible to resist.

Picture this: succulent shrimp lightly battered and rolled in golden coconut, sizzling in the pan, filling the kitchen with that intoxicating aroma of crunch and sweetness. It’s a dish that impresses guests effortlessly yet requires minimal fuss—perfect for an impromptu dinner or a cozy evening at home.

Whether you’re looking to break free from fast-food fatigue or simply wanting to impress your friends, these Coconut Shrimp—with their tender, juicy insides and crisp, coconut-coated outsides—promise to be a crowd-pleaser. Join me in making this mouthwatering treat, easily tailored to suit any appetite and occasion!

Why is Coconut Shrimp a must-try?

Crisp, Crunchy Delight: Each bite of these shrimp is enveloped in a luscious coat of crispy coconut.
Delectable Dipping Sauce: The zesty blend of apricot preserves and red pepper flakes adds an exciting twist that elevates your taste experience.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even kitchen novices can whip these up to perfection.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Be it a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in!
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Impress family and friends effortlessly with this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to get rave reviews!
Dive deeper into homemade goodness and break free from fast food with these delightful Coconut Shrimp—the perfect tropical escape from your kitchen!

Coconut Shrimp Ingredients

For the Dipping Sauce
• Apricot preserves – adds a sweet, fruity flavor that balances the savory notes.
• Red wine vinegar – provides acidity to enhance the sauce’s taste.
• Soy sauce – deepens the flavor, adding umami to the dish.
• Honey – complements the preserves with an extra touch of sweetness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – infuses a gentle heat, making the sauce exciting.

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp (16/20 count) – larger shrimp ensure a juicy, hearty bite.
• All-purpose flour – forms the backbone of the batter for a perfect crunch.
• Cornstarch – helps achieve a lighter, crispier texture when fried.
• Baking powder – aids in creating a fluffy batter that puffs up beautifully.
• Baking soda – works harmoniously with baking powder to create that perfect rise.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors present in the dish.
• Garlic powder – adds a savory depth that pairs well with the sweetness of coconut.
• Onion powder – contributes an aromatic flavor that rounds out the batter.
• Ice water – ensures a cold batter for extra crispiness when frying.
• Desiccated coconut – provides the star element, coating the shrimp in tropical goodness.
• Canola or peanut oil – ideal for frying, ensuring that golden-brown finish.

Immerse yourself in the delectable world of Coconut Shrimp, where each ingredient combines to create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also a delightful addition to any dining occasion!

How to Make Coconut Shrimp

Combine the dipping sauce ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set this aside for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Butterfly the shrimp: Carefully slice the shrimp along the back and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures maximum batter adherence and a crispier finish.
Mix the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually stir in the ice water until a smooth batter forms—aim for a consistency that will cling to the shrimp.
Dip the shrimp: Take each shrimp and immerse them in the batter, coating all the way to the tail shells. Then, roll them in desiccated coconut, pressing lightly to ensure that the coconut clings well.
Heat the oil: In a small pot, pour enough oil to create a depth of 2-3 inches. Heat the oil to 325°F/160°C, ensuring it’s hot enough for frying, but not smoking.
Fry the shrimp: By holding the shrimp by their tails, carefully lower them into the hot oil one by one. Fry in small batches for about 2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Drain the excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to lift the shrimp from the oil, allowing excess oil to drip off. Transfer them to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt if desired for added flavor.
Repeat for more shrimp: After each batch, use a fine mesh strainer to filter out any coconut pieces left in the oil, then fry the remaining shrimp. Serve immediately with your tantalizing dipping sauce.

Optional: Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Coconut Shrimp Variations

Feel free to play with these ideas and make the recipe your own in delightful ways!

Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dipping sauce for extra heat. It’ll elevate your taste buds to new heights!
Tropical Twist: Swap apricot preserves for mango chutney to add a unique fruity flair that perfectly complements the shrimp’s flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make a delicious gluten-free version. Your enjoyment doesn’t have to be limited!
Baked Option: For a lighter take, bake the coconut-coated shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway through. No oil needed, just a heavenly crunch!
Coconut Topping: Mix in some chopped macadamia nuts with the desiccated coconut for a lovely texture and nutty flavor that enhances the tropical experience.
Zesty Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the fried shrimp just before serving for an added layer of zesty brightness that harmonizes beautifully with the sweet coconut.
Herb Infusion: Blend herbs such as cilantro or basil into the batter for a fresh aromatic twist that takes your coconut shrimp to a new flavor dimension. It’s like a vacation for your senses!
Shrimp Substitute: Try this recipe with chicken tenders or vegetables like zucchini. They’ll soak up the flavors beautifully while accommodating different dietary preferences.

Experimenting has never been so rewarding! Every bite can be a surprising delight when you take inspiration from these variations.

Make Ahead Options

These Coconut Shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dipping sauce up to 3 days in advance, simply mixing the ingredients and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. Additionally, you can butterfly and coat the shrimp with batter and coconut up to 24 hours ahead. Just lay them in a single layer on a parchment-lined sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, heat the oil and fry the shrimp as instructed, ensuring they remain just as crispy and delicious. This prep strategy saves you time and effort while delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss!

What to Serve with Coconut Shrimp?

Transport your taste buds to a sunny shore with these delicious Coconut Shrimp, perfectly complimented by a range of side dishes and drinks.

Tropical Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with pineapple and coconut accents creates a delightful pairing that enhances the shrimp’s tropical vibe.
Fresh Mango Salsa: Bright and zesty, this salsa provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried shrimp. The sweetness of the mango balances the savory coconut beautifully.
Crispy Asian Slaw: Crunchy veggies dressed in a tangy sesame vinaigrette add texture and brightness, making for an appealing and colorful plate.
Coconut-infused Quinoa: This nutty side with an extra touch of coconut harmonizes beautifully with your shrimp, amplifying those tropical notes and adding a wholesome element.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fresh herbs and zesty lime elevate the dining experience. This light grain dish serves as a refreshing base for the shrimp.
Frozen Piña Colada: Sip on this creamy, dreamy drink that matches the flavors of the shrimp while adding a fun tropical flair to your meal.
Chocolate Lava Cake: To end on a sweet note, the rich, gooey center of a chocolate lava cake contrasts with the tropical flavors, making it the ultimate indulgent finish.
Grilled Veggie Skewers: Marinated and grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that complements the shrimp’s sweet, crunchy exterior. They’re colorful and healthy, making your plate pop.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing spritz of lime elevates the waters, cleansing the palate between bites. This simple drink choice keeps the tropical theme alive.

Enjoy these pairings, designed to create an unforgettable meal that revolves around your delightful Coconut Shrimp!

Expert Tips for Coconut Shrimp

Prep Ahead: Prepare the dipping sauce in advance and refrigerate it; flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious when you serve it.

Dry the Shrimp: Always pat the shrimp dry before battering. This key step helps the batter stick better, ensuring a crisp finish.

Control the Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 325°F/160°C. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will burn; if too cool, they’ll be greasy.

Small Batches: Fry in small batches for even cooking and optimal crispiness. Overcrowding the pot can lower the oil temperature and impact your Coconut Shrimp quality.

Check Crispiness: Look for a beautiful golden brown color before removing from the oil. This ensures that your shrimp are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within.

Immediately Serve: Coconut shrimp are best enjoyed hot right after frying. Serve them with your dipping sauce without delay for the ultimate experience!

How to Store and Freeze Coconut Shrimp

Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy your Coconut Shrimp fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

Fridge: Store leftover Coconut Shrimp in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 days, but remember that they’ll lose some crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They should be good for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To bring back the crunch, reheat frozen Coconut Shrimp in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, until warmed through and crispy again.

Coconut Shrimp with Dipping Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Coconut Shrimp?
I recommend using large shrimp, specifically those in the 16/20 count range. They provide a nice, juicy bite and hold up well during the frying process, ensuring that you’re treated to a delightful texture both inside and out.

How long can I store leftover Coconut Shrimp?
Store your leftover Coconut Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that they’ll lose some of their signature crispiness, but they can still be quite tasty when reheated! Just be sure to enjoy them within that timeframe for optimal flavor.

Can I freeze Coconut Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze your Coconut Shrimp, first lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are firm. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the shrimp into a freezer bag, ensuring to push out as much air as possible. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

How do I reheat frozen Coconut Shrimp?
To bring back that wonderful crunch, preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen Coconut Shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet or air fryer basket, and reheat for about 10-12 minutes, until they are warmed through and crispy again. This method helps maintain their texture wonderfully!

How do I know if my shrimp are fresh enough?
When selecting shrimp, look for a slight sheen and a firm texture. Fresh shrimp will have minimal to no dark spots on their shells. If they smell overly fishy or ammonia-like, it’s best to skip that batch. Properly sourced shrimp should have a clean, ocean-like scent.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
While this recipe is delightful, if you or your guests have allergies, it’s crucial to be cautious. Shrimp can be a common allergen. Additionally, ensure you’re using gluten-free flour if needed, as all-purpose flour contains gluten. For those avoiding sugar or honey, consider using a sugar substitute that matches your taste preference. Enjoy the dish while keeping everyone’s dietary needs in mind!