If you’re looking for something that’s both crispy and easy to make, air fryer coconut shrimp is the way to go. This recipe gives you that delightful crunch without all the oil from traditional frying.
Perfect for parties or just a fun snack at home, these shrimp are coated in coconut and panko breadcrumbs, then air-fried to golden perfection. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a zesty dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Ingredients
Method
- Peel, devein, wash and pat dry raw shrimp
- Add the panko breadcrumbs and coconut into an air fryer parchment bowl. Stir together and even out the mixture across the bottom. Air fry the mixture at 400 degrees F for 3 minutes. Remove from air fryer and pour into a small bowl
- In a second bowl, mix together flour, salt and paprika (or spices you prefer).
- In a third bowl, add whip raw eggs with a fork
- Roll the shrimp in flour and spices mixture first.
- Next, coat the shrimp in the whisked eggs.
- Last, coat in the coconut flakes and panko breadcrumbs mixture
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place shrimp in a single layer and spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 400 degrees F for a total of 7-8 minutes (cook time will vary by different air fryer models and size of your shrimp). Flip your shrimp after 4 minutes cook time and air fry for another 3-4 minutes until your air fried coconut shrimp are golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
Coconut Shrimp
What Is Coconut Shrimp?
Okay, so what is coconut shrimp? Well, it’s a pretty simple concept, really. It’s shrimp that’s been coated in coconut and then cooked until it’s nice and crispy.
Usually, you’ll find it fried, but we’re going to air fry it for a healthier twist. The coconut gives it a slightly sweet, tropical flavor that goes great with the savory shrimp.
It’s often served with a dipping sauce, like a sweet chili sauce or a tangy mayo, to balance out the flavors.
Flavor Profile of Coconut Shrimp
Let’s talk about the taste. You’ve got the natural sweetness of the coconut, which can be subtle or more pronounced depending on whether you use sweetened or unsweetened coconut. Then there’s the shrimp itself, which is mild and briny.
The breading adds a nice crunch and can be seasoned with things like garlic powder, paprika, or even a little cayenne pepper for a kick.
The dipping sauce is where you can really play around with the flavor profile, adding sweetness, spice, or acidity to complement the baked coconut shrimp.
Common Serving Styles
Coconut shrimp is super versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer, a snack, or even as part of a main course. Here are a few ideas:
- Appetizer: Serve it on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces for guests to choose from.
- Main Course: Pair it with rice and a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
- Tacos: Use it as a filling for tacos, adding some slaw and a drizzle of sauce.
- Salad Topping: Add it to a salad for some protein and crunch.
Honestly, I think the best part about coconut shrimp is how easy it is to customize. You can adjust the sweetness, the spice level, and the dipping sauce to suit your own taste. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress, no matter how you serve it.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Shrimp Selection
When it comes to shrimp, bigger isn’t always better, but in this case, it kinda is! I like to use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, but with the tails still on.
It makes them easier to handle during the coating process and gives a nice little handle for dipping.
Make sure your shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before you start. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispier final product. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.
Coating Components
Okay, here’s where the magic happens. The coating is what gives coconut shrimp its signature flavor and texture. You’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This helps the egg stick to the shrimp.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: Provides that distinct coconut flavor and a bit of texture. Sweetened coconut can be used, but the result might be too sweet.
- Spices: A blend of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper adds depth of flavor.
Dipping Sauce Ingredients
Coconut shrimp is good on its own, but it’s even better with a killer dipping sauce. Here are a few ideas:
- Sweet chili sauce: A classic pairing that offers a sweet and spicy flavor.
- Spicy mayo: Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and a touch of lime juice for a creamy, spicy kick.
- Pineapple salsa: A refreshing and tropical option that complements the coconut flavor.
- Honey mustard: A simple yet satisfying choice that adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Setting Up Your Dredging Station
Okay, so first things first, let’s get our dredging station ready. This is where the magic happens, and it’s all about organization. You’ll need three shallow dishes or bowls. I like to use pie plates because they’re wide and easy to work with.
- Dish 1: Flour Mixture. In the first dish, combine your all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other spices you’re using. This is your base layer, so make sure it’s evenly mixed.
- Dish 2: Egg Wash. In the second dish, whisk your eggs with a splash of water. This helps the coating stick and adds a bit of richness.
- Dish 3: Coconut. In the third dish, place your shredded coconut. If you’re using sweetened coconut, you might want to reduce the amount of sugar in your flour mixture.
Coating the Shrimp
Now for the fun part: coating the shrimp! This is where we turn plain shrimp into crispy, coconutty goodness. Here’s the step-by-step:
- Flour Power: Take a shrimp and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. This helps the egg wash adhere properly.
- Egg Dip: Dip the floured shrimp into the egg wash, ensuring it’s completely submerged. Let any excess egg drip off.
- Coconut Shower: Finally, press the shrimp into the shredded coconut, coating it evenly on all sides. Make sure the coconut sticks well.
- Resting Time: Place the coated shrimp on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Repeat with the remaining shrimp.
Air Frying Techniques
Alright, time to get these babies into the air fryer! Here’s how to air fry your coconut shrimp to perfection:
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is important for getting that crispy texture. Some air fryers have a preheat function, but if yours doesn’t, just run it empty for a few minutes. air fryer shrimp
- Arrangement: Place the coated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the basket, or the shrimp will steam instead of crisping up. You might need to cook them in batches.
- Cooking Time: Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and the coconut is golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on your air fryer.
- Check for Doneness: The shrimp are done when they’re opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Use a meat thermometer to check; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
| Shrimp Size | Air Fryer Temp | Cook Time (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | 400°F | 6-8 |
| Large | 400°F | 8-10 |
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Avoiding Overcrowding
Seriously, don’t cram those shrimp in there! Overcrowding the air fryer basket is a recipe for soggy, unevenly cooked shrimp. You want that hot air to circulate around each piece, creating that beautiful, crispy coating.
Work in batches; it might take a little longer, but the results are so worth it. I usually do two batches for a pound of shrimp, making sure each shrimp has its own personal space.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Choosing the Right Coconut
Okay, so coconut might seem like coconut, but there are differences that can impact your final dish. I usually go for unsweetened shredded coconut because it lets the other flavors shine.
If you’re using sweetened coconut, just be mindful of the overall sweetness of your dish and maybe cut back on any added sugar in your dipping sauce.
Also, the texture matters! Finer coconut tends to stick to the shrimp better, so if your coconut is super coarse, you might want to give it a quick pulse in a food processor. This helps with even cooking.
Ensuring Crispiness
Crispiness is the name of the game, right? Here are a few tricks I’ve learned to maximize that crunch:
- Pat the shrimp dry: Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Use paper towels to really dry those shrimp before you start coating them.
- Preheat the air fryer: Just like with an oven, preheating is key. A hot air fryer ensures the coating starts crisping up right away.
- Lightly spray with oil: A light spritz of oil (I like avocado oil) helps the coconut brown and get extra crispy. Don’t overdo it, though, or you’ll end up with greasy shrimp.
- Flip halfway through: This ensures both sides get that golden-brown, crispy goodness.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Best Dipping Sauces
Okay, so you’ve got your air fryer coconut shrimp all crispy and golden. Now what? The right dipping sauce can really take these to the next level. Here are a few ideas:
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A classic for a reason. The sweetness and a little bit of heat complement the coconut perfectly. You can find a good sweet chili sauce at most grocery stores.
- Pineapple Salsa: For a tropical vibe, try a fresh pineapple salsa. The acidity cuts through the richness of the shrimp.
- Spicy Mayo: Mix some mayo with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce. Adjust the amount of spice to your liking.
- Honey Mustard: A simple but effective choice. The sweetness and tanginess work well with the coconut.
- Mango Chutney: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of spice.
Complementary Side Dishes
Coconut shrimp is great as an appetizer, but it can also be part of a full meal. Here are some side dish ideas:
- Rice: Plain white rice, coconut rice, or even a flavorful fried rice all work well.
- Salad: A light, refreshing salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the shrimp. Think mixed greens with a vinaigrette.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw is another classic pairing. You can make your own or buy it pre-made.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions are all great choices.
- Fries: Sometimes you just want fries, right? Sweet potato fries are a fun option.
Beverage Pairings
To complete the meal, you’ll need something to drink. Here are a few suggestions:
- Light Beer: A crisp, light beer like a pilsner or lager is a good choice.
- White Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with seafood.
- Sparkling Wine: For a celebratory touch, try a sparkling wine like Prosecco or Champagne.
- Tropical Cocktails: Think Mai Tais or Piña Coladas. These drinks complement the tropical flavors of the coconut shrimp.
- Iced Tea: A simple and refreshing option, especially on a hot day. Unsweetened or lightly sweetened is best so it doesn’t overpower the shrimp’s flavor.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! This air fryer coconut shrimp recipe is a total game changer. It’s quick, easy, and way healthier than the fried version. Plus, the crispy coating and juicy shrimp are just too good to resist.
Whether you’re serving it up for a party or just treating yourself, these shrimp are sure to impress.
Don’t forget that spicy mayo dipping sauce—it really takes it to the next level. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of the tropics right at home!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is coconut shrimp?
Coconut shrimp is a dish made with shrimp that are coated in shredded coconut and breadcrumbs, then cooked until crispy. The coconut gives it a sweet, tropical taste that goes great with savory shrimp.
How do I make sure my coconut shrimp is crispy?
To keep your coconut shrimp crispy, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook them in batches so that hot air can circulate around each piece.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. If they are still icy, the coating won’t stick well.
What dipping sauce goes well with coconut shrimp?
A spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce is perfect for dipping coconut shrimp. You can mix mayonnaise with chili sauce and a bit of lime juice for a tasty option.
How do I store leftover coconut shrimp?
Store any leftover coconut shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, use the air fryer for a few minutes to keep them crispy.
Is air frying healthier than deep frying?
Yes, air frying uses much less oil than deep frying, which means lower fat and fewer calories while still giving you that crispy texture
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