Baked Coconut Shrimp

Baked Coconut Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the flavor of the tropics right to your kitchen. With its crunchy exterior and tender shrimp, it’s a dish that wows at parties or serves as a satisfying weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and a breeze to bake, this recipe is perfect for shrimp lovers and a great way to introduce this delicious seafood to those who may be hesitant.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg

Why Make This Baked Coconut Shrimp

Making Baked Coconut Shrimp at home is both fun and rewarding. The crunchy coating of panko breadcrumbs and coconut combined with the juicy shrimp creates a taste sensation that’s both satisfying and slightly exotic. Baking instead of frying keeps this dish lighter while still providing the crunch that everyone loves. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or even as part of a seafood platter!

How to Make Baked Coconut Shrimp

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preparing your oven beforehand ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and beautifully.

Step 2: Mixing

Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and lightly spraying it with cooking spray. This step prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup later.

Step 3: Cooking

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for the flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another for the beaten eggs, and the last for mixing shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, shake off the excess, dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the coconut-panko mixture. Place the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet and spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.

Step 4: Finishing

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or oil for baking

How to Serve Baked Coconut Shrimp

Baked Coconut Shrimp can be served hot right out of the oven. Pair it with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce like apricot preserves or a spicy sriracha mayo for the perfect balance of flavors. It makes an excellent appetizer for gatherings or a fun main dish served over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad.

How to Store Baked Coconut Shrimp

To store leftover Baked Coconut Shrimp, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Coconut Shrimp

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the flour to your taste by adding garlic powder or paprika.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
• Make sure to spray the tops with cooking spray, which helps achieve that golden crust without frying.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Coconut Shrimp: Mix cayenne pepper into the flour or add chili powder to the panko for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Coconut Shrimp: Add finely chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley to the coconut-panko mixture for a fresh twist.
• Coconut Crusted Tofu: Try the same coating method with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen shrimp?
  Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely before breading.

• Can I bake these shrimp without coating?
  While you can bake shrimp without a coating, they will lack the crunch and flavor provided by the coconut and panko.

• What can I substitute for shrimp?
  Try chicken tenders or even firm-fleshed fish like cod or tilapia for a different protein option.

• What’s the best dipping sauce?
  Popular choices are sweet chili sauce, tangy mango salsa, or even a simple aioli.

• How do I know when the shrimp are done?
  Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They are also firm to the touch.

Conclusion

Baked Coconut Shrimp is not only a delightful dish to enjoy but also a fun recipe to make. With its crispy coating and tender shrimp, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or indulging in a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds and provide a taste of the tropics. Go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious results!