Name: Baked Coconut Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Cooking spray or oil for baking

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Baked Coconut Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of coconut with the savory flavor of shrimp. This baked version is a healthier alternative to traditional fried shrimp, offering a satisfying crunch and bright tropical taste. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe for a party, snack, or a fun family dinner!

Recipe Information

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 300
Protein: 22 grams
Carbohydrates: 28 grams
Fat: 10 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 400 mg

Why Make This Baked Coconut Shrimp

Baked Coconut Shrimp brings a taste of the tropics straight to your kitchen. The combination of coconut and shrimp creates a mouthwatering contrast of flavors and textures. This dish is not only a hit for seafood lovers but also offers a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal and impressive enough for entertaining guests. Serve it with a zesty dipping sauce, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s hard to resist!

How to Make Baked Coconut Shrimp

Cooking Baked Coconut Shrimp involves a few straightforward steps that lead to delicious results. Below, I’ll guide you through the entire process, making it easy for you to follow along and create your own version at home.

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking spray or oil for baking

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your shrimp will bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Mixing

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder thoroughly. In another dish, beat the eggs until well combined. In a third dish, mix the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunchy coating.

Step 3: Coating

Take each shrimp and dip it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dunk it in the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, before coating it in the coconut-panko mixture. Make sure to press gently so the mixture adheres well to the shrimp.

Step 4: Baking

Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or drizzle with oil to promote browning. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp turn golden brown and are cooked through. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for dipping and savoring.

How to Serve Baked Coconut Shrimp

Serve your Baked Coconut Shrimp hot out of the oven as a delicious appetizer or a main dish. It pairs wonderfully with a sweet chili sauce, a tangy soy sauce, or even a zesty homemade mango salsa. Just imagine dipping that crispy shrimp into your sauce of choice – delicious!

How to Store Baked Coconut Shrimp

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the shrimp cool completely then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain that crispy coating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Coconut Shrimp

Ensure your shrimp are well-dried before coating; this helps the breading stick better.
Experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture, such as paprika or cayenne, for added flavor.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Coconut Shrimp: Add some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for heat!
Tropical Shrimp Skewers: Thread the shrimp onto skewers before coating, perfect for grilling or serving at a barbecue.
Coconut Crusted Tofu: For a vegan option, use firm tofu cut into strips instead of shrimp for a similar crispy treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thoroughly thaw and dry them before breading.
What dip pairs best with Baked Coconut Shrimp?
Sweet chili sauce or a lime mayonnaise work wonderfully as dips!
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the shrimp a few hours before baking. Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
While panko gives a fantastic crunch, you can use regular breadcrumbs if needed, though the texture may be slightly different.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Baked Coconut Shrimp is not just an easy recipe; it’s a flavor-packed delight that’s sure to impress anyone at your table. The combination of the crispy exterior and juicy shrimp makes each bite a tropical treat you’ll want to savor. Encourage your inner chef and give this recipe a try. You might just discover a new favorite dish that you’ll want to make again and again! Happy cooking!