Baked Coconut Shrimp is a healthier and easy alternative to the fried version. This recipe delivers crispy, coconutty shrimp with a delicious dipping sauce.
Hello friend! Get ready for a tropical taste adventure with this Baked Coconut Shrimp recipe. This dish brings together the sweetness of coconut and the savory taste of shrimp in a crispy, oven-baked delight.
It’s a healthier alternative to the usual fried shrimp, but just as satisfying.
So, let’s get started and whip up this tasty treat!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these simple tools to prepare this dish:
- Three shallow bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
The Recipe
Baked Coconut Shrimp
Ingredients
- ¼ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¼ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sweet chili dipping sauce:
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg and milk, and one with the coconut-panko mixture (combine shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs).
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Dip each shrimp in flour, then egg mixture, and finally in the coconut-panko mixture.
- Place the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the shrimp bakes, whisk together the ingredients for the sweet chili dipping sauce.
- Serve the baked coconut shrimp warm with the dipping sauce.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coconut-panko mixture.
Make sure the shrimp are cooked through; they should be opaque and pink.
Cook method: Baking
Season: All seasons
Alternative Ingredients:
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below:
Ingredient | Alternative |
All-purpose flour | Almond flour or cornstarch |
Panko breadcrumbs | Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers |
Sweet chili sauce | Apricot jam mixed with a pinch of chili powder |
What to Serve with Baked Coconut Shrimp:
You can pair this delicious Baked Coconut Shrimp with the following:
- Steamed rice or quinoa.
- A simple salad.
- Mango salsa.
- Pineapple chunks.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I fry the shrimp instead of baking them?
Yes, you can fry the shrimp in oil until golden brown. However, baking is a healthier option and still yields a crispy result.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating.
Can I make the sweet chili sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Can I use a different type of breading?
Feel free to experiment with different breading options, such as crushed pretzels, cornflakes, or almond flour.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
The shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, and their flesh is firm. It’s that simple.