Air-Fried Coconut Shrimp: A Tasty, Healthy Treat

Coconut shrimp is a popular restaurant appetizer, but it can also be made at home in an air fryer. This cooking method is healthier than deep frying, as it uses less oil, and it's also quick and easy to do. The shrimp cooks in the air fryer in under 10 minutes and comes out perfectly crispy and golden. The key to getting the shrimp crispy is to pat them dry before coating and cooking, and to ensure they're not overcrowded in the air fryer basket. The shrimp can be served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, or as a main dish with rice and vegetables.

How to make coconut shrimp in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour/coconut flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4-3/4 cup shredded/flaked unsweetened coconut
• 1/4-1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes also work)
• 12-16 oz uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (with tails on or off)
• 2 eggs
• Cooking spray
• Freshly chopped parsley/cilantro, to serve

Optional Ingredients for a Dipping Sauce:

• Honey
• Lime juice
• Serrano chile/red chili flakes/cayenne pepper
• Mayonnaise
• Thai sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha
• Mango
• Ginger

Utensils:

• 3 shallow bowls
• Whisk/spoon
• Baking tray/plate
• Air fryer

Method:

• Set up your dredging station with the following in separate bowls: the flour mixed with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper; beaten eggs; and the panko and shredded coconut mixed together.
• One by one, dredge each shrimp first in the flour, then the eggs, and finally the panko mixture. Gently push the panko mixture onto the shrimp to make sure it adheres. Place on a baking tray.
• Preheat the air fryer to between 360-400°F (200°C).
• Grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the shrimp inside, ensuring they aren't touching. Spray the top of the shrimp with cooking spray.
• Air fry for 6 minutes, then flip the shrimp and spray once more. Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes.
• Season with salt and garnish with freshly chopped parsley/cilantro. Serve with your choice of dipping sauce.

The best ingredients for coconut shrimp

Coconut shrimp is a delicious snack, side dish, or appetizer. The best ingredients for coconut shrimp are:

Shrimp:

Use large shrimp for this recipe. If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. Peel and devein the shrimp, but keep the tails on to make them easier to pick up and eat.

Flour:

Use all-purpose flour for the coating. For those with a wheat intolerance, a 1:1 GF flour or coconut flour also works.

Eggs:

The coating sticks to the shrimp with the help of whisked eggs.

Coconut:

Use unsweetened shredded coconut. However, sweetened shredded coconut melts and creates a crisp and slightly caramelized coating. If you prefer unsweetened coconut, you can still use it, but the coating will be less sweet.

Breadcrumbs:

Gluten-free panko breadcrumbs create a nice, crispy crust. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won't be as light and crunchy as panko.

Oil:

When frying coconut shrimp, use a cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut oil or vegetable oil.

Seasonings:

Add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the flour for extra flavor.

Dipping Sauce:

Coconut shrimp can be served with various dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce, spicy honey-lime dip, or a mix of orange marmalade, mustard, and horseradish.

How to store and reheat coconut shrimp

Coconut shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

When it comes to reheating, the best option is to use an air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F and place the shrimp inside for 3-4 minutes. This method will ensure the shrimp stays crunchy and doesn't become soggy.

If you don't have an air fryer, you can also use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the shrimp on a baking sheet. Leave them to reheat for about 10 minutes. This method may not yield the same level of crispiness as the air fryer, but it will still warm up the shrimp evenly.

Another option is to use a microwave, which will take around 5 minutes. However, microwaving may result in chewier shrimp with a less crispy exterior.

You can also reheat coconut shrimp using a stovetop, toaster oven, or grill, but these methods are not recommended as they may overcook the shrimp or affect its flavour and texture.

Dipping sauces for coconut shrimp

Coconut shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance its flavour. Here are some ideas for dipping sauces that will perfectly complement the crispy and juicy coconut shrimp:

Spicy Honey-Lime Dip

For a simple yet delicious dip, whisk together honey, lime juice, and serrano chile. This dip adds a spicy and tangy twist to the sweetness of the coconut shrimp.

Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet chili sauce is a classic pairing with coconut shrimp. It provides a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavours, and its sticky texture coats the shrimp beautifully.

Apricot Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

For a tropical twist, combine equal parts sweet chili sauce and apricot preserves or apricot fruit spread. This sauce is not spicy and offers a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavours.

Orange-Chili Dipping Sauce

This sauce is an Outback Steakhouse copycat recipe. It is made by whisking together orange marmalade, sweet Thai chili sauce, and a pinch of cayenne pepper and salt to taste. The savoury and spicy Thai chili sauce adds depth to the sweetness of the orange marmalade, creating a mouthwatering dip.

Pina Colada Dipping Sauce

Inspired by Red Lobster's coconut shrimp sauce, this dip is a blend of Greek or plain yogurt, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt. It offers a creamy, sweet, and tangy experience that pairs perfectly with the coconut shrimp.

Spicy Mayo

For those who enjoy a creamy kick, spicy mayo is an excellent choice. It combines the richness of mayonnaise with a hint of spice, making it a tasty complement to the crispy shrimp.

Hot Honey Sauce

Hot honey sauce brings a touch of sweetness and a subtle kick to the coconut shrimp. It is a versatile sauce that can be adjusted to your preferred level of spiciness.

What to serve with coconut shrimp

Coconut shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, party snack, or part of a main course. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

Side Dishes

• Salads: Try a colourful salad with zesty citrus fruits, or a kale slaw with red onions, olive oil, lemon, and chilli flakes. You could also make a quinoa salad with tomatoes, spinach, onion, avocado, and cucumber.
• Rice: Coconut rice or pineapple fried rice would make a great side dish. For coconut rice, simmer white rice in a coconut milk broth. For pineapple fried rice, cook rice with pineapple chunks, ham, egg, onion, and curry powder.
• Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables such as sweet potato fries or wedges, grilled pineapple, or ginger-glazed carrots would complement the coconut shrimp.
• Dips and Sauces: Serve with a spicy honey-lime dip, tzatziki, avocado dip, or sweet chilli salsa.

Main Course

• Coconut shrimp can be served as a main course with a side of vegetables, rice, or salad.
• For a heartier meal, pair it with a starch such as potatoes, mac and cheese, or lasagna.

Dessert

For a tropical finish to your meal, try a piña colada, pineapple upside-down cake, or dark chocolate mousse.

Frequently asked questions