Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, golden coconut shrimp paired with a creamy, sweet chili mayo sauce is a dream come true. This dish is light, crunchy, and bursting with tropical flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish.

Pure Comfort

The combination of crunchy coconut and succulent shrimp creates the perfect texture contrast, while the sweet and tangy mayo dip adds a luscious finishing touch.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sweet Chili Mayo:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp sriracha (optional, for spice)

What You Need

A frying pan or deep fryer, tongs, three shallow bowls for dredging, and a plate lined with paper towels.

Time to Cook

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Steps to Make It

1. Prep the Coating

In three separate bowls, place flour mixed with salt and pepper, beaten eggs, and a mixture of shredded coconut, panko, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Coat the Shrimp

Dredge each shrimp in the flour, dip it into the eggs, and coat with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

3. Heat the Oil

In a deep pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

4. Fry the Shrimp

Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Make the Sweet Chili Mayo

Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth.

6. Serve

Serve the shrimp hot with a side of sweet chili mayo for dipping.

Make It Perfect

• Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to prevent greasy shrimp.
• Press the coconut coating firmly to ensure it sticks well.
• Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.

Mix It Up

• Add shredded coconut to the dipping sauce for extra coconut flavor.
• Use tempura batter instead of flour for a lighter coating.
• Try baking or air frying for a healthier version.

Perfect Partners

• Mango salsa for a fruity contrast
• A side of jasmine rice
• A fresh tropical salad

Busy Day Hero

This dish can be prepped in advance. Coat the shrimp and store them in the fridge until ready to fry.

Work Ahead

You can freeze breaded shrimp before frying. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.

Save Some For Later

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F until crispy.

Everyone’s Happy

This dish is great for entertaining, making it a hit at parties, game nights, or family gatherings.

Good For You Too

Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories. Using an air fryer instead of deep frying makes this a healthier option.

Easy Clean Up

Using a deep fryer or an air fryer minimizes oil splatter. Lining your plate with paper towels helps with excess oil absorption.

Switch It Up

• Swap shrimp for chicken tenders for a kid-friendly version.
• Use gluten-free flour and panko for a gluten-free alternative.
• Substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter dip.

Simply Perfect

This Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo is the ultimate blend of crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the coconut shrimp instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. What can I use instead of panko?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work well.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dipping sauce.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally dairy-free.

5. How do I store leftover coconut shrimp?

Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in an oven or air fryer.

6. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat dry before coating.

7. What other dipping sauces go well with coconut shrimp?

Try honey mustard, mango chutney, or a pineapple salsa for variety.

Conclusion

Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo is the ultimate crowd-pleaser with its crispy texture and flavorful dipping sauce. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, these shrimp are sure to be a hit!

Discover More Delicious Seafood Recipes

If you loved this Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo, why not try more incredible seafood-inspired dishes? Enjoy the crispy perfection of Tempura Shrimp for another take on crunchy, golden-fried shrimp. For a rich and indulgent meal, Yummy Crab is a must-try. If you’re craving something comforting, Pineapple Casserole offers a unique sweet-and-savory twist that pairs beautifully with seafood. Looking for an elegant dish? Branzino Recipe delivers delicate flavors in a restaurant-worthy presentation. And don’t forget to add some greens to your plate with a refreshing Broccoli Cauliflower Salad—the perfect side to balance out your meal!

Explore these recipes to bring more bold flavors to your kitchen!

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