– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Follow these simple steps to create your Coconut Shrimp:
1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Set Up a Dredging Station: In three shallow bowls, place the flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and mix the coconut, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper in the third.
3. Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before coating it in the coconut mixture. Press lightly to ensure an even coating.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour about half an inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Fry the Shrimp: Add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain Excess Oil: Once crispy, remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
7. Keep Warm: If needed, keep the cooked shrimp warm in a low oven until all batches are done.
8. Serve: Transfer the Coconut Shrimp to a serving platter and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
By following these straightforward instructions, you’ll have perfectly crisp Coconut Shrimp that’s sure to wow anyone!