Air-Fried Coconut Shrimp are crispy, golden bites of shrimp coated in a sweet and savory coconut crust. The air fryer gives them a satisfying crunch with a fraction of the oil compared to traditional frying. These shrimp are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish and pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce like sweet chili or honey-lime.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Sweet chili sauce or honey-lime dipping sauce (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Set up breading station:
- In the first shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the second shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In the third shallow bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
- Coat the shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the Panko-coconut mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Air fry the shrimp: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Place the shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 18-20 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4 people as an appetizer or 2-3 people as a main dish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate for 4 Servings):
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Key Notes:
- Crispiness Tip: Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray before air frying to enhance crispiness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour and Panko with gluten-free alternatives.
- Customize the Flavor: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick or swap sweetened coconut for unsweetened if you prefer less sweetness.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to regain crispiness.
- Dipping Sauce Suggestions: Sweet chili sauce, mango chutney, or a creamy lime-cilantro dip complement the shrimp perfectly.
Enjoy these delicious Air-Fried Coconut Shrimp as a flavorful and healthy alternative to fried seafood!