Coconut Shrimp with Orange-Chili Dipping Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors. The shrimp are coated in a light, crunchy coconut and Panko breadcrumb mixture, then fried to golden perfection. Paired with a zesty orange-chili dipping sauce, this appetizer is sure to impress at any gathering. The contrast between the crunchy coating and the juicy shrimp, along with the sweet heat of the sauce, makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tail on
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- About 2 cups canola, vegetable, or coconut oil, for frying
For the Orange-Chili Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup orange marmalade
- ⅓ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- Pinch of salt, optional and to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper, optional and to taste
Instructions:
Make the Shrimp:
- Prep the Shrimp:
- Clean the shrimp by peeling and deveining them, but leave the tails on for easier handling and presentation. Set the cleaned shrimp aside.
- Prepare the Breading Stations:
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will help season the shrimp. Set aside.
- In another small bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded coconut and Panko breadcrumbs. Stir to ensure an even mixture. Set aside.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a Dutch oven or large skillet, pour in enough oil to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 325°F to 350°F. This temperature range will give the shrimp a crispy, golden coating.
- Bread the Shrimp:
- Start the breading process by dredging each shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the shrimp into the coconut-Panko mixture, coating it thoroughly. If any shrimp seem under-coated, you can repeat the process for a thicker crust.
- Place the coated shrimp on a platter and continue the process with the remaining shrimp.
- Fry the Shrimp:
- Once the oil is hot enough, fry the shrimp in small batches of 4 to 6 at a time. Fry for about 2 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The shrimp should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Remove the fried shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels. Continue frying the remaining shrimp in batches.
Make the Orange-Chili Dipping Sauce:
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the orange marmalade and sweet Thai chili sauce. Stir until well blended. For a bit of extra heat, add a pinch of salt and cayenne pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the fried coconut shrimp immediately with the orange-chili dipping sauce on the side. The shrimp are best enjoyed warm and fresh, with the sauce adding a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
Tips:
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy coating. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, adjusting the heat as needed.
- Coconut Variation: For a different flavor profile, try using unsweetened coconut for a less sweet, more savory coating. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the coconut-Panko mixture for an extra kick.
- Make-Ahead: If you’re preparing this dish for a party, you can bread the shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. Just make sure the shrimp are breaded and not fried ahead of time, as the coating will lose its crispness.
- Serving Ideas: Serve the shrimp on a platter with slices of fresh lime or orange for an extra citrusy touch. This dish pairs well with a light salad or a side of jasmine rice for a more substantial meal.
This Coconut Shrimp with Orange-Chili Dipping Sauce is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, appetizers, or even a special dinner at home. The crispy coconut coating and the tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce make it an unforgettable dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
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