Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

Name: Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper; 2 large eggs; ⅔ cup unsweetened flaked coconut; ⅓ cup panko bread crumbs; 12 ounces uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; cooking spray; ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided; ¼ cup honey; ¼ cup lime juice; 1 serrano chile, thinly sliced; 2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro

By Olivia

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These Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp are crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. Coated in a crunchy coconut and panko breading, these shrimp are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. Paired with a zesty, spicy honey-lime dip, this dish makes an excellent appetizer, snack, or main course for any occasion.

Quick Benefits

Quick to Make: These shrimp cook in just about 6 minutes in the air fryer, making this dish a fast option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Lower in Fat: Air frying the shrimp reduces the need for excessive oil, offering a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
Packed with Protein: Shrimp are a great source of lean protein, making this dish a filling and nutritious option.
Flavorful and Versatile: The shrimp are coated in coconut and panko, creating a crispy texture and pairing wonderfully with the spicy honey-lime dip.

Essential Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base for the first dredging step, ensuring the coconut and panko adhere to the shrimp.
Ground Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the coating.
Eggs: Used to help bind the flour and coconut mixture to the shrimp.
Unsweetened Flaked Coconut: Adds the signature tropical coconut flavor and texture.
Panko Bread Crumbs: Gives the shrimp a crispy, light crunch when fried.
Shrimp: Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, are the main protein in this dish.
Cooking Spray: Ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and get a crispy texture in the air fryer.
Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavors of the shrimp and dip.

For the Dip:

Honey: Sweetens the dip and balances the heat from the serrano chile.
Lime Juice: Adds a tart, citrusy contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
Serrano Chile: Adds a spicy kick to the dip, which can be adjusted to your heat preference.
Fresh Cilantro: Freshens the dish and adds a burst of flavor.

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Coating: In three shallow dishes, set up your dredging station:
- In the first dish, combine flour and black pepper.
- In the second dish, lightly beat the eggs.
- In the third dish, mix together the coconut flakes and panko bread crumbs.
Coat the Shrimp: Working one shrimp at a time, dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it in the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp in the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Place the shrimp on a plate and coat them with cooking spray.
Preheat and Cook the Shrimp: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place half of the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 3 minutes, then flip the shrimp over and cook for an additional 3 minutes until golden and crispy. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Repeat with the remaining shrimp.
Prepare the Dip: While the shrimp are cooking, whisk together honey, lime juice, and serrano chile in a small bowl until combined.
Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked, sprinkle them with fresh cilantro and serve with the honey-lime dip.

Health Benefits

High in Protein: Shrimp are a great source of lean protein, supporting muscle health and keeping you fuller for longer.
Lower in Calories: Air frying significantly reduces the fat and calorie content compared to deep frying, making this dish a healthier option.
Rich in Vitamins: The cilantro and lime juice provide vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and skin health.
Healthy Fats: The coconut adds a small amount of healthy fats, contributing to heart health.

Serving Suggestions

Appetizer: Serve these coconut shrimp as an appetizer at your next gathering or party.
Main Course: Pair with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
With Drinks: These shrimp go perfectly with a refreshing cocktail, like a mojito or a light beer.
Over Noodles: Serve the shrimp over a bed of rice noodles for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Creative Variations

Spicy Variations: Add more serrano chiles to the dip or sprinkle some chili powder over the shrimp for added heat.
Pineapple Dip: Combine honey, lime juice, and finely chopped pineapple for a tropical dip that complements the coconut shrimp.
Vegan Version: Substitute shrimp with large mushroom caps or tofu cubes for a plant-based option, following the same breading and air frying steps.
Coconut Crusted Chicken: Replace shrimp with small pieces of chicken breast for a chicken version of this recipe.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover coconut shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the shrimp, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 350°F.
Dip Storage: The honey-lime dip can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again.

Pro Tips

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh or well-thawed shrimp that have been peeled and deveined.
Adjust the Heat: You can adjust the amount of serrano chile in the dipping sauce to suit your spice tolerance, or substitute it with red pepper flakes for a milder heat.
Coating Consistency: Press the coconut-panko mixture onto the shrimp gently to ensure the coating sticks well during cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating to avoid soggy shrimp.

Can I use a different type of coconut?
Unsweetened shredded coconut works best for this recipe, but if you only have sweetened coconut, reduce the amount of honey in the dipping sauce to balance the sweetness.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of air frying them?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

How do I make the dip spicier?
If you prefer a spicier dip, you can add more serrano chiles, use a hotter variety of pepper, or incorporate a spoonful of sriracha sauce into the honey-lime mixture.

These Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp are a deliciously crispy and flavorful treat, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with the tangy honey-lime dip for a delightful and healthy dish!