Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or lengthy prep time? Then look no further! This Asian Coconut Shrimp recipe is your answer. It’s a fantastically flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet sophisticated recipe! This easy recipe is bursting with delicious Asian-inspired flavors, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional: Lime wedges for serving, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, place the beaten egg. In the third, combine the shredded coconut, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
Step 3: Bread the Shrimp
Dredge each shrimp in the flour, then dip it in the egg, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, press the shrimp into the coconut mixture, making sure it's evenly coated.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded shrimp in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While the shrimp is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
Step 6: Serve
Once the shrimp is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Drizzle the sauce over the coconut shrimp and garnish with chopped green onions and a lime wedge, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Tips for the Best Asian Coconut Shrimp:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the coconut mixture for a spicier kick.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will elevate the flavor of your dish significantly.
- Serve with a side: This Asian Coconut Shrimp pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the coconut breading for extra heat.
- Sweet Chili Shrimp: Substitute sweet chili sauce for the honey-soy sauce mixture.
- Panko Crumbs: Substitute panko bread crumbs for the coconut for a different texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on shrimp size and specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, one serving (approximately 3-4 shrimp) contains roughly:
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Asian Coconut Shrimp recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and easy to make. It’s a great option for homemade cooking, showcasing some of the best recipes available for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy!