I couldn’t stop eating these Air-Fried Coconut Shrimp; so of course, they had to go on the blog.
Yep – another shrimp recipe. I can’t be stopped!
All jokes aside, you guys know I love all things shrimp. Pappadeaux used to have this coconut shrimp appetizer on their menu that was amazing! There’s actually a funny story where I went to go see Avengers: Endgame in theaters and my group snuck in an order of coconut shrimp and an order of Pasta Mardi-Gras to eat during the 3-hour show. Not my proudest moment, but I did get retweeted by Pappadeaux so it was kind of worth it.
Unfortunately, I don’t think they serve it anymore. I had to put my creativity into gear and come up with something I can whip up at home… and these air-fried coconut shrimp came out so well!
Make sure you use Panko bread crumbs instead of normal ones; because those bread crumbs are light and fluffy, they keep the breading extra crispy. Also, you can season your shrimp and the breading if you prefer. I like to only season the breading since I also dip my shrimp in a sauce that contains salt.
I included instructions for air-frying and regular frying. Air-frying is definitely more hands-off (just set the timer and go) while regular frying is a little more involved, but still not difficult at all. If you fry these in oil, be sure to let drain on a paper towel before serving. Serve these air-fried coconut shrimp with french fries and your favorite dipping sauce.
What’s a dish that you used to love that a restaurant discontinued? Have you tried re-creating it at home? Let me know in the comments.
Air-Fried Coconut Shrimp
Ingredients
- 25 ct. shrimp large
- ¾ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ct. eggs
- ½ ct. lime
Instructions
- In a large and shallow bowl, combine panko bread crumbs and shredded coconut.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs until beaten. Squeeze 1/2 of the lime into the eggs for a hint of tropical flavor.
- In one more bowl, add flour. Season with salt + pepper + a pinch of paprika.
- Dredge the shrimp in flour, then dunk into the egg mixture, then dredge in the coconut mixture. Be sure to press the coconut mixture fully onto the shrimp so it's covered completely.
- Add shrimp to the air fryer and cook in batches according to your air fryer instructions. My air fryer worked best at 375°F for about 5 minutes. You want your shrimp to be golden brown. Don't have an air fryer? You can fry normally – heat some vegetable oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Fry until golden brown, for 3-5 minutes.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce – I love a good sweet chili sauce with this. Enjoy!
The Coined Breakdown
- Total Cost per serving: $3.15
- Total Cost (4 servings): $12.61
- Those Other Guys: $9.99 per serving
These look so good. I love coconut shrimp!
Me too Angela! Thanks so much for commenting 🙂