If you're in the mood for a delightful seafood dish that's both simple to make and bursting with flavour, you're in the right place. Today, we'll be exploring a delicious and easy-to-make spicy coconut shrimp recipe that is perfect for air frying. This recipe is a winner not just for its taste, but also for its convenience, making it a staple for home cooks in the UK and beyond.
Ingredients
- 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a light brush of vegetable oil
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- In a bowl, combine the shredded coconut, breadcrumbs, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This will be your dry coating mixture.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and season with a small pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating to stick better.
- Dip each shrimp in the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated, then transfer to the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap. Spray lightly with cooking oil to help crisp them up.
- Air fry for 7-8 minutes or until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness.
- Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Success
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Ensure there's enough space between the shrimp for air circulation, which is crucial for that crispy coating.
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. Conversely, add more if you like an extra kick.
- Fresh ingredients: Always try to use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavour. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they're thoroughly thawed before cooking.
Complementary Dishes
These spicy coconut shrimp make a great main dish, but they can also be part of a larger meal. Here are a few sides that pair well:
- Coconut rice or jasmine rice
- Grilled vegetables (such as bell peppers and courgettes)
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
Nutritional Information
For those watching their calorie intake, air frying is a healthier method compared to traditional frying. Each serving of these shrimp contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 18g
Conclusion
Our spicy coconut shrimp is a delightful balance of flavour and texture, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive starter at a dinner party. The use of an air fryer simplifies the cooking process while retaining the deliciously crispy texture that makes this dish a favourite. Invite a taste of the tropics into your kitchen and enjoy this recipe with your family and friends!