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Delightful Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp: A Tempting Treat

Coconut shrimp has long been a favourite for seafood lovers, combining the juicy sweetness of prawns with the tropical flavour of coconut. Traditionally fried, it can be a bit heavy and greasy; however, the advent of air fryers has made this delectable dish healthier without sacrificing its signature crunch. In this article, we will guide you through preparing delicious air fryer coconut shrimp, perfect for a snack, appetiser, or even a main course.

Ingredients You Will Need

To create this mouth-watering dish, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Shrimp:

  • 450g large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (with tails on for presentation)
  • 100g plain flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 200g desiccated coconut
  • 100g panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Coconut Dipping Sauce:
  • 60ml sweet chilli sauce
  • 30ml mayonnaise
  • 10ml lime juice

Preparing the Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with kitchen paper. It is essential to remove excess moisture to ensure that the coating adheres well and the result is a crisp finish.

Step 2: Setting Up the Breading Station

You’ll need three separate bowls for the breading process:

1. Flour Bowl: Mix the plain flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Egg Bowl: Beat the eggs in a bowl until fully mixed.
3. Coconut Mixture Bowl: Combine the desiccated coconut and panko breadcrumbs (if using), ensuring an even mix for optimal coverage.

Step 3: Coating the Shrimp

1. Taking each shrimp, first dip it into the flour, ensuring it is fully coated and shaking off any excess.
2. Next, immerse it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
3. Finally, roll the shrimp in the coconut mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. Repeat this process for all shrimp.

Step 4: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for approximately 5 minutes. This step ensures an even cook and promotes that beloved crispiness.

Step 5: Air Frying the Shrimp

Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded for optimal air circulation. Lightly spray them with cooking oil to encourage browning.

Air fry the shrimp for 8-10 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. They should turn a golden brown, crisp on the outside while remaining succulent inside.

Preparing the Coconut Dipping Sauce

While the shrimp are cooking, whip up a simple dipping sauce that will complement your coconut shrimp beautifully. In a small bowl, mix together the sweet chilli sauce, mayonnaise, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust the ingredients to taste if desired—add more lime for tang or more chilli for a kick.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. The delightful crunch of the shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy, zesty dipping sauce. Consider serving your air fryer coconut shrimp with a side of fresh salad or a tropical fruit salsa for an extra burst of flavour.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer coconut shrimp is a splendid dish that marries health-conscious cooking with indulgent flavours. With its crispy texture and alluring coconut sweetness, it’s a perfect addition to any gathering or a delightful treat for a cosy night in. Enjoy the tropical vibes and savour each bite—this recipe is sure to become a household favourite!

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