Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp

Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp Recipe from the Caribbean

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp is a delicious and crispy seafood dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fun appetizer. The combination of coconut and beer in the batter gives the shrimp a unique flavor and texture that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional beer-battered shrimp. The addition of coconut adds a tropical flair to the dish, making it a popular choice for seafood lovers looking for something a little different.

Ingredients

2 eggs
1.75 cup all-purpose flour
0.75 cup beer (6 oz (170 g))
1 tbsp baking powder
4 dozen medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on)
3 cup grated coconut, about 6 oz (170 g)
vegetable oil for deep frying

Seasoning mix

1 tbsp cayenne pepper
2.25 tsp salt
1.5 tsp sweet paprika
1.5 tsp black pepper
1.25 tsp garlic powder
0.75 tsp onion powder
0.75 tsp dried thyme
0.75 tsp dried oregano

How to prepare

Thoroughly combine the ingredients for the seasoning mix in a small bowl and set it aside.
Mix 1.25 cups of flour, 2 tsp of the seasoning mix, baking powder, eggs, and beer together in a bowl, breaking up all lumps until the mixture is smooth.
Combine the remaining flour with 1.5 tsp of the seasoning mix and set it aside.
Place the coconut in a separate bowl.
Sprinkle both sides of the shrimps with the remaining seasoning mix.
Then hold each shrimp by the tail, dredge it in the flour mixture, shake off excess, dip each in the batter and allow excess to drip off.
Coat each shrimp with the coconut and place the shrimp on a baking sheet.
Heat the deep fryer to 350°F (177°C).
Drop each shrimp into the hot oil and cook until golden brown, about 0.5 to 1 minute on each side.
Do not crowd the fryer! Drain the shrimp on paper towels and serve immediately, as is, or with a dipping sauce or fruit preserve.

Variations

For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Substitute the shrimp with fish fillets or chicken strips for a different twist on the recipe.
Add chopped herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, to the batter for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly coat each shrimp in the batter and coconut to ensure a crispy and even coating.

- Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot with enough oil to fully submerge the shrimp for the best results.

- Do not overcrowd the fryer when cooking the shrimp, as this can cause them to cook unevenly.

- Serve the shrimp immediately after frying to maintain their crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp can be served as an appetizer with a side of dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or mango salsa. It can also be served as a main dish with a side of rice and vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp is to ensure that the shrimp are fully coated in the batter and coconut before frying. This will help create a crispy and flavorful coating on the shrimp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have beer on hand, you can substitute it with sparkling water or soda water for a similar effect in the batter. You can also use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the seasoning mix and batter ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry the shrimp. The shrimp can also be coated in the flour and coconut mixture ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve the shrimp in individual serving cups with a side of dipping sauce for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp pairs well with a light and crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also pairs well with a cold beer or a tropical cocktail, such as a piña colada or a margarita.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp is best served fresh and hot, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains shrimp, eggs, and wheat, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp is a delicious and indulgent dish that is high in protein and fats, making it a satisfying treat for seafood lovers.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe book that belonged to my great grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, I stumbled upon a handwritten note tucked between the creases of the book. The note read, "Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp - a family favorite from Aunt Martha's kitchen."

Intrigued by the sound of the recipe, I decided to give it a try. I gathered all the ingredients listed on the note - fresh shrimp, coconut flakes, flour, beer, and seasonings. As I began to prepare the dish, memories of Aunt Martha's kitchen flooded my mind. She was a remarkable cook who could whip up the most delicious meals with ease.

I carefully peeled and deveined the shrimp, making sure to leave the tails intact. I then mixed together the coconut flakes, flour, and seasonings in a bowl before slowly adding in the beer. The batter had the perfect consistency - thick enough to coat the shrimp but light enough to crisp up in the hot oil.

I heated up a pot of oil on the stove and dipped each shrimp into the batter before carefully dropping them into the sizzling oil. The aroma of coconut and beer filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. As the shrimp turned golden brown and crispy, I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe worth keeping.

When the shrimp were cooked to perfection, I plated them up and drizzled them with a tangy dipping sauce I had whipped up on the side. The first bite was pure bliss - the crunch of the coconut batter, the sweetness of the shrimp, and the hint of beer all melded together in a symphony of flavors.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family. They were all gathered around the table, eager to taste the dish that had captivated my senses. As they each took a bite, their eyes widened in delight. They all agreed that this Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp was a dish worth savoring.

From that day on, it became a staple in our family gatherings. Whenever there was a special occasion or a simple Sunday dinner, I would make sure to whip up a batch of Aunt Martha's Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp. It never failed to impress our guests and bring smiles to our faces.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch to make it uniquely mine. But the essence of the dish - the crispy coconut batter, the succulent shrimp, and the subtle hint of beer - remained the same. It was a reminder of the simple joy of cooking and the pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

As I sit here reminiscing about the day I discovered the recipe for Coconut Beer Batter Shrimp, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary traditions passed down through generations. Each recipe tells a story, a tale of love, heritage, and the joy of creating something special in the kitchen.

And so, I will continue to cook and share these recipes with my family, hoping to create new memories and pass on the traditions that have enriched my life. The joy of cooking and the pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones are timeless treasures that I hold dear to my heart. And for that, I am truly grateful.