Coconut Shrimp and Dipping Sauce

Coconut Shrimp and Dipping Sauce Recipe - Caribbean Cuisine

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

Introduction

Coconut shrimp is a popular dish that combines the sweetness of coconut with the savory taste of shrimp. This recipe takes it up a notch by adding a creamy and tangy dipping sauce that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp.

History

Coconut shrimp is believed to have originated in the Caribbean, where coconut is a common ingredient in many dishes. The combination of coconut and shrimp is a match made in culinary heaven, creating a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

1.5 cups cornstarch, divided
2 cups plain breadcrumbs
2 cups sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup coco lópez (cream of coconut)
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 lb (454 g) of raw, shelled, deveined and butterflied shrimp

Dipping sauce

0.33 cup sour cream
0.33 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
0.5 cup coco lópez

How to prepare

On a large plate, place 1 cup of corn starch and set it aside.
In a bowl, combine 1 cup of Coco López and powdered sugar. Stir until well combined.
In another large plate, combine bread crumbs, 0.5 cup of cornstarch, and coconut. Whisk around to blend them together.
Dip and coat each shrimp in the cornstarch.
Then, dip and coat each shrimp in the Coco López, and then dip and coat it in the bread crumb mixture.
Repeat the previous step one more time, by dipping them in the Coco López and then the bread crumb mix.
Bring oil to a boil at a temperature of 375°F (191°C).
Place each shrimp in the boiling oil and let them boil until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent a drop in temperature.
Place the cooked shrimp on a colander to drain.
Assemble the dipping sauce in a small bowl by combining sour cream, Coco López, and pineapple. Mix well.
Serve and enjoy!

Variations

For a healthier version, you can bake the shrimp instead of frying them.
You can also add spices like cayenne pepper or paprika to the bread crumb mixture for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly butterfly the shrimp to ensure even cooking and a nice presentation.

- Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot for frying the shrimp to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying the shrimp, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp.

- Drain the cooked shrimp on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut shrimp can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish with a side of rice or salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is deep frying the shrimp to achieve a crispy and golden brown exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream of coconut, you can substitute it with coconut milk or coconut cream.

Make Ahead Tips

You can bread the shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to fry. This can save you time when preparing the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the coconut shrimp on a bed of shredded lettuce with the dipping sauce on the side for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Coconut shrimp pairs well with tropical fruits like mango or pineapple, as well as a refreshing cocktail like a piña colada.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover coconut shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of coconut shrimp contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of coconut shrimp contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of coconut shrimp contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of coconut shrimp contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Coconut shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains shrimp, coconut, and dairy (sour cream), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Coconut shrimp is a delicious and indulgent dish that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Coconut shrimp is a delicious and indulgent dish that combines the sweetness of coconut with the savory taste of shrimp. With a crispy exterior and a creamy dipping sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day, and I had decided to spend the afternoon at the local farmer's market, searching for fresh ingredients to inspire me in the kitchen. As I meandered through the stalls, the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas of ripe fruits and vegetables filled the air.

And then, I spotted it. A small booth tucked away in the corner, with a sign that simply read "Coconut Shrimp and Dipping Sauce." Intrigued, I made my way over and struck up a conversation with the elderly woman behind the counter.

She smiled warmly at me and began to tell me about the recipe she had developed years ago, inspired by her travels to the tropical islands of the Caribbean. She described how the crispy coconut coating on the shrimp paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy dipping sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that was simply irresistible.

I was captivated by her passion and enthusiasm for cooking, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. So, I asked her if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed, and we spent the rest of the afternoon chatting and exchanging stories about our love for food and cooking.

As she walked me through the steps of preparing the coconut shrimp and dipping sauce, I could see the twinkle in her eye and the joy in her smile. It was clear that this recipe held a special place in her heart, and I felt honored to be entrusted with it.

After saying our goodbyes, I hurried home to my kitchen, eager to recreate the flavors and memories of that day at the farmer's market. I gathered the ingredients – plump shrimp, shredded coconut, flour, eggs, and a medley of spices – and set to work, following the instructions that the kind woman had shared with me.

The aroma of toasted coconut and sizzling shrimp filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. I watched as the shrimp turned golden brown and crispy, the coconut flakes glistening in the light. And when I dipped them into the sweet and tangy sauce, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but think of the elderly woman at the farmer's market and the connection we had forged over a shared love for cooking. In that moment, I realized that recipes are not just about ingredients and measurements – they are about stories and memories, passed down through generations and shared with those we hold dear.

And so, every time I make coconut shrimp and dipping sauce, I think of that hot summer day at the farmer's market and the kind woman who inspired me to try something new. Her recipe has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that food can bring into our lives.

As I take another bite of the crispy coconut shrimp, savoring the flavors of the tropics and the memories of that day, I can't help but smile. Cooking is not just about following a recipe – it's about creating something beautiful and meaningful, something that nourishes not only our bodies but also our souls.

And for that, I am forever grateful to the elderly woman at the farmer's market, who shared her passion for food and cooking with me that fateful day. Her coconut shrimp and dipping sauce will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of good food and good company to bring us together and create lasting memories.