Crispy Outback Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

Craving the best outback coconut shrimp recipe? Try my simple, crispy version! Perfect for parties or a light dinner. Discover it here!

A Taste of Paradise: Crispy Outback Coconut Shrimp Recipe

Oh my gosh, have you ever had those crispy outback coconut shrimp from outback steakhouse? they’re pure magic! picture this: juicy shrimp, coated in a sweet coconut batter, fried to a perfect golden crunch, and served with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce.

Seriously, it’s tropical flavors partying on a plate!

Coconut shrimp has roots in various tropical cuisines, especially within the caribbean and southeast asia. it’s a dish meant to evoke sandy beaches and sunny skies.

Making this dish at home can seem a bit tricky, but trust me, it’s totally doable. this medium-difficulty recipe takes about 55 minutes from start to finish, and yields about 4 servings .

Perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself!

Now, let’s talk benefits. not only is this dish a flavor-packed party appetizer , it's also a great source of protein.

Those plump gulf shrimp are not just tasty; they’ll fuel you for a fun beach day or a cozy movie night.

Plus, the crispy coating is to die for! this recipe is special because you get that satisfying crunch with every bite, and it’s a delightful twist on regular shrimp dishes.

So, whether you’re planning a weekend gathering or just craving a little indulgence after work, these coconut shrimp will hit the spot.

And hey, they’re not just any shrimp; they’re a crunchy, tropical dream that can be paired with all sorts of dips or sides.

Honestly, who wouldn’t want to kick back with a plate of these beauties in front of the tv?

Get ready because we’re diving into the ingredients next! you'll soon be on your way to mastering this easy shrimp recipe that’ll have your friends raving.

So let’s grab those shrimp and start this delicious culinary adventure!

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's Gather Our Goodies!

Making the outback coconut shrimp recipe is a little adventure, and you'll want to make sure your pantry is stocked with the right stuff. Here’s the lowdown on what you’ll need.

Main Ingredients

For the crispy fried shrimp, grab these:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (keep the tails on for that restaurant vibe!)
• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or regular milk if that’s what you have)
• 1 cup (85g) sweetened shredded coconut (the star of the show!)
• 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs (this adds seriously crispy goodness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (a touch of color and flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the sweet chili dipping sauce, you'll need:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (don't skimp on this!)
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (only if you're feeling a bit spicy)

Seasoning Notes

Now, seasoning is where the magic happens. You’ve got your essential spices. Think garlic powder and paprika. They bring out the best in shrimp and coconut.

And if you’re ever in a jam, no worries! you can swap garlic powder for onion powder, or go for a bit of chili powder for that kick.

Trust me, you’ll never be short on flavor!

Equipment Essentials

Here’s what you need to put all this yumminess together:

• A deep frying pan or Dutch oven. (Seriously, this is where the magic happens.)
• A cooking thermometer—trust me, you want your oil at 350° F ( 175° C) for that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls for all your batter-making fun.
• A slotted spoon or a spider, because we need to retrieve our crispy gold from the hot oil!
• Paper towels for the inevitable messy but delicious aftermath.

Wrapping It Up

Getting great ingredients is key! quality shrimp really shines in a coconut shrimp appetizer like this. don't rush; take your time gathering everything.

It's part of the cooking experience. this recipe isn’t just a step-by-step; it’s a chance to embrace those tropical flavors in your own kitchen.

Once you've got everything ready, you're set to indulge in what could be one of the best shrimp recipes you've ever tried.

You’ll wow your friends at your next get-together with this homemade coconut shrimp dish. Honestly, it’s like bringing the beach right onto your plate!

Cooking Method – Crispy Outback Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

Alright, let’s get cookin’ with this outback coconut shrimp recipe ! we're about to recreate that beloved coconut shrimp appetizer from outback steakhouse, but with a homey twist.

Grab your apron, and let's dive into some tropical flavors!

Prep Steps

Essential mise en place : start by gathering your ingredients. you’ll need 1 pound of large shrimp , buttermilk , and both panko and sweetened shredded coconut .

Trust me, having everything ready makes the process smoother.

Time-saving organization tips : Set up your breading station . One bowl for flour, one for buttermilk, and one for your coconut-panko mix. This helps keep things tidy.

Safety reminders : When frying, keep a close eye on that oil temperature. You want it at 350° F ( 175° C) — too cool and your shrimp will soak up grease.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prep the Shrimp : Start by patting those shrimp dry. Season 'em up with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. A little seasoning never hurt anyone, right?

2. Set up breading station : scoop 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour in one bowl, pour 1/2 cup of buttermilk in the next, and mix 1 cup of shredded coconut with 1/2 cup of panko in the last.

   Easy peasy!

3. Bread the Shrimp : Dredge the shrimp in the flour, dip it in the buttermilk, and then press it into that glorious coconut-panko mix. Make sure it’s nice and coated.

4. Chill the Coated Shrimp : Lay those breaded beauties on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes . This helps the coating stick better, trust me!

5. Heat the Oil : In a frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Aim for that 350° F ( 175° C) sweet spot.

6. Fry the shrimp : carefully drop in a few shrimp at a time, frying for 3- 4 minutes on each side until they look golden brown and crunchy.

   Use a slotted spoon to fish them out and let them drain on paper towels.

7. Prepare the dipping sauce : mix that 1/2 cup of sweet chili sauce with 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice and a bit of sriracha in a small bowl.

   Boom, we have a tropical dipping sauce!

8. Serve : Plate those crispy shrimp and don’t forget that sweet chili sauce on the side. Grab some lime wedges for a zesty lift!

Pro Tips

• Keep the oil hot : If it’s cool, you’ll end up with greasy shrimp. No one wants that!
• Chill before frying : It’s all about that crunch!
• Experiment : Throw in different spices or adjust that dipping sauce to make it your own.

And there you have it! you'll have the best coconut shrimp on your block. serve 'em at parties or enjoy ‘em for a light dinner.

Seriously, with all those tropical flavors and that crunchy coating, you might just transport yourself to the beach with every bite!

Recipe Notes for Crispy Outback Coconut Shrimp

Alright, my friends! once you whip up this outback coconut shrimp recipe , you’re gonna wanna take some mental notes.

Trust me when i say, these little guys don’t just pack a tropical punch; they’ve also got a few quirks you want to remember!

Serving Suggestions 🍤

When serving this coconut shrimp appetizer , think beach party vibes! plating can be as simple or fancy as you like.

I love tossing my shrimp on a colorful platter, maybe some shredded lettuce underneath for a pop of color. add a bowl of that sweet chili dipping sauce right in the middle.

You can never go wrong with vibrant garnishes like lime wedges or fresh cilantro on top.

For sides, keep it light—maybe a crisp, refreshing garden salad or some tangy coleslaw. grab a cold brew or a quick tropical drink like a piña colada if you wanna feel the beach vibes without actually flying anywhere.

😄

Storage Tips 🥡

Now, let’s talk leftovers. if you have any—lucky you! always refrigerate them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay good for about 2-3 days.

For longer storage, freeze those beauties in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.

Seriously, that crunchy coating? it’ll still be poppin' if reheated properly!

When it’s time to reheat, don’t just pop them in the microwave—let's keep that crunch intact! instead, fry them in a pan or bake at 375° f ( 190° c) for about 10- 15 minutes until heated through.

Variations 🌱

Switch it up! If you’re looking for dietary adaptations, try a gluten-free option with gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. Want to use seasonal ingredients? Why not toss some pineapple pieces into that sweet chili sauce to get a fruity flair? Seriously, tropical flavors in your cooking? Yes, please!

Nutrition Basics 💪

Now, onto the nitty-gritty! honestly, each serving of these fried shrimp packs about 320 calories and a good chunk of protein—20g to be exact.

Plus, these crispy treats come with a fun blend of flavors that scream “healthy indulgence.” shrimp are low in calories and rich in nutrients.

Say hello to something that tastes indulgent without throwing your diet off the rails!

So there you have it! with these tips, you’ll be the star of any get-together with your homemade coconut shrimp.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with this quick seafood recipe ; mix it up, have fun, and maybe even invite some friends over for a shrimp feast! happy cooking! 🌊✨

$img_pin$

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to ensure my outback coconut shrimp recipe turns out crispy?

The key to crispy coconut shrimp lies in the temperature of the oil. Make sure it’s heated to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the shrimp. Use a thermometer for accuracy, and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy shrimp. A light dusting of flour before the buttermilk helps the coating adhere better, too!

Can I make the outback coconut shrimp recipe ahead of time?

What dips go well with coconut shrimp besides sweet chili sauce?

While sweet chili sauce is a classic, you can try serving your coconut shrimp with a zesty lime aioli or a tangy pineapple salsa for an extra tropical flair. A spicy mango chutney also pairs nicely if you’re feeling adventurous—just think of it as bringing a little bit of the Caribbean to your plate!

How should I store leftovers from my outback coconut shrimp recipe?

To keep the shrimp fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For crispiness, reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, rather than the microwave. This way, they’ll retain their crunch rather than turning soggy.

Can I make a gluten-free version of the outback coconut shrimp recipe?

Absolutely! Just substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko and switch to a gluten-free all-purpose flour. This way, you can enjoy all the crunch and flavor while keeping it gluten-free—perfect for those following a gluten-free diet!

What nutritional considerations should I keep in mind for this dish?

The outback coconut shrimp recipe is fairly balanced, offering a decent amount of protein from the shrimp while being rich in flavors. However, it does contain fats from frying. For a healthier option, you can opt for baking instead of frying. Always consider moderating servings and pair with a fresh garden salad to round it out!

Previous Recipe: Montes Original Family Recipe Tomato Sauce: A Heartfelt Italian Classic
Next Recipe: Easy & Refreshing Outback Steakhouse Blackberry Sangria Recipe